Fall YGA Tour of Larriland Farm, Butler Orchards and Doc Waters Cidery

The 2025 Fall YGA Farm tour started off at Larriland Farm in Howard County, Maryland. Primarily a pick-your-own operation, Larriland provides multiple crops ranging from apples, peaches, berries, vegetables, and more. Fall being one of the busiest seasons, most days are full of excitement for both customers and employees enjoying the farm, sights, and harvest atmosphere.

Lynn Moore and family first had tour attendees gather in the retail market. They discussed what makes their operation unique and how each family member has grown the business over the years. Each year, adjustments are made to further promote the farm and give the customer something new. This year, they extended the market season until Thanksgiving to give customers another opportunity for fresh produce. Fields are strategically placed for easy access and to allow for different options of picking. Most fields are accessible by car with designated parking close by. A hayride was taken through the orchard, showing the infrastructure and allowing for questions such as rotational planning, variety choices to accommodate soil type, irrigation, etc. 

We then traveled to Butler Orchards, where we were greeted by young growers Tyler and Ben Butler, as well as their sister, Hallie Butler-Van Horn. A quick behind-the-scenes tour of the market and bakery was followed by a drive around the farm, where we saw the agrotainment area and multiple blocks of fruiting crops. While enjoying lunch, Tyler discussed the history of the orchard and how it has expanded. A farm that used to be primarily peaches is now a Pick-Your-Own based operation with crops ranging from strawberries, blueberries, cherries, apples, flowers, etc. 

After lunch, the final destination was Doc Waters Cidery, owned by the Butlers. Tyler and Ben showed us the pressing line and cider equipment and gave insight into how they have adapted DWC to a family-oriented atmosphere where both adults and children can enjoy the orchard and all the establishment has to offer. Attendees enjoyed a tasting of DWC cider products before the conclusion of the day.

The YGA Thanks Larriland Farm and Butler Orchards for hosting the 2025 Fall tour.

YGA Co-Chair
Nathan Filak 
(Photos by Sarah Zost and Nathan Filak)