Announcing the end of Big River Farms' CSA program after a 16-year run:
We are writing to let you know that our CSA will no longer be a part of Big River Farms programming starting next year (2023). For 16 years, Big River Farms (BRF), located in Marine on St. Croix, MN has operated an aggregated CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. Our CSA has served as a guaranteed market outlet for beginning farmers in our business incubator education and training program. May of you have been members and supporters of our CSA for years - thank you!
After intentional conversation with our farmers and staff, The Food Group has made the decision that we will no longer be operating a CSA as part of Big River Farms. We thank you for your support and dedication to building up local farmers and our local food system. We are proud of the amazingly nutritious, organic, locally grown produce that has been distributed to many community members throughout the Marine on St. Croix, Stillwater, and greater Twin Cities regions during this time. We remain committed to growing farmers and growing food.
Many BRF farmers have voiced that they would like more support cultivating and strengthening their independent businesses and markets. This ongoing developmental support ensures farmers are successful both during and after their time at our farm. To do this, we are moving away from having our own aggregated CSA toward providing more direct market support for farmers.
We are incredibly grateful for the many years of support from CSA members and drop site hosts like you, packing volunteers, media partners, fruit share farmers, external farmers that we’ve sourced produce from, and farm staff who have made it all possible.
Although we will not be operating the BRF aggregated CSA anymore, there are still several ways you can directly support our farmers. In 2023, you can support BRF farmers by buying from them directly, visiting them at local farmers markets, or signing up to become members of their independent CSA programs.
We encourage you to learn more by visiting: thefoodgroupmn.org/farmers/meet-our-farmers/
Thank you again and please let us know if you have any questions. For additional details, or to discuss future wholesale buying opportunities, please contact Big River Farms Market Specialist Matt Frank at mfrank@thefoodgroupmn.org or 651-433-3676.
