Michigan, a leading global cherry producer, has faced a disastrous crop year due to extreme weather, according to state officials. On August 2, Governor Gretchen Whitmer requested a federal disaster declaration from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to aid the struggling sweet cherry industry in northwest Michigan.
In her letter, Whitmer highlighted the nearly 13 inches of rain that fell in northwest Michigan since April 1, which, coupled with a warm, humid spring, led to a surge in insect populations and fungi like Cherry Leaf Spot and American Brown Rot. Despite efforts to protect the crops, windy conditions hampered these attempts.
Michigan is responsible for about 20% of the U.S. sweet cherry production, with the Grand Traverse region producing 80% of the state’s supply. The state also produces over 70% of the nation’s tart cherries. Severe weather has severely impacted peak cherry season, typically from late July to mid-August, with estimated crop losses ranging from 30% to 75%.
State Rep. Betsy Coffia and Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the critical role of agriculture in northwest Michigan’s economy and supported Whitmer’s request for federal assistance.
Via: Bridgemi
