At Meadows Apple Farm in Chautauqua County, owner William Meadows said the season kicked off strong despite some economic challenges. WATCH: WNY orchards feel the pinch as apple prices climb'Support the local farmer': WNY orchards feel the pinch as apple prices climb“People were showing up the first of September,” Meadows said. So this way, we save some money and enjoy it.”wkbwBut even at local farms, prices have climbed. According to the latest Consumer Price Index, apple prices are up 9.6% year-over-year. “At the beginning of the season, we set our prices based on how much things cost us.