By Jennifer Culbert, MS, RD, LDN

With all of this rain, it’s hard to believe summer could really be just around the corner.  I don’t know about you, but I am definitely ready for some warmer temperatures.  Warmer weather in New England makes me think of farmers markets, CSAs, and of course lots of local produce. Whether it is fresh corn on the cob, green beans, juicy strawberries, or colorful heirloom tomatoes, everything just tastes better when picked ripe and eaten at its peak.

At Boston University we are fortunate to have some opportunities to shop local right here on campus. The GSU Plaza is home to both a CSA pick-up from Wards Berry Farm and a farmers market every Thursday from 11a-3pm. Wards Berry Farm still has some summer and early fall shares available, but act quickly because the season begins today (June 8^th)! If a season share is not for you, farmers market boxes can be ordered week to week as well. The farmers market not only has farm fresh produce picked that morning, but also a variety of locally crafted goods and prepared foods including things like bread, salsa, pickles and even soap.  To find out more about Wards Berry Farm CSA, click here.

There are many other farmers markets and CSAs off campus too, all throughout Massachusetts.  For more information on where to pick up local produce as well as other information on local agriculture opportunities such as as “pick your own” farms, honey producers, and maple sugar houses, click here.

Did you know it’s also possible to sign up for fish and meat shares? Find out how you can grab fresh fish from Cape Ann Fresh Catch and organic meat from Walden Local Meat Co.

Here in Boston, we are also lucky to have a large public indoor market that sells seasonal produce and freshly prepared specialty foods from 40 local vendors. You will find items like fresh produce, eggs, milk, cheese fish, flowers, and baked goods.