Long Island farmers face weather challenges as fall season begins
Excessive rain, spring freezes and summer storms have created obstacles for farms during one of their busiest times of the year.
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As fall activities such as pumpkin picking and apple picking ramp up across Long Island, farmers are dealing with a series of weather-related challenges that are affecting their businesses.
"We're just hoping the weather holds up. It's been a lot of challenges this year," said Erick Lewin, co-owner of Lewin Farms in Calverton. "Farmers are all banking on good weather for the busy weekends to make ends meet."
According to Lewin, the challenges began with April Freezes that damaged many peach and apple crops. Summer storms later knocked down some trees, adding to the difficulties. Now, farmers are dealing with excessive rainfall.
"Every week seems like we get two, three or more inches of rain," Lewin said.
While some crops have been negatively impacted by the wet conditions, Lewin said others are performing well. He said the pumpkins appear to be thriving.
The biggest concern, however, is the impact rain can have on visitor turnout during the busiest weekends of the year. Farm businesses often depend on strong crowds during the fall season, and poor weather can discourage people from making the trip.
"If it's a little drizzle, you'll still get some people," Lewin said. "But if it's heavy downpour then nobody's going to make a big trip out if they're coming from far away, especially."
Another storm is expected on Long Island on Sunday, creating additional uncertainty for farmers heading into the weekend.
