Cherries in container at farmers marketMichigan Governor Gretchen Witmer has written a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to urge a disaster declaration for the Sweet cherry crop. Excessive rainfall, strong winds and hot, humid weather have led to pest and fungi destruction in northwest lower Michigan. Sweet cherry crop loss estimates range from 30% to 75%

Northwest lower Michigan has experienced nearly 13 inches of rainfall since April 1. A mild winter coupled with this moisture resulted in spotted wing drosophila, leaf spot and American brown rot outbreaks. The counties affected include Antrim, Benzie, Berrien, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Oceana and Van Buren.

The USDA’s Farm Service Agency is collecting damage assessment information which will be sent to the Ag Secretary’s office after October 1.

Read more on the Michigan sweet cherry crop here.