Whatley, Booker T.
1915-2005 · Contribution: 1970-1988
Agricultural Scientist
Developed the pick-your-own (U-Pick) farming model and the Clientele Membership Club, the direct-marketing system that became the template for modern Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

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Quick facts
- Born
- 1915
- Active since
- 1970
- Category
- Agriculture & Food
- Best known for
- Pioneered the CSA modelClientele Membership ClubPick-your-own farming
Impact on the world
Whatley invented the direct-marketing framework that became modern CSA, giving small farmers a way to survive against industrial agriculture. He designed it deliberately as a tool for Black economic self-reliance.
Sources
- Smithsonian Magazine
2 more sources and references are available to members.
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