Whitmer pushes for cherry crop assistance

By Andi Anderson

Michigan’s cherry growers are facing a crisis as unpredictable weather conditions have devastated this year’s sweet cherry crop.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared the situation a "natural disaster" and has formally requested federal assistance to support the state's struggling cherry farmers.

In a letter sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Gov. Whitmer outlined the challenges faced by cherry growers across Michigan since April 1. The northwestern Lower Peninsula, one of the key cherry-growing regions, has experienced nearly 13 inches of rain, severely impacting the crops.

The governor emphasized that the combination of mild winter conditions followed by a humid spring and early summer has led to an "explosion" of insect populations, including the destructive Spotted Wing Drosophila.

Additionally, the rapid development of fungal diseases like Cherry Leaf Spot and American Brown Rot has further compounded the damage.

Crop losses across Michigan’s cherry-growing counties are estimated to range between 30% and 75%, a significant blow to the state’s agricultural economy. To help mitigate the impact, Gov. Whitmer is seeking a federal disaster declaration, which would make low-interest loans available to affected cherry growers.

"Damage Assessment information is being collected by the USDA Farm Service Agency and will be forwarded to your office as soon as it is available after October 1, 2024," Gov. Whitmer stated in her letter. She expressed gratitude for the USDA’s consideration of this urgent matter.

State Representative Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) confirmed that the USDA has received the letter and is actively looking into the situation.

The request underscores the critical need for support to ensure the survival of Michigan’s cherry industry, which has been hit hard by increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

Photo Credit: pixabay-couleur