Reading 'Farms of Tomorrow Revisited' felt like sitting down with a wise farmer and a passionate journalist over a cup of coffee. The book’s blend of memoir, philosophy, and practical advice makes it a must-read for anyone curious about CSA.
What struck me most was Trauger Groh’s perspective. His European sensibility shines through—especially his emphasis on farming as a spiritual practice rather than just a business. His rule about 'not working too many hours' resonated deeply. It’s not laziness; it’s about leaving room for observation and reflection, something industrial agriculture often forgets.
The essays on land ownership and retirement plans for farmers were eye-opening. I’d never considered how CSA models could challenge the idea of farmland as a commodity. The updated sections showing how early CSAs evolved over time added a layer of realism—no utopia is without its struggles.
Steven McFadden’s contributions ground the book in real-world examples. The sample budgets and marketing materials in the appendix are gold for anyone actually starting a CSA. I found myself taking notes for my own backyard garden!
This isn’t just theory—it’s a conversation starter. After reading, I caught myself debating with friends: Should our local CSA include meat? How do we fairly share risks? The book doesn’t give easy answers but equips you to ask better questions.