Kiss the Cow Farm Whole Diet CSA: Frequently Asked Questions
Potential Member Questions
How Does the Whole Diet CSA Work?
Members sign up for a CSA (community supported agriculture) membership with a flat fee payable in a single payment or multiple installments. In exchange, you will receive your choice of dozens of locally produced dairy, meat, poultry, vegetable and bakery products for 17 weeks from June through September. You will place your order through our convenient online store each week to select only the products you want. We will bag and deliver them to a pickup location of your choice.
How Do I Sign Up?!
It’s easy! Click here to get started. Membership spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
What Produce is Available?
You can expect core spring, summer and fall veggies as they become available: greens, tomatoes, onions, cukes, kale, peppers, etc. These are grown by our friends at Heartwood Farm. Note: if you are seriously into veggies, you may want to consider joining their Summer Vegetable CSA, which offers far more produce and variety then we will carry. (More info here).
Are Your Products Organic?
Kiss the Cow Farm is certified organic, and so are some of our partner farms and producers. However, not all food items are organic.
Can I Really Order Only What I Want?
Yes! However, we reserve the right to limit order quantities on specific items if availability is limited. In order to allow us time to prepare your specific items, orders need to be placed by 7:00am the morning of your pick-up.
May We Visit the Farm?
Absolutely! Please come and visit us!!!!!!. The only way you can ever really know where and how your food is raised is to see for yourselves. (Besides, the calves are very cute).
Can We Help Out on the Farm?
Yes! We encourage you to come to the farm at least once during the CSA season to help us fill orders. This is generally a 1-2 hour commitment. Why do we ask you to do this? Because everyone should visit and tour the farm; because most people want a connection to the farm and land where their food comes from; because we want to get to know you; and because your CSA membership is more than milk or potatoes or ice cream. It's about the entire experience. It's about the relationship between the land, and those of us that live off the land. (Please email us to schedule a time to come help with orders, and we'll be happy to host you.)
Which Size Share Should I Get?
If you are new to the CSA, we recommend getting the small share. The majority of our customers choose this size. However, if you are feeding a family or lots of friends, we recommend a larger share. You can always add more money to your account later if you need to, so there's no need to worry if you run out of CSA credit. (However, please note that cost discounts are only available during the initial sign-up period.)
Can I Send Someone Else to Pick Up My Stuff If I Can't Be There?
Sure! (If you trust them not to eat your goodies!)
Where Do I Send Payment?
You can pay by credit card or PayPal when you register online, or you can send us a check (Made out to Kiss the Cow Farm) to:
992 Walker Hill Road
South Royalton, VT 05068
How Do You Communicate With Us?
Email is our primary method of communication for the CSA. You can always reach us at kissthecowfarm@gmail.com
Where and When Are the Pick Ups?
Are There Any Benefits to Picking Up at the Farm Store?
Yes. If you live nearby it may simply be more convenient. There is no bagging and delivery fee if you pick up at the Farm Store. The Farm Store also has food and goodies that may not be available for remote pick ups. And of course, you get to chat with the farmers or if you don't want to talk with them you can always visit the cute calves!
Can I Add Money To My Account Later On?
Of course! You can add any amount at any time. However, you will only get the discount for your initial deposit amount.
What If I Don't See an Item Available That I Want?
We will not include every single food item in your weekly email. For example, we may only list 2-3 flavors of ice cream on a given week. If you'd like a flavor not listed that week, send us a note and we will try to accommodate your wishes.
How Do I Know My Account Balance?
You can see your balance anytime online by logging into your CSA account. (Note: we need to manually add farm store pickups to your account so balances will be delayed).
I'm Not Going to be Around During the Holidays. Is My Account Still Charged?
Nope. You are only charged for the items you order. Ours is a very flexible program. If you're going to be away, simply don't order anything that week. No problem at all.
How Do I Pick Up My Share?
It's as easy as pie. Show up during the appointed time on the day of the pick-up! We'll have your goodies all bagged and ready for you. Please note that many products require refrigeration or need to be kept frozen.
If you elect to pick up your food from the Farm Store, you may stop in anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You'll write down the items you get on your personal CSA transaction page in the 3-ring binder at the register. We'll occasionally add these purchases to your balance.
If I Cannot Make a Pick Up, What Are My Options?
You can either wait until the following week or stop by our adorable Farm Store (in Barnard) to get your items. On the Farm Store's check out binder, simply write your name, the items you're getting, the total, and that you're a CSA member. We'll add this to your account.
What If I Miss a Pick Up?
We recognize that we all forget sometimes or something unexpected crops up. Everyone gets a one-time grace. Additional missed pick-ups will be brought back to the farm and you will be charged a 25% restocking fee.
Can I Join After the CSA Has Already Started?
Yes -if we still have room. (We really do only have a limited number of memberships this season based on the amount of food we have available and logistical considerations). We may pro-rate your membership fee depending on your situation.
Does Kiss the Cow Farm Produce All This Food?
