The proprietors of an apple farm in West Montrose, Ontario, are becoming increasingly frustrated with individuals pilfering their hard-earned harvest. Tim Shuh, the operator of Shuh Orchards where visitors can pick their own apples near Kitchener, has implemented new regulations for this apple-picking season. These rules prohibit visitors from bringing strollers, backpacks, and wagons into the U-pick section of the farm due to a noticeable rise in theft incidents.
Following two busy weekends in a row, Shuh reluctantly enforced the rules to address the growing problem of theft on the farm. With 7,500 customers visiting Shuh Orchards over the past 14 days, Shuh and his team have observed individuals attempting to conceal fruits and leaving without paying. Instances included families loading bushels into car trunks instead of using the farm’s designated bags, and one incident where apples were found hidden under blankets in a stroller.
Shuh revealed that he personally confiscated about 250 pounds of apples, with his father reporting additional theft cases. He estimated approximately 500 pounds of apples were stolen over the last two weeks, potentially resulting in a loss of $2,000 in revenue. The ongoing theft issues have raised concerns about the farm’s future in allowing visitors to pick their own apples.
Similarly, other farms in the region, like Good Family Farm Pumpkins, have faced comparable challenges with theft. Byron Good, co-owner of the farm, acknowledged the issue of theft but expressed reluctance to implement strict rules like Shuh Orchards, fearing it could detract from the customer experience. Instead, Good has opted for security cameras and planting valuable pumpkins farther from the road as a preventive measure.
Kevin Vallier, CEO of Agritourism Ontario, highlighted that theft problems in U-pick farms extend beyond the Waterloo region. He emphasized that theft not only depletes inventory but also leads to increased costs for farmers, potentially affecting customers as well. Some farmers have resorted to hiring security or considering shutting down U-pick operations due to substantial financial losses.
While some farmers share concerns about implementing stringent rules impacting the customer experience, Shuh emphasized the necessity of addressing rampant theft. The introduction of new regulations aims to safeguard the farm and customers while promoting interest in locally grown Ontario produce.
