KENNEWICK, Wash.- Farmers across the region suffered extreme loss last year. The USDA is working to give farmers that money back.
2023 saw consistently above average temperatures through June July and August according to the National Weather Service.
In response, several Washington lawmakers wrote a letter urging the USDA to expedite a disaster declaration.
“Last year, Washington’s cherry growers lost around half their crop to extreme weather. Now, as they prepare to kick off their new season, this disaster designation from the Secretary of Agriculture will help growers access federal assistance to keep this $1 billion industry going – and ensure Washington’s famously delicious sweet cherries make it into shopping carts,” said Sen. Cantwell.
Any farmer in Adams, Benton, Chelan, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Kittitas, Klickitat, Okanogan, Walla Walla, or Yakima counties that lost more than 30% of crops or livestock due to excessive heat qualifies for the loan.
Other counties may qualify according to the USDA. Applications are available online
Each farmer is eligible for a loan of up to $500,000.
“Through no fault of their own, our cherry growers experienced immense challenges and economic losses last season, with data showing growers experienced losses of more than 50 percent,” said Rep. Schrier. “That’s why I proudly joined my colleagues in the Washington delegation in calling for a disaster declaration to help our growers recover and prepare for this upcoming growing season, and I’m pleased to see the administration officially make this declaration.”
Warm temperatures and low snowpack could lead to a potential drought according to the NWS.
