New Jersey farms look ahead to holiday season after challenging fall
"There's no doubt that this year has been a challenging year for New Jersey agriculture," said Rebekah Alstede-Modery, of Alstede Farms.
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As pumpkin season comes to a close, New Jersey farms are looking ahead to the busy holiday season after a difficult year marked by weather-related challenges.
At Alstede Farms in Chester, a late-season freeze wiped out nearly 70% of the apple crop, then rainy weekends throughout September limited crowds.
"There's no doubt that this year has been a challenging year for New Jersey agriculture," said Rebekah Alstede-Modery, of Alstede Farms.
Despite the setbacks, the farm is preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas activities.
Thousands of pies are expected to be sold during Thanksgiving week, and the farm is gearing up for its second season of cut-your-own Christmas trees.
The farm is also extending its growing season with lettuce harvested from tunnels through the winter months.
While farmers continue to recover from this year's losses, Alstede-Modery says community support remains critical.
"It's definitely the time to support your local farmers this year," she said.
