Northwest lower Michigan's sweet cherry crop has been severely impacted by extreme weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, tornado-like wind gusts, and a hot, humid environment. This has led to an unprecedented level of pest and fungi damage.
Ben LaCross, a director at the Michigan Farm Bureau, expressed that the quality of the sweet cherry crop is the poorest in memory. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has requested a USDA disaster declaration, citing crop loss estimates in key sweet cherry counties ranging from 30% to 75% due to adverse weather conditions since April 1.
The region experienced nearly 13 inches of rainfall, contributing to higher insect populations and rapid fungi development, including cherry leaf spot and American brown rot. Despite efforts, crop protection measures have fallen short, particularly against the challenging wind conditions. The counties of Antrim, Benzie, Berrien, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Oceana, and Van Buren are among those affected. The USDA's Farm Service Agency is compiling damage assessment information, which will be used to potentially provide relief to affected farmers through low-interest loans and other assistance. Michigan farmers are encouraged to report any crop damages to the FSA for consideration in future disaster relief programs.
Source: farmprogress.com