Our Model
Core Orchards Detroit Demonstration Orchard is 100% organic. The land for Core Orchards Detroit was acquired through the Detroit Land Bank Authority. After a series of meetings with the community and the City of Detroit, WHS was given approval to plant Core Orchards Detroit Demonstration Orchard through a special land use hearing to re-zone the residential land as mixed use. On Arbor Day 2018, Core Orchards Detroit planted its first 350 honeycrisp apple trees in compliance with the Detroit Urban Agriculture Ordinance, Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED), and U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines. Core Orchards Detroit has also received grants and support from the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development.
Core Orchards Detroit will follow a traditional U Pick Apple Orchard and Cider Mill business model, while becoming a one-of-a-kind community resource and educational center.
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Pick Apples.Are you interested in picking some of Detroit’s finest honey-crisp apples? Here’s how:Find out when harvest season starts and ends. Then, claim a ticket, select a harvest time slot, grab a basket, and hop on the tractor ride. Our tractor ride will take you to a predetermined harvest location in the orchard. The harvest time slots are designed to provide more than enough time to pick out the perfect apples. |
Grow Your Own.Have you ever considered growing your own fruits and vegetables? Here’s How:Education and vocational opportunities will be abundant through Core Orchards Detroit. We will provide education that develops skills both in agriculture, as well as business. Field trips will be specially designed to help children understand how the orchard functions, as well as the larger community and economic importance. |
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Drink Cider, Eat Donuts.Do you want to enjoy that classic Michigan cider mill experience in Detroit’s city limits? Here’s how:We are working with local and national partners to bring a selection of cider and donuts to the city. Eventually, we hope to provide these delicious treats from our in-house production. |
Have a Party.Do you want to party in the orchard?Core Orchards allow private groups to rent the space for their personal or corporate needs, including Weddings, Graduations, Celebrations, Picnics, and other approved activities. |
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Become a Member.Are you committed to the vision and ready to plant your roots in the future? Here’s How:Similar to that of the Detroit Zoo or the Henry Ford, Core Orchards Detroit will offer an Annual Family Membership. The membership will provide the following benefits, and will be provided at a reduced rate for Detroit Residents.
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