April 1 is the deadline for those interested in supporting local agriculture to buy Community Supported Agriculture shares at Rippling Waters Farm in Standish.

Purchasing one or more shares early in the season at a discount provides the farm with start-up capital to buy seeds, seedlings, planting materials and fuel for the greenhouses. This share allows buyers to get discounts on plants, produce, or garden supplies any time during the year at the farm or participating farmers’ markets.

Two types of share memberships are available. A Rippling Waters regular membership entitles buyers to a 10 percent discount. A $90 share would get $100 worth of products per share, a $180 share earns $200 worth of products, and a $270 share earns $300 worth of products. A regular share acts as a credit line to buy organic produce, plants or supplies.

A traditional membership allows buyers a bag of produce each week, and costs $325 per half-share or $525 for a full share.

As a bonus, share members are invited to take part in life on the farm through events such as volunteer workdays, educational workshops and potlucks. A newsletter published three times a year keeps you informed about farm happenings, delicious upcoming crops and tasty recipes.

We also plan to send out timely e-mail reminders to keep members better informed regarding crop availability and upcoming farm events. The public is also invited to come to the farm for a visit any time during the growing season.

Community Supported Agriculture shares can be picked up at Rippling Waters Farm in Standish or at any of the following farmers’ markets: Monument Square in Portland, Deering Oaks Park in Portland, Naples or Bridgton.

Participation also helps to underwrite Rippling Waters’ commitment to the greater community by providing fresh, organic food for those who are served by the local emergency food system.

For a Community Supported Agriculture share form, please visit www.ripplingwaters.org and click on the “Support Us” tab. This form can be printed and mail it back with a check to the following mailing address: Rippling Waters Farm, 55 River Road, Steep Falls, ME 04085.

Forms are also available by calling 642-5161. Please include an e-mail address, because the farm will be sending short announcements when new products, produce, and plants become available.