Endres has been in the orchard farming industry for 35 years. Although rain is scarce, Endres says the deep roots of his older crops are keeping them in good shape.
At the beginning of the season though, he planted 7,000 new bushes.
“If they do not get enough water to establish a root system this year, we will lose about a year of predicted growth,” Endres said.
Jim Allen is the president of the New York Apple Association. He surveys farms across the state.
“It hurts the yield in the production of apples,” Allen said. “They need water. An older tree has deep roots, so they’re going to be a little heartier. With our massive expansions and planting in the whole area, it’s a big concern about what the results will be from a dry season.”
“The apples will be very sweet,” Allen said. “Less water, more sugar.”
