Community supported fishery (CSF) programs, also known as seafood co-ops are alternative ways to buy and sell seafood.
CSF programs are co-operative buying agreements where members of a community bargain with local fishermen to buy fish directly for a predetermined length of time.
CSF members (shareholders) pay a fee in advance, and in turn receive shares of seafood caught during the season.
Consumers benefit by getting top quality fresh seafood at below market prices. Fishermen benefit from better pricing, reliable markets and a stable cashflow.