LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Michigan cherry farmers in the northern part of the state are facing one of the most significant crop losses in recent memory. After heavy and persistent rainfall during the critical months of May and June, over 75% of the state’s sweet cherry harvest has been destroyed, prompting federal authorities to approve disaster relief to aid affected growers.

In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued disaster declarations for Antrim, Grand Traverse, and Leelanau counties, along with surrounding areas, making it possible for farmers to apply for low-interest loans and other forms of assistance. 

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 Cherries, in particular, are a key crop for Michigan, with the state leading the nation in their production.

“Growers had a good crop going with fairly decent prices expected, and it was snatched away from them at the last minute,” Allen Steimel, general manager of Leelanau Fruit Co., informed the Detroit Free Press. According to Steimel, this year’s losses were particularly difficult because they occurred late in the season, exacerbating the financial strain as farmers had already invested heavily in seasonal expenses like fertilizers, labor, and equipment.

Farmers like Ben LaCross, whose family has been growing cherries in the region for over 50 years, described the challenges of the 2024 growing season. 

“We saw poor quality that was unprecedented in the history of growing sweet cherries in northern Michigan,” LaCross said, attributing the crop loss to the impact of excessive rainfall. The constant wet conditions made it difficult for farmers to keep up with pest control and led to widespread cracking and rot in the cherries just before harvest.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s request for disaster relief in August was approved by the USDA earlier this week. Farmers in the declared disaster areas have eight months to apply for federally backed loans, which will help cover part of their actual losses. The USDA Farm Service Agency will review loan applications, taking into consideration the extent of losses and the applicant’s ability to repay.

Despite the assistance, LaCross estimates it will take several years for farms to fully recover from the financial toll of this year’s losses. In the meantime, operational costs remain a concern. 

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“We still have staff that has gotten paid, fuel bills to operate our equipment,” LaCross said.