The following is an excerpt of a broadcast and written story by Anne Herbst of 9News in Denver. She interviewed and filmed us for six months to capture the life cycle of a peach harvest at Rancho Durazno—from springtime frost worries through orchard planting, farmers markets, Front Range deliveries and harvest. She uplifted the voices of our field and packing crews, and captured a beautiful moment in the succession of our farm from generation to generation. This is her story.
CHAPTER 1: A life's work
Each day on Colorado’s Western Slope starts with sunlight spreading over cliffs and mesas. Shadows and light play on the land in a magical way.
And as sure as the sun rises, the farmers wake up with it.
“I can see the whole history in these trees,” said Thomas Cameron, a longtime fruit farmer.
Like clockwork, Thomas has spent his last 50 springs rising early to survey his orchards in Palisade, known as Colorado’s wine country – and for its reddish, juicy peaches.
“I’m able to produce some experiences of a person’s lifetime,” Thomas said. “Sometimes the most flavorful experience someone’s had in life.”
Peach season starts in early April. Trees are full of pink and white blossoms and the buzz of pollinating bees. It’s peaceful and beautiful – a tourist’s cotton-candy colored dream as they bike along the backroads among farms and visit wineries.
It’s calm now, but looks can be deceiving…. Continue reading on 9News.com.
[Photos] Anne Herbst/9News