Goodness, no! Our focus is on dairy and pastured poultry. The rest of the products come from friends and other local farms and small producers, including:
In Case of Inclement Weather on Pick Up Day, What Do I Do?
We'll send you an email to let you know if we are unable to deliver (due to snow, ice or other) and give you a rescheduled time.
How Does the Whole Diet CSA Work?
Members sign up for a CSA (community supported agriculture) membership with a flat fee payable in a single payment or multiple installments. In exchange, you will receive your choice of dozens of locally produced dairy, meat, poultry, vegetable and bakery products for 17 weeks from June through September. You will place your order through our convenient online store each week to select only the products you want. We will bag and deliver them to a pickup location of your choice.
How Do I Sign Up?!
It’s easy! Click here to get started. Membership spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
What Produce is Available?
You can expect core spring, summer and fall veggies as they become available: greens, tomatoes, onions, cukes, kale, peppers, etc. These are grown by our friends at Heartwood Farm. Note: if you are seriously into veggies, you may want to consider joining their Summer Vegetable CSA, which offers far more produce and variety then we will carry. (More info here).
Are Your Products Organic?
Kiss the Cow Farm is certified organic, and so are some of our partner farms and producers. However, not all food items are organic.
Can I Really Order Only What I Want?
Yes! However, we reserve the right to limit order quantities on specific items if availability is limited. In order to allow us time to prepare your specific items, orders need to be placed by 7:00am the morning of your pick-up.
May We Visit the Farm?
Absolutely! Please come and visit us!!!!!!. The only way you can ever really know where and how your food is raised is to see for yourselves. (Besides, the calves are very cute).
Can We Help Out on the Farm?
Yes! We encourage you to come to the farm at least once during the CSA season to help us fill orders. This is generally a 1-2 hour commitment. Why do we ask you to do this? Because everyone should visit and tour the farm; because most people want a connection to the farm and land where their food comes from; because we want to get to know you; and because your CSA membership is more than milk or potatoes or ice cream. It's about the entire experience. It's about the relationship between the land, and those of us that live off the land. (Please email us to schedule a time to come help with orders, and we'll be happy to host you.)
Which Size Share Should I Get?
If you are new to the CSA, we recommend getting the small share. The majority of our customers choose this size. However, if you are feeding a family or lots of friends, we recommend a larger share. You can always add more money to your account later if you need to, so there's no need to worry if you run out of CSA credit. (However, please note that cost discounts are only available during the initial sign-up period.)
Can I Send Someone Else to Pick Up My Stuff If I Can't Be There?
Sure! (If you trust them not to eat your goodies!)
Where Do I Send Payment?
You can pay by credit card or PayPal when you register online, or you can send us a check (Made out to Kiss the Cow Farm) to:
992 Walker Hill Road
South Royalton, VT 05068
How Do You Communicate With Us?
Email is our primary method of communication for the CSA. You can always reach us at kissthecowfarm@gmail.com
Where and When Are the Pick Ups?
- Woodstock, at the Woodstock on the Green Farmers' Market, Wednesdays 3:00-6:00
- Bethel, at the Bandstand on Church Street, Fridays 2:00-2:45
- South Royalton, at the Vermont Law School, Fridays 3:00-4:00
- Norwich, at the Norwich Farmers' Market, Saturdays 9:00-1:00
- Waitsfield, at the Waitsfield Farmers' Market, Saturdays 9:00-1:00
- Barnard, at the Kiss the Cow Farm Store 24/7
Are There Any Benefits to Picking Up at the Farm Store?
Yes. If you live nearby it may simply be more convenient. There is no bagging and delivery fee if you pick up at the Farm Store. The Farm Store also has food and goodies that may not be available for remote pick ups. And of course, you get to chat with the farmers or if you don't want to talk with them you can always visit the cute calves!
Can I Add Money To My Account Later On?
Of course! You can add any amount at any time. However, you will only get the discount for your initial deposit amount.
What If I Don't See an Item Available That I Want?
We will not include every single food item in your weekly email. For example, we may only list 2-3 flavors of ice cream on a given week. If you'd like a flavor not listed that week, send us a note and we will try to accommodate your wishes.
How Do I Know My Account Balance?
You can see your balance anytime online by logging into your CSA account. (Note: we need to manually add farm store pickups to your account so balances will be delayed).
I'm Not Going to be Around During the Holidays. Is My Account Still Charged?
Nope. You are only charged for the items you order. Ours is a very flexible program. If you're going to be away, simply don't order anything that week. No problem at all.
How Do I Pick Up My Share?
It's as easy as pie. Show up during the appointed time on the day of the pick-up! We'll have your goodies all bagged and ready for you. Please note that many products require refrigeration or need to be kept frozen.
If you elect to pick up your food from the Farm Store, you may stop in anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You'll write down the items you get on your personal CSA transaction page in the 3-ring binder at the register. We'll occasionally add these purchases to your balance.
If I Cannot Make a Pick Up, What Are My Options?
