A.P.P.L.E. Project - Apple Heritage & History in the Pikes Peak Region

Join us for a fascinating lecture exploring the rich history of apple cultivation in the Pikes Peak Region. From the booming orchard economy of the late 1800s to the resilient heritage varieties still found today, this class connects the past to the present and highlights the cultural and agricultural legacy of fruit trees in El Paso County.

Presented by Eric Metzger, Director of the McAllister House Museum, this session offers historical context for the A.P.P.L.E. Project and inspires participants to see orchard stewardship as part of a living tradition.

In partnership between the El Paso County Conservation District and Colorado State University Extension, this class supports the revival of Colorado’s historic fruit tree culture while promoting sustainable land stewardship and water conservation.

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Led by a local historian and preservation advocate, this class is ideal for small acreage landowners, backyard growers, educators, and anyone participating in the A.P.P.L.E. Project—Apple Preservation 🍎 Planting 🍎 Land Education—who wants to deepen their understanding of the region’s apple-growing heritage.

• The history of apple orchards in the Pikes Peak Region and their role in local agriculture
• Stories of early orchardists and the varieties they cultivated
• How historic orchard sites are being rediscovered and restored

• Access to a live lecture and Q&A with Eric Metzger
• Historical materials and resources for further exploration
• Connection to a growing network of orchard stewards and heritage advocates

This class is one of three Optional classes (see below) for participants in the A.P.P.L.E. Project’s micro-orchard initiative.

If you want to take part in the Tree Incentive Program, you must complete all of the required workshops (see below). This ensures that landowners are equipped with the knowledge and tools to establish and maintain resilient, water-wise orchards and qualifies you to receive a free apple tree.

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While this class is not required for the A.P.P.L.E. Project’s tree incentive program, it provides valuable skills for making the most of your orchard’s harvest and deepening your connection to Colorado’s apple-growing heritage.

1. – October 15, 2025
   Explore the rich history of apple cultivation in the Pikes Peak Region with a lecture led by the Director of the McAllister House Museum. Discover the legacy of local orchards and heritage varieties.
2. – October 22, 2025
   Hands-on class in water bath canning and other apple preservation techniques - such as freezing and dehydrating. Participants take home what they make - shelf-stable apple pie filling - and receive a starter canning kit.
3. Apple Preservation Class #2 – October 19, 2026 - Check back in 2026 for the link.
   Repeat of Apple Preservation 2025 class. This is a Hands-on class in water bath canning and other apple preservation techniques - such as freezing and dehydrating. Participants take home what they make - shelf-stable apple pie filling - and receive a starter canning kit.

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1. – October 25, 2025 Learn how to choose, plant, and care for heirloom apple trees.

1. – March 14, 2026 Hands-on training in pruning techniques to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Includes a beginner’s pruning kit.
2. – May 30, 2026 Learn to identify and manage common pests and diseases using both organic and conventional methods. Includes a pest and disease monitoring kit.

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Spots are limited—

Learn more about the A.P.P.L.E. Project at:

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Colorado State University: An equal access and equal opportunity University. https://col.st/ll0t3

Host or Publisher Colorado State University Extension: El Paso County