Disaster strikes - cherry crop losses in Michigan

By Andi Anderson

Michigan, renowned as the “Cherry Capitol of the World,” faces significant challenges due to severe weather events that threaten its cherry industry. This year, sweet cherry farmers experienced losses of up to 75 percent of their crops. A mild winter followed by warm, wet conditions in the early season led to increased insect and disease damage.

In response to these challenges, Governor Gretchen Whitmer sought a Declaration of Disaster from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide essential emergency resources for cherry producers in northern Michigan.

Recently, the USDA issued disaster declarations for Antrim, Grand Traverse, and Leelanau counties, along with eight contiguous counties: Benzie, Crawford, Manistee, Otsego, Charlevoix, Kalkaska, Missaukee, and Wexford.

“I was proud to stand with Governor Whitmer as we urged the USDA to recognize the impact of these disasters on Michigan’s sweet cherry harvest, and glad to see our farmers receive access to critical federal assistance,” said Boring, director of the MDARD. “Receiving a USDA disaster declaration is key to ensuring producers can access the resources they need. I appreciate USDA Secretary Vilsack for his commitment to Michigan’s sweet cherry farming families.”

“From farmers to producers to retailers, so many in our community rely on the success of crops like cherries,” said State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City). “I am glad to see the USDA make this decision to bring some relief for the devastating sweet cherry crop loss and I will continue to seek ways to do more to support our farmers weathering this latest challenge to their livelihoods.”

The USDA’s designation allows qualified farm operators in these counties to apply for low-interest emergency loans through the USDA’s Farm Services Agency (USDA-FSA) if they meet eligibility requirements. Farmers have eight months from the declaration date to apply for these loans to help cover their actual losses.

The USDA-FSA will evaluate each loan application based on the extent of losses, available security, and repayment capability. For further information about federal emergency farm loan programs, please visit the USDA-FSA website.

Photo Credit: usda