Fate of Engel's farm stand in doubt

COLONIE, Sep 27, 2009 (Albany Times Union - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- AIN | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- On a crisp early fall day, bins of bright orange pumpkins and potted mums in autumnal hues stood in welcome contrast to the asphalt gray that dominates the environment in front of Engel's Farm & Market near Albany International Airport.

The farm stand -- a throwback to the area's agricultural past, before shopping malls, chain hotels and eateries overran the area -- saw a steady stream of customers Saturday, on what was likely its second to last day of operation. After years of struggling to make a profit, the town's oldest business may be going out of business.

Outside, the sign still touted such offerings as "our own corn, tomatoes, Hand melons," but posted around the store inside, laminated notes thanking loyal customers for their support read: "Due to fixed operating costs during this slow part of the season, we have made the difficult economic decision to close at the end of September."

Edward Engel, co-owner of Engel Farm on Route 155 said the business will be closing today due to family circumstances. He declined to comment on whether the market would ever re-open again, though he said it may be a possibility.

Engel is a sixth-generation farmer whose family moved from Albany's South End to the plot of land along Albany Shaker Road in the 1870s. The land borders the airport, which has bought pieces of the land from the Engels over the years. In June, the airport authority was working on a deal to buy 43.3 acres of their 85-acre plot southeast of the airport for $2.5 million.

The land is in a runway protection zone, an area that must be kept free of obstructions such as buildings and trees. Buying the property ensures it remains clear of obstructions, airport spokesman Doug Myers said.

Engel said the deal has not gone through yet, but since the airport can't let the area grow into brush, it is available for farming and can be leased out.

Earlier this year Engel told the Times Union that he was having trouble keep birds away from his crops, as measures such as using pyrotechnics were not working anymore.

The Times Union reported that Engel had issues in selling some of his crop, and was having to make changes to adapt to demand.

"There are only a few farms like ours left where there used to be a dozen or more," Engel told the Times Union in 2008. "I really don't know if we'll make it another generation. The only thing saving us is that people are coming back to the idea of buying local."

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