By Kristen Thompson

Food Connects works with producers to bring good local food to retailers and schools in our region. Champlain Orchards has been a vital partner in bringing great-tasting local fruit to both students and stores. Based in Shoreham, VT, Champlain Orchards is one of the oldest continuously operating orchards in Vermont, growing over 175 varieties of apples, peaches, pears, plums, cherries, nectarines, and berries.

We had the opportunity to hear from Bill Suhr, Founder and Orchardist at Champlain Orchards, about their delicious products and the importance of EcoCertified Fruit.

How was Champlain Orchards started? What was its inspiration?

Champlain Orchards started in 1998 as an opportunity for self-employment and fulfilling work. I had a desire to work on the land and a desire to be creative, exploring our potential.

What makes your products unique?

We are part of the EcoCertified Fruit* program, and all of our fruit is single source. We also minimize the use of preservatives.

Can you tell us more about your growing practices?

EcoCertified Fruit is a rigorous, ecology-based farming, certification, and marketing program for Northeast tree fruit growers that supports both local and ecologically grown. We follow the Eco program’s rigorous growing protocol based on the most environmentally-friendly practices possible in our region. These practices create an orchard ecosystem that supports pollinators, keeps damaging insects in balance with biological and preventive methods, and promotes soil and tree health. 

What is your favorite part of growing fruit?

I really enjoy tending to young nursery and newly planted orchards with my son Rupert. I also really enjoy watching my daughter Rosa and my wife Andrea interact with Pick-Your-Own (PYO) customers each fall.

What is one of your favorite recipes you make with your apples?

Orchard ice is our cider syrup being frozen as an Italian ice. I am also really enjoying blending our maple syrup with our cider syrup, and what a treat to drizzle over Strafford Organic Creamery’s vanilla ice cream.

Why is buying and selling locally and the local food movement important to you?

It’s very rewarding to know your customers and hear their feedback and encouragement. I am very proud to be helping Vermont be more self-sufficient and less reliant on importing food from around the world.

How does working with Food Connects help your business/what are you excited about in this partnership?

We really like when we develop relationships where the buyer is working closely with the consumer placing bulk orders. There is an opportunity to better educate an already enlightened consumer on new varieties or products we are excited to be offering.

Any events coming up or fun facts about your business/products?

We submit products to the Good Food Awards in California annually, and we are hoping to receive recognition for our maple cider syrup and some of our hard cider entries.

Anything else you would like me to feature?

We are very proud to be working land that is all conserved by the Vermont Land Trust. We are proud to be growing our own nursery trees and seeing them through to making award-winning products and hosting visitors to our farms to witness firsthand what fruit farming feels and looks like.