Many farms throughout the Garden State now rely almost completely on their visitors to stay afloat.

At Terhune Orchards in Lawrence Township, customers can enjoy a corn maze, feed the animals and, of course, pick apples. The orchard also offers school tours. Co-owner Gary Mount says he relies on almost 500,000 visitors a year to keep his orchard profitable. Mount adds he would rather entertain people than distribute to retailers.

?Packing and shipping to supermarkets is just not for us because the prices are low and the margins are too small,? Mount says.

The orchard owners say they like to add something new each year to attract more people. However, they also like to stick with what works, which includes their 31st Annual Apple Festival.

For an extended interview with Mount, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

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