Colorado's Western Slope is famous for the fruit that’s grown there. Cherries, apples, and peaches are a staple of farmers' markets.
But Colorado is also famous for wild, unpredictable weather. And this past April, a
spring freeze devastated many of the western slopes' fruit orchards. Some growers saw total losses of this year's crops.
We wanted to know how fruit growers survive, and keep their farmstands stocked, after a devastating freeze like that one.
So, we reached out to Harrison Topp to learn more. He’s a co-owner of
Topp Fruits – a family farm that grows peaches, apples and cherries in Paonia and Hotchkiss. That April 17 freeze wiped out their entire crop. But the season won’t be a total loss, thanks to a partnership with another farm,
Rancho Durazno, in Palisade.
He spoke with Erin O’Toole about how this unusual relationship will allow both operations to still have a presence at farm stands this summer, despite the devastation to his crops.
Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit
KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us:
NOCO@KUNC.org Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks!
Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.
What is In The NoCo?
KUNC's In The NoCo is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.