KYN: Erickson Apple Orchards Impacts Generations

BAYFIELD, Wis. — When it comes to fall flavors, pumpkin spice, and of course anything apple comes to mind. Erickson Apple Orchards in Bayfield has honed in on this fall favorite since 1910.

“It’s our honor to carry on what our grandparents started. And even my mother to carry on,” said Beth Erickson.

With this family, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. The business has been in their family for several generations. And with receiving that torch, it has been big shoes to fill.

“You navigate through it, and then you remember everything they taught you. And you know, I’ve made my own mistakes, definitely. But that’s ok you learn by them,” said owner and operator Fred Erickson.

But with those hardships, the family ties have seriously paid off. Over the years, the ideas and innovations kept piling up. Beth Erickson is the main baker at the orchard.

“We do scones, we do apple pie sticks, we do apple breads, we do apple cider bread pudding,” listed Beth.

Beth used to be a teacher but felt a special calling to the family business.

“And after teaching for so many years, what I love about it is, I make 150 jars of jam. They’re all lined up. They’re all in order and sequence. Of course, teachers are kind of like that. So, you know, it’s a natural fit for me to do this,” said Beth.

There is something special to remember when it comes to making all of this possible.

“The lake has a huge effect, and they found that out back when they started the first horticultures, started in this area. They found that this is a perfect area because it’s got its own little microclimate on top of this hill. And it grows apple trees phenomenally,” explained Fred.

With all this in mind, Fred remembers his core values.

“It’s exhausting. But it’s all good. You know, I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t enjoy it. Because farming and having a small business in this day and age is, it’s tough. But we manage to get through it every year,” said Fred.

The future for this orchard is looking bright.

“You know we’re kind of looking at the younger kids, so which one is going to be the next generation. My granddaughter who is six loves to come in here and help me. So, she would be the sixth generation,” said Beth.

But until then, the Orchard is in great hands.