By Andi Anderson
Michigan’s cherry industry, known as the "cherry capital of the world," faced a challenging year in 2024 due to extreme weather conditions. From a record-warm winter to a wet spring and a dry summer, these climate extremes impacted both sweet and tart cherry crops, leading to substantial losses and diminished fruit quality.
Wet conditions in spring caused fruit bursting and rot, promoting pests and diseases like brown rot. These issues forced farmers to increase pesticide use, adding to production costs. By summer, the dry spell further damaged crops, with the governor’s office estimating up to 75% losses in the sweet cherry harvest. While tart cherries fared better, quality concerns persisted.
To address the crisis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved federal disaster aid, providing short-term relief. However, farmers like Raul Gomez, operations manager at Wunsch Farms, expressed concerns about relying on such measures, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions.
Climate change isn’t the only challenge. Rising production costs, labor shortages, and increased global competition are straining the industry. Some farmers, like Leisa Eckerle Hankins, are adapting by implementing high-density planting techniques to reduce costs and improve fruit quality. Eckerle Hankins also founded the Cherry Grower Alliance, a collaborative effort to find sustainable solutions and ensure the industry’s future.
Despite these efforts, the incoming administration’s focus on fossil fuel production and reduced climate legislation raises concerns about the safety nets available to farmers. Proposals to cut crop insurance subsidies and conservation incentives add to the uncertainty.
Farmers remain determined to adapt and innovate. By uniting through alliances and adopting advanced practices, Michigan’s cherry growers aim to overcome current challenges and sustain the industry for future generations.
Photo Credit: pixabay-couleur
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle