The unforeseen freeze in May took New York farmers by surprise, as many experienced the harshest late-season frost in recent memory. Responding to this crisis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has now labeled 31 New York counties as primary natural disaster areas.
State Commissioner of Agriculture, Richard A. Ball, remarked on the profound impact of this freeze on the agricultural community, recognizing the unprecedented challenge it posed. The designation ensures that affected farmers can now seek assistance, like emergency loans, from the USDA Agricultural Services Agency (FSA).
In addition to these primary counties, 24 others have been marked as contiguous disaster areas, extending the reach of assistance. This aid is especially crucial for New York, which stands as the third-largest grape and wine producer in the U.S.
Adding to this relief, the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets has made provisions for wineries. Those affected by the frost can temporarily source grapes or grape juice from outside New York till the end of 2023, ensuring that they can maintain their operations and cater to their markets.
Lily M. Fan, State Liquor Authority Chairwoman, expressed gratitude, highlighting the unpredictable nature of agriculture and the commitment of New York State to support its farmers. Also, an industry-wide webinar is set for September 13, 2023, to guide farms through the application process.
Farmers are encouraged to document any damages and losses, with a crop loss designation for farm cider houses to be announced soon. The entire state remains hopeful and resilient, determined to bounce back from this unexpected setback.
Categories: New York, Government & Policy