NorCal Pumpkin Patches Struggle After Wildfire Damage

SONOMA VALLEY, CA -- The effects of the wildfires are still being felt in the region even as they are near containment.

Pumpkin patches have reportedly been struggling to overcome the damage as sales have dropped compared to previous years, according to a report by the Press Democrat.

The article said "The popular autumn destinations, like other businesses across Sonoma County, saw traffic drop off during the relentless fires, with would-be customers steered away by roadblocks or displaced and left homeless by the destructive blazes."

One farm, hurt by the Tubbs fire, lost pumpkins, trailers and wagons, among other items, according to the article.

Despite the obstacles, business leaders are advertising that at least 90 percent of local businesses are up and running, and ready for customers to return to Wine Country.

The wildfires, that killed at least 42 people and scorched tens of thousands of acres, are expected to be contained this week.

--Photo by Al Francis