Producing locally grown, organic produce and meat isn’t all magic.

Magic Beanstalk, a community supported agricultural project, is a partnership between area producers and consumers whose primary goal is to provide foods produced using sustainable forms of agriculture.

The program works though “shares.” At the beginning of the season, Magic Beanstalk members can purchase a share. For the price of that share, local producers provide consumers with fresh produce weekly.

“It’s healthier for the local economy,” said Marilyn Anderson, coordinator for Magic Beanstalk.

Glenda Storms-Bice, promoter for Magic Beanstalk, said a share is a member’s way of “paying in advance to get the best produce in central Iowa once a week.”

The shareholder receives produce once a week, but they also share the risk with the producer, Storms-Bice said.

Anderson said the producers bring to the sharing site whatever is ready that week, so it all “depends on how the garden grows.”

Members of Magic Beanstalk have different types of shares available to them, Anderson said. The vegetable share consists of several different fresh vegetables available on a weekly basis.

A greens share consists of 10 additional bunches of greens. The fruit share provides fresh fruits such as strawberries, apples and raspberries throughout the season.

New to the program this year is the organic meat share. The share provides organic certified meats, including chicken, beef and turkey.

Working shares allow customers to volunteer work in exchange for a discounted share.

In addition to the six Magic Beanstalk growers, nine other suppliers visit the pick-up site, bringing products such as fresh bread and honey.

Magic Beanstalk strives to increase consumer awareness about where and how their food was grown. Anderson said the products are also fresher because they have not been shipped far.

“The nice thing about Magic Beanstalk produce is it’s grown locally and it’s picked the day you get it,” Anderson said.

All growers for Magic Beanstalk use sustainable methods in growing their products, and some use organic methods as well. No pesticides or harmful chemicals are used.

Sharon Thompson, producer of beef and pork, said the program encourages sustainable agriculture practices.

Thompson said Magic Beanstalk has benefited her as a food producer.

“They have helped me in making contacts with people who are looking for what we produce,” Thompson said.

Those interested in becoming a part of Magic Beanstalk should contact Marilyn Anderson at (515) 388-5501.