Named for founders Clare and Rob Talbott, Palisade orchard C&R Farms was established in 1976 and has since blossomed into a cornerstone of the Western Slope’s agricultural heritage. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, C&R remains a family affair with a third generation now running the business. The farm grows a bounty of tree fruits, including pears, apples, cherries, apricots, plums, nectarines and their signature peaches, bringing a taste of Colorado tradition to tables across the state.
From Palisade to the Front Range
C&R extends beyond the continental divide through the Talbotts’ nephew, Zack Quintana. For over 16 years, Quintana has served as the Front Range representative, managing sales, fundraisers and market appearances that bring their Western Slope fruit to the Pikes Peak region.
Quintana’s commitment to the local market scene took a step forward this year when he began a new role as owner of the Old Colorado City Farmers Market. By managing both the farm’s distribution and a historic community market, Quintana ensures that the Talbotts’ legacy of quality continues to thrive on both sides of the mountain.
Three Tiers of Bounty
C&R uses three different methods to bring their Palisade bounty to the public: local farmers markets, select grocery partnerships including Safeway, and a robust fundraising program that defines their community impact. For decades, C&R has partnered with Rotary Clubs, schools, boy scout troops and nonprofits throughout Colorado, providing these organizations with wholesale fruit to sell for their own local causes. This model allows the farm to nourish the state in more ways than one, turning a summer harvest into a powerful tool for community development.
2026 Early Harvest
This year’s growing season has already proven to be a masterclass in resilience for the C&R team. After an unusually warm, dry winter triggered an early bloom in the Grand Valley, a series of late-spring freezes threatened the delicate new blooms and fruits. To save the orchard, C&R set up round-the-clock heat fans and wind machines to circulate warmer air and ward off frost.
Although the heroic efforts successfully protected the harvest, the early wake-up call from Mother Nature means the entire schedule has shifted. Quintana emphasizes that timing is everything for fans of Palisade fruit this year.
“It’s very important for the public to be aware that the fruit harvest will be much earlier,” he says. “We expect produce to be available in early to mid-July versus early to mid-August. If people wait to show up at the markets in August, the produce may be sold out.”
C&R Farms
3620 F Road, Palisade
970.986.0500
candrfarms.com