You can either wait until the following week or stop by our adorable Farm Store (in Barnard) to get your items. On the Farm Store's check out binder, simply write your name, the items you're getting, the total, and that you're a CSA member. We'll add this to your account.
What If I Miss a Pick Up?
We recognize that we all forget sometimes or something unexpected crops up. Everyone gets a one-time grace. Additional missed pick-ups will be brought back to the farm and you will be charged a 25% restocking fee.
Can I Join After the CSA Has Already Started?
Yes -if we still have room. (We really do only have a limited number of memberships this season based on the amount of food we have available and logistical considerations). We may pro-rate your membership fee depending on your situation.
Does Kiss the Cow Farm Produce All This Food?
Goodness, no! Our focus is on dairy and pastured poultry. The rest of the products come from friends and other local farms and small producers, including:
- Eastman Farm - beef, pork
- Heartwood Farm - vegetables
- Rogers Farmstead - yogurt
- Mountain Home Farm - butter, ricotta cheese
- Free Verse Farm - herbal teas, culinary offerings, and herbal remedies & body care products
- Plymouth Cheese Co. - cheese
- Carin's Kombucha - yes, you guessed it: kombucha
- Vermont Bean Crafters - veggie burgers, hummus
- Big Picture Farm - goat's milk caramels
- Etc., etc, etc.....
In Case of Inclement Weather on Pick Up Day, What Do I Do?
We'll send you an email to let you know if we are unable to deliver (due to snow, ice or other) and give you a rescheduled time.
Member FAQs
How Do I Order?
Members have access to place custom orders via our convenient online store. When certain products are in high demand or are available in limited quantities, we may impose a maximum order quantity until supplies are replenished
Can I Change My Pickup Location?
Of course! You'll have the option to select your pick-up location every time you place an order. Want to pick up this week in Woodstock, but next week at the Farm Store in Barnard? You got it! Just another way our membership program is customized for you and easy to use
Is There a Minimum Order I must Place Each Time?
No. Order only what you want
When Does My Membership Expire?
Your membership expires when your current CSA membership season ends (the last week of September)
How Do I Renew My Membership?
We'll send you email reminders when your membership is expiring so you can renew by purchasing the next season's share of your choice
What Happens If I Don't Use Up All My Available Credit?
You are responsible for using any available credits by the end of the delivery season. Credit cannot be carried over to the next season. No refunds are available. However, given all the tempting food choices you probably won’t have this issue!
What Happens When I Go on Vacation?
Nothing. Go have fun!
What Happens If I Move?
We’ll miss you! We will terminate your account on your moving date and no further payments will be charged to your account. No refunds will be issued due to a move
How Do I Cancel My Membership?
What? Are you crazy? If you decide that a Kiss the Cow Farm membership is not for you, simply don’t order any more items. No further payments will be charged to your account. Because the membership program is made sustainable by the total annual membership fee, we cannot offer mid-season refunds
Is Meat Included in My Membership?
Yup. We offer Eastman Farm ground beef and bacon as well as other cuts occasionally. Plus local lamb and even Vermont salmon (ask and we'll tell you the story!). Of course Kiss the Cow chicken, ducks, turkeys and veal are available too
Are Eggs Included in My Membership?
Yes. These are our own Kiss the Cow Farm eggs
How Do I Order?
Members have access to place custom orders via our convenient online store. When certain products are in high demand or are available in limited quantities, we may impose a maximum order quantity until supplies are replenished
Can I Change My Pickup Location?
Of course! You'll have the option to select your pick-up location every time you place an order. Want to pick up this week in Woodstock, but next week at the Farm Store in Barnard? You got it! Just another way our membership program is customized for you and easy to use
Is There a Minimum Order I must Place Each Time?
No. Order only what you want
When Does My Membership Expire?
Your membership expires when your current CSA membership season ends (the last week of September)
How Do I Renew My Membership?
We'll send you email reminders when your membership is expiring so you can renew by purchasing the next season's share of your choice
What Happens If I Don't Use Up All My Available Credit?
You are responsible for using any available credits by the end of the delivery season. Credit cannot be carried over to the next season. No refunds are available. However, given all the tempting food choices you probably won’t have this issue!
What Happens When I Go on Vacation?
Nothing. Go have fun!
What Happens If I Move?
We’ll miss you! We will terminate your account on your moving date and no further payments will be charged to your account. No refunds will be issued due to a move
How Do I Cancel My Membership?
What? Are you crazy? If you decide that a Kiss the Cow Farm membership is not for you, simply don’t order any more items. No further payments will be charged to your account. Because the membership program is made sustainable by the total annual membership fee, we cannot offer mid-season refunds
Is Meat Included in My Membership?
Yup. We offer Eastman Farm ground beef and bacon as well as other cuts occasionally. Plus local lamb and even Vermont salmon (ask and we'll tell you the story!). Of course Kiss the Cow chicken, ducks, turkeys and veal are available too
Are Eggs Included in My Membership?
Yes. These are our own Kiss the Cow Farm eggs