New York Apple Orchard & Farm Stand Closing After 54 Years

The apple orchard and farm stand will close for good on November 30th.

After being in the apple and farm stand business for many years, the folks at Love Apple Farm, located at 1421 Route 9H in Ghent, have announced on Facebook that they are preparing to close for good. Their last day of operation will be Thursday, November 30th.

Columbia County Apple Orchard & Farm Stand Closing

Love Apple Farm shared the announcement on Facebook over the Thanksgiving weekend saying, "It’s finally time to make the bittersweet announcement that after 54 years, Love Apple Farm will be closing its doors."

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The farm, which was opened by Chris and Rande Lokenin in 1969 and sold to new owners Francis Greenburger and Isabelle Autones in 2012 has not only provided guests with great apples, cherries, blueberries, and more, but they are also home to a farm zoo and playground, a market, a cafe, a bakery, and a gift shop.

Love Apple Farm Says Goodbye

Owners of the farm shared a heartfelt goodbye saying,

"We would like to express our deep gratitude to our community, friends, and staff that have made Love Apple Farm the magical place that it is. We’ve enjoyed many seasons with you all and look forward to what the future holds. Our last day will be Thursday the 30th of November. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you ❤️🍎"

 

Why Are They Closing?

Owner Francis Greenburger told News 10 that the reason behind their deciding to close is a familiar one saying,

"The farm is closing because it has not been profitable for over ten years. Current costs for operating a small family apple farm and farm stand exceed revenue."

 

SEE ALSO: Columbia County, New York Restaurant Closes After 87 Years

News of the farm closing left many fans of the farm sad that they were closing. Hundreds of folks left well wishes along with memories of spending time at the farm on their Facebook page saying things like...

"Oh no! I’m so, sorry to hear this. We have some fun memories from there."

 

"Have loved this place since I moved to the area on 1985. It has always been so innovative and fun!. Such a loss."

 

"I have so many happy memories of picking fruit there with my children."

What's Next for the Farm Stand?

Future plans for the property include the main house being rented as a living space and the farm kitchen being used to support an area food packing business. Owners are hopeful that some other local businesses might be interested in using the farm stand for a restaurant, or retail space.