Almar Orchards

Duffield Road
Flushing, MI 48433

The apple orchards of Almar Orchards have been in Jim Koan’s family for over 55 years. Jim has been working the 250 acres of land and has had quite a bit of help from his wife Karen and their five children: Monique, Michele, Zach, Mignon and Jacob. The farm has been certified organic for the past five years.

Each member of the family has an important multifunctional role in the production and sale of 40,000 bushels of apples and cider. There is also the responsibility of working the farm market, which is open year-round on the family land. Almar Orchard also receives quite a bit of administrative help from Karen’s Sisters. Kathy Weller keeps the books, Janice Duso takes charge of retail sales and Beth Duso oversees sales and school tours.

Although Almar Orchards is focused on the production of apples, vegetables, apple cider and hard cider, they have enough animal friends to pass for a zoo! Their farm is considered home for a number of dogs, cats, birds sheep, goats, llamas, reindeer, horses, pigs, exotic chickens, turkeys and many more furry and feathered friends!

Why is growing organic a priority for your family?
I have been growing organically for eight years. It was a natural evolutionary progression that started over 30 years ago. I started out trying to push against Mother Nature. As I learned, I evolved to work with her and the wonderful bounty she can provide.

What is your favorite part of being an organic farmer?
Each year there is another round of opportunities to learn and observe how the intricate pieces and balances of Mother Nature interplay.

If you are organic, why did you choose this path?
Most of the organic produce grown in the US comes from family farms, whereas conventionally grown food comes mostly from large industrialized farms. If the sustainable organic farms aren’t supported, then these family farms will be lost forever.

Why is your farm special?
It’s the same story told over and over again: Conventional farmer learns to respect his environment; gets smarter and continues producing food but without damaging the environment. All organic farms are special for that reason.

Where can consumers get your products?
Almar Orchards has a farm market that is open all year round.

For more information about Almar Orchards visit their website, call 810.659.6568 or email them.