Transitions: Coming Full Circle on a Third Generation Diversified Fruit Farm
Frecon Farms - Boyertown, Berks County
Friday, September 25
10:00am—3:00pm
$15 PASA Members, $25 all others. Lunch will be provided.
For three generations the Frecon family has maintained a deep connection to the countryside and community. After years expanding their orchards, focusing on export and wholesale distribution, they are getting back to their roots, selling and marketing directly from the farm. By downsizing the acreage in apples, they are reconditioning the soil, while keeping the healthiest trees. Diversification means adding value to existing products as well as planting different crops to take advantage of full season growing and offer customers a wider variety of produce and products. Take this opportunity to see behind the scenes of this vibrant enterprise. Tour the farm: see what they’re growing and why, find out how they are using pesticide reduction practices, hear how they are managing the generational shifts of farm management, and learn about the changing focus of the farm over time.
Frecon Farms has grown quality tree fruits in the rolling hills of Berks County for over 60 years. With new energy, the farm recently launched an e-commerce site to market gift baskets, started a pick-your own apples, pears, raspberries, and pumpkins program, and received a grant to create an on-farm event center for seasonal festivals and educational events. They are shifting their focus from wholesale to direct sales providing the finest fruits, produce, and gourmet foods to the local community.
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