6 Alabama Farms Bringing Fresh Farm Produce to Birmingham through CSA Programs
A wonderful array of fresh greens, peas, onions, berries, and other springtime favorites is set to blitz the culinary scene in Birmingham. With warmer temperatures hinting at the arrival of spring, Alabama farms are offering a variety of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs that allow local residents to receive fresh farm produce directly to their homes every week. There are six particular CSAs near Birmingham that stand out for their offerings and sustainable farming practices.
Stone Hollow Farmstead
Stone Hollow Farmstead, a family enterprise located just outside Birmingham in Harpersville, is an idyllic haven, cultivating an immense variety, from cut flowers and herbs to farm-crafted skincare and culinary goods. “Our farm is a haven for seasonal living,” says co-owner Alexandra Stone. In addition to fresh produce, the Stone Hollow CSA includes rainbow eggs from the farm, spring herbs, and delicious artisan breads from Hinkel’s Bakery. Participants also have the option to add a stunning flower bouquet to their weekly Harvest Box.
Mountain Sun Farm
Located in Mentone, Mountain Sun Farm is a certified organic family farm owned by Liz and Brian Simpson. Striving for ecological diversity and soil quality, this farm offers fresh organic produce straight from their land to CSA members. From strawberries to watermelons to leafy greens, the weekly assortment provided is fresh, nutrient-rich, and most importantly, sustainably and organically grown. Several pickup locations around Birmingham are also offered in addition to the full-season CSA programs.
MannaMarket
MannaMarket is an agriculture co-op providing organic produce in Alabama for over twenty years. Partnered with Will’s Place, a nonprofit agricultural organization that offers organic farming training to people with special needs, MannaMarket sources its nutrient-rich produce boxes which even include quail eggs occasionally.
Boozer Farms
A trip to the farms with her father and visits to fruit farms as a kid inspired Taylor Boozer Hatchett to eventually helm Boozer Farms in Thorsby, Alabama. The farm provides fresh produce including fruits, veggies and greens to local restaurants, farmer’s markets, and the farm’s CSA program attendees.
Boyd Harvest Farm
Owned by Trent Boyd, Boyd Harvest Farm in Cullman, Alabama offers customers farm-fresh fruits and vegetables which several popular Birmingham restaurants swear by. Their CSA program offers farm box subscriptions for spring and summer seasons, with the option to select from a full or half-box subscription.
Hepzibah Farms
At Hepzibah Farms, flowers are the order of the day. With a Flower Club subscription, customers can receive fresh blooms right at their doorstep every week or month. In addition to the flower CSA, Hepzibah Farms also has a booth at the local Pepper Place Market for those who wish for extra flowers for special occasions.
Each of these CSA programs intends to connect locals with nature by bringing the farm to the table and supporting Alabama’s rich agricultural heritage. They emphasize sustainable farming practices and ensuring fresh, local produce. As spring commences in Birmingham, residents can look forward to their weekly bounty of fresh farm goods.
