Grape growers in New York state have been hit hard by a late spring frost. The unseasonably cold temperatures damaged crops in the Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley, and other regions. The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has declared a disaster in 31 counties, making farmers eligible for federal assistance.
The frost damaged a variety of crops, including grapes, apples, peaches, and berries. Grape growers are particularly hard-hit, as New York is a major wine producer. The New York Wine and Grape Foundation estimates that the state's wine industry generates $6.65 billion in economic activity each year.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has issued a crop loss declaration for farm wineries. This means that wineries that lost at least 30% of their crop can temporarily source grapes from out of state. The declaration is valid through December 31, 2023.
Hans Walter-Peterson, a viticulture extension specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension, said that more than 40% of Gewürztraminer grapes were destroyed in the 2023 freeze. Gewürztraminer is a variety of white wine grape that is grown in New York.
Walter-Peterson said that he is hopeful that the vines will come back next year with little to no damage. He said that the frost damage was isolated to the buds, and that the vines should be able to produce a crop next year.
The New York State Liquor Authority has applauded the crop loss declaration for farm wineries. The authority said that it is committed to helping farmers recover from natural disasters.
The state Department of Agriculture and Markets is also looking into frost damage and crop loss for farm cideries. Cideries are businesses that produce cider, a drink made from fermented apple juice.
The late spring frost is a major setback for New York's grape and wine industry. However, the crop loss declaration will help farmers recover and get back to business.
Photo Credit: istock-jimfeng
Categories: New York, Business, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables