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'We can carry on that Daffodil Hill tradition throughout our community' | Business owner reacts to Daffodil Hill closing

The popularity of the hill is at the heart of the issue. While shops enjoyed the business, the area's infrastructure just couldn't handle the influx of traffic.

VOLCANO, Calif — Every year for more than 80 years, thousands of people flocked to Amador County to visit the sweeping display of beautiful blooms on Daffodil Hill. But after decades of business, Daffodil Hill is closing indefinitely.

The Ryan Family, who owns McLaughlin Daffodil Hill, announced the closure Monday in a Facebook post, calling it the "most difficult" decision they've had to make.

"The generations that came before us who purchased this property in 1887, which evolved into Daffodil Hill, could never have envisioned that their efforts would have ever grown into such a beloved attraction," the family said in the post.

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The popularity of the hill is at the heart of the issue. While local businesses enjoyed the extra flow of customers, the area's infrastructure just couldn't handle the influx of traffic and parking.

And those same crowds were difficult for residents like Barbara Shultz, who bought her home by Daffodil Hill more than 20 years ago. "The last issue was the traffic and even locals were upset because they couldn't get down the hill," Shultz said.

Tracey Berkney, co-owner of Volcano Union Inn, and other Amador County businesses are trying to figure out what's next. 

Berkney said her small hotel started seeing an increase in tourist business in March when the daffodils were in bloom. "The entire county gets re-awakened when Daffodil Hill opens, because there are so many people who come to see it," Berkney said.

But she said she understands the family's decision.

"First and foremost we need to honor the Ryan family for their commitment to the community, and to Daffodil Hill, and carrying on the family tradition," Berkney said. "Second is to figure out how we can carry on that Daffodil Hill tradition throughout our community."

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