SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The beginning of fall usually means it’s apple-picking season in Central New York. But as the coronavirus continues to spread, orchards have had to make a few adjustments to their operations this year. Cynthia Haskins, the president of the New York Apple Association, said owners are ensuring safety in a variety of different ways, including some orchards offering apple alternatives.
“So, just being a little bit more structured, creating directional signs, so there’s not crossover between consumers. Some of our orchards are making apples already picked available, it depends on the operation,” Haskins said.
Many orchards have also opted to limit their capacity and close down popular attractions for kids, such as tractor rides and playgrounds, so as to maintain proper social distancing. Nevertheless, Haskins said the apple-picking spirit remains as strong as ever for Central New Yorkers.
“We’ve had a lot of stories of people out enjoying it,” Haskins said. “It’s just always an event that everybody looks forward to each year.”
While Haskins did not have any concrete numbers in front of her, she said that business has been good so far for the apple orchards. If this fall has made anything clear, it’s that New Yorkers love their apples.
