Meadowbrook Orchards is committed to producing the top quality products with care and commitment to the highest standards, while using sustainable methods.
As a small, independent family farm, we strive to protect our soil, our environment, and our community for current and future generations. We take health and safety for our customers, our workers, and ourselves—very seriously.
Growing organic apples is extremely difficult and labor intensive, especially in New England. We’re not a certified organic orchard, but we use green and organic principles where possible.
We follow strict Integrated Pest Management (IPM) guidelines. Once a week, someone goes through the orchard to inspect for pests and other potential problems. We use a variety of techniques to address the pests and we only spray when strictly necessary.
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
The USDA defines integrated pest management (IPM) as “a sustainable approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health and environmental risks.”
Specifically, IPM is a systematic approach to pest suppression and management. It relies on increased information and improved decision-making to reduce reliance on chemical controls. Essentially, IPM is common-sense pest control using science, strategic planning, and management to adopt the methods that are least disruptive to the environment.
IPM includes preventive steps as well as nonchemical and chemical controls, usually in combination with one another. IPM is a highly effective approach that minimizes the use of pesticides and maximizes natural processes.