Factors influencing the decision to join a community supported agriculture (CSA) farm

ABSTRACT Community support agriculture (CSA) is a form of direct marketing of agricultural products that can be an important facet of a more sustainable, locally based food system. This study estimates the probability of becoming a CSA member using a binomial logit regression model. Data were collected through phone interviews with members, ex-members, and non-members of three CSA farms in Vermont. Results indicate that price, productivity shifters, consumer beliefs, and awareness impact the probability of membership. Suggestions for target marketing to increase CSA membership are included.