Canton Apples Honored as St. Lawrence County’s Producer of the Year
The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce celebrated Canton Apples as the 2025 Producer of the Year at its Annual Dinner held at Gran-View Restaurant, recognizing the cidery’s commitment to exceptional quality and its pivotal role in bolstering the North Country’s economy. Known for its handcrafted apple ciders, small-batch hard ciders, and seasonal blends, Canton Apples captures the essence of the St. Lawrence River Valley through sustainable practices and a deep connection to the region’s agricultural heritage. “Canton Apples transforms the North Country’s natural abundance into extraordinary products,” said Amanda Hitterman, Secretary of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “Their ciders embody authenticity, sustainability, and a passion for sharing the region’s unique flavors.”
Canton Apples, led by owner Joel Howie, blends traditional organic orchard techniques with modern eco-friendly methods to nurture 27 acres of orchards featuring over 250 varieties of apples, pears, and plums. What began as a father-son bonding project has grown into a cornerstone of the community, with Howie crediting his wife Becky, son Luke, collaborators Mark Shepard, Patti Mason, and Sharon Poole, and pickers John and Peggy Hayes for harvesting over 800 bushels this year alone. By partnering with local farms, markets, restaurants, and festivals, Canton Apples promotes regional ingredients and showcases other small producers at its Canton farmstand. “We’re staging a quiet, local food revolution,” Howie said, accepting the award. The Chamber praised Canton Apples for its innovative agriculture and community investment, solidifying its legacy as a North Country treasure.
Canton Apples
Canton Apples is renowned for its hand-pressed apple ciders, small-batch hard ciders, and seasonal blends, the family-run cidery cultivates over 250 varieties of apples, pears, and plums across 27 acres using organic and sustainable practices. Owner Joel Howie, who founded the business to bond with his son Luke, partners with local farms, markets, and festivals to showcase the St. Lawrence River Valley’s rich flavors. This prestigious award recognizes Canton Apples’ dedication to quality, community collaboration, and innovative agriculture, solidifying its role as a leader in the region’s burgeoning local food movement.
