A Community's Plea: Rallying to Save Beloved Greg's U-Pick Pumpkin Farm

For generations, the crisp autumn air in Niagara County has been synonymous with the joyous laughter echoing through the fields of Greg's U-Pick. This cherished pumpkin farm, more than just a business, has woven itself into the fabric of local family traditions, serving as the quintessential backdrop for fall memories.

But now, the very heart of these beloved autumn rituals is under threat, as owners Greg and Karen Gauthier face the daunting prospect of closing their gates for good.

The Gauthiers, whose dedication has cultivated not just pumpkins but countless smiles, are grappling with an overwhelming surge in operational costs.

From soaring insurance premiums and fuel prices to the escalating expenses of labor and essential supplies, the financial burden has become unsustainable. "It's to the point where, in order for us to survive, we need some community help," Karen Gauthier shared, her words carrying the weight of a dream on the brink.

Greg's U-Pick isn't merely a place to pick a pumpkin; it's an experience.

It's where children take their first hayride, where families choose the perfect carving pumpkin, and where the spirit of autumn truly comes alive. The potential loss of this institution sends ripples of sadness through the community, as residents realize the profound impact its absence would have on their annual traditions.

In a heartfelt plea to their community, the Gauthiers have launched a GoFundMe campaign, desperately hoping that collective support can avert this impending closure.

Their goal is not just to keep the lights on, but to preserve a legacy – a place where new generations can continue to build their own cherished fall memories. "We don't want to close," Greg Gauthier emphasized, underscoring their deep desire to continue serving the community they love.

The call to action extends beyond financial contributions.

The Gauthiers urge everyone to visit the farm, purchase their pumpkins, gourds, and other fall decor. Every visit, every purchase, every share of their story helps to breathe life back into their struggling venture. The future of Greg's U-Pick, a cornerstone of Niagara County's fall season, now rests firmly in the hands of the community it has so faithfully served.

It's a critical moment for local residents to show up and ensure that the laughter, the hayrides, and the magic of autumn continue for years to come.