NY apple harvest peaks this weekend

Apple growers are at the peak of one of the best harvests on record, entering into the three-day Columbus Day Weekend which is the biggest apple-picking weekend of the year.

Jim Allen, president of the New York Apple Association, said, 'We need mother nature to help us out. Good weather means big crowds.'

Meanwhile, growers are reporting an excellent and larger crop in most growing regions. Growers originally estimated that the crop would come at about 25 million bushels, which translates to more than three billion apples, every one of which is hand.

A complete directory of the states orchards, as well as variety info, recipes and health facts can be found online at www.nyapplecountry.com

Growers will also be pressing quality batches of cider throughout the fall. New York has nearly 200 cider producers throughout the state. Click on www.nycider.com for a directory of producers.

Apple consumption is on the rise in New York and around the U.S. due to publicity from university research proving that apples can help fight Breast Cancer, prevent Alzheimer's disease, strengthen bones and even help dieters lose weight.

New York's 695 apple orchards produce an average of 25 million bushels of apples every year on 45,000 acres.

The New York Apple Association, based in Fishers, is the nonprofit agricultural trade association representing the commercial apple growers in New York.

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