Portland-area farm known for apple picking permanently closes
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Ahead of apple-picking season, a Portland-area farm has said farewell to guests for good.
In a post shared on Sunday, the long-running Oregon Heritage Farms announced fall 2024 was its last in business. There is no singular reason behind the closure, according to owners.
“For 28 years, from August through the second weekend in November, Oregon Heritage Farms has been fortunate enough to open our small apple stand in Scholls to share our love of farming, apples, and family,” the farm wrote on Instagram. “We loved seeing generations form fall traditions, watching kids enjoy a freshly baked apple cider donut, and hearing how much everyone loves apples.”
The family-owned business is hosting a barn sale on Friday, Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Owners also urged customers to visit other local farms.
Smith Berry Barn and Hoffman Farms are both a short commute away from the spot on 22801 SW Scholls Ferry Rd.
Although fall has yet to commence, Smith Berry Barn is already offering some early-season apples. The business grows more than 20 types of apples during the peak of fall. Hoffman Farms’ fall season, which includes a pumpkin patch and corn maze, typically launches in mid-September.
Gov. Tina Kotek recently paused a rulemaking process that some Oregon farmers claimed could hinder their ability to host events. The proposal would have clarified the difference between businesses that operate as farm stands and those that are part of the agritourism industry.
The Department of Land Conservation and Development hasn’t yet announced when the pause will end.