The Wall Street and subprime mortgage meltdown in October has touched nearly every American, resulting in tightening of credit, massive job layoffs in many sectors, decreasing demand for some products, and erosion of consumer confidence. Though farmers produce a basic need—food—even they are impacted by the recession. We asked tree fruit growers how the economy is affecting their businesses. Tom DeMaree grower, New York Delayed effect Tom DeMaree, orchardist from Williamson, New York, said that while the nation’s economy closely affects the fruit industry, there tends to be a lag period. “We’ll probably get through this crop year, but I’m […]