Deck Student Starts Sri Lankan CSA

We received wonderful news the other day that our former farm student, Jaan Bogodage, has started a CSA market in Sri Lanka. He modeled the market after his experiences studying in America with Deck Family Farm and Dripping Springs Garden, a farm in Arkansas.

Jaan had taken a 12-month leave of absense from his job as an agricultural extension officer in Sri Lanka. During that time he learned farming and marketing from two American farms through the Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture organization.

Jaan Bogodage while working at Deck Family Farm last year.

"We are so proud of Jaan and impressed - although it isn't surprising after getting to know him, " said Christine Deck. "The education program at Deck Family Farm is almost always hosting students from other countries who are eager to learn farming methods that they can take home and teach others. It is a passion for us and I am grateful to see what Jaan has done!"

I am reprinting his announcement here along with a selection of photos taken at the initial opening day. -LAURA WAYTE

Establishment of the Sarusara Products Market (CSA Pilot Project)

by Jaan Bogodage

I successfully initiated and launched the සරුසාර නිෂ්පාදන Sarusara Products Market, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)–based pilot project, with financial support from the SPRIG (Sustainable Projects for Regeneration, Innovation & Growth) program implemented by MESA (Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture), USA.

The market was officially launched on Sunday, November 23, at Kandapuhulpola, Welimada.

This initiative was designed to directly connect farmers and consumers through the CSA model, where consumers purchase a share of the harvest in advance and receive fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, value-added food products, and other agricultural produce. Through this approach, I aimed to ensure stable income for farmers, reduce economic risk, and promote trust-based relationships between producers and consumers. The project also encourages environmentally friendly farming practices, strengthens the local economy, enhances food security, and fosters strong community engagement.

Jaan on opening day!

The project was implemented as a pilot program, engaging farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs from Kandapuhulpola village in the Welimada Divisional Secretariat Division, with plans to operate the market every weekend. By emphasizing proper health and safety standards and minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers, the initiative focuses on delivering fresh, safe, and sustainably produced agricultural products under the Sarusara brand.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chief Incumbent of Vangiyakumbura Temple, representatives from the Hadabima Authority of Sri Lanka, local government officials, the Officer-in-Charge of the Vangiyakumbura Police Station, public health and agricultural officers, members of the Kandapuhulpola Farmers’ Organization, the Dehimalegolla Sarusara Agricultural Producers’ Collective, and community members, reflecting strong institutional and grassroots support.

I extend my sincere appreciation to MESA Program and its Executive Director, Ms. Lauren Augusta, for their guidance and financial assistance, which were instrumental in the successful establishment of this project.

Thank you, Mark Cain, Dripping Springs Garden and Deck Family Farm for the valuable lessons you shared. Your guidance has truly inspired me and will continue to shape my journey ahead.