Blueberry pickers saddened to learn of Dora farm’s closing


File photo Eckert’s Berry Farm, south of Dora, was a popular spot for berry pickers for many years, but it has closed this spring due to Tomi and Richard Eckert’s health issues. Times reporter Jessi Dreckman, pictured below, right, picked berries at Eckert’s for many years. The 9-gallon berry haul, above was the fruit of many hours of berry picking in 2015 by Dreckman, Mammoth-area resident Tena McKinzie, center, and Gainesville resident Carole Long.

Many area residents are saddened to learn that Eckert’s Berry Farm south of Dora has closed due to health challenges that have impacted owners Tomi and Richard Eckert, who have operated the popular U-pick farm for many years. 

Another Ozark County blueberry farm, Timber Rock, off N Highway near Brixey, closed shortly before longtime owner Arne Gustafson died in January 2017 at age 95.

One remaining option for residents who enjoy picking their own berries is the Anderson Blueberry Farm in the Glade Top Trail area of Douglas County. The farm’s Facebook page said it would be opening Tuesday, June 11, for blueberry picking. Its Facebook post describes the business as “a family-owned and operated U-pick-it berry farm” that has been in operation since 1985 and “proudly [has] never used any sprays or pesticides on our plants.”

U-pick berries at the Anderson farm are $15 per gallon. Pre-picked berries are $30 per gallon, but customers are asked to call ahead to check for availability. Cash and checks are accepted, no credit cards.

To reach the farm from Gainesville, head north on Highway 5 and turn left onto Douglas County’s A Highway a few miles south of Ava. From A Highway, turn left onto Farm Road 409 and travel a little over 2 miles. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, check the Anderson Berry Farm Facebook page or call 417-830-2452.

Ozark County Times

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Gainesville, MO 65655

Phone: (417) 679-4641
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