BOSTON – To launch the start of the fall season, Governor Baker declared September to be “Massachusetts Apple Month.”
The announcement coincides with New England Apple Day and is an effort to support the Commonwealth’s many apple growers. To celebrate the announcement, Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner John Lebeaux and local and agricultural officials went on tours of J.P. Sullivan & Co., Inc in Ayer, the region’s largest apple packing and processing facility, and Fairview Orchards in Groton.
“We are proud to recognize Massachusetts as a regional leader in apple processing and distribution and that our agricultural partners are working together to strengthen and expand the apple industry,” said Baker. “By declaring this month ‘Massachusetts Apple Month,’ we encourage everyone to support our vibrant agricultural industry in order to strengthen consumers’ awareness of Massachusetts grown produce.”
“Apples are an important part of our local food system, and we are thankful to have a strong industry here in Massachusetts, with producers and processors who are forward thinkers, using advanced environmental technology and conservation practices,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “I urge everyone to support Massachusetts’ apple growers this month by purchasing apples and other produce grown locally.”
Massachusetts boasts more than 140 varieties of apples grown in the state, including local favorites such as McIntosh, Cortland, Macoun, Gala and Honeycrisp. According to the United States Apple Association, apples contain no fat, cholesterol or sodium and are excellent sources of fiber, natural plant-based anti-oxidants and the mineral boron – which promotes healthy bones.
“We are honored to recognize Massachusetts apple growers who work hard to produce this nutritious and delicious. Our apple growers are committed to caring for the land, preserving open space, and implementing best management practices,” said DAR Commissioner Lebeaux. “I encourage residents to take advantage of the many great local varieties apple growers produce by visiting Massachusetts orchards, farm stands and farmers’ markets across the Commonwealth.”
With approximately 340 apple orchards in Massachusetts on over 4,000 acres of land, the Commonwealth yielded over 28 million pounds of apples worth $20 million in 2012.
Visit DAR’s farm finder to find information on Massachusetts apple orchards, pick-your-own apple farms, farmers’ markets, and roadside produce stands.
