Cherry growers in Michigan are facing major problems. This year, due to cold weather, a large part of the harvest was lost. In some orchards, cherries almost did not grow, and only leaves remained on the trees.
According to experts, the harvest will decrease by more than 40% compared to last year. In northern areas, this figure may reach 70%. This will drastically reduce the income of many farmers.
Farmers also say that political decisions are having a negative impact on them. Due to trade restrictions, demand for American cherries in foreign markets has fallen. As a result, farmers cannot sell their products at good prices.
Another problem is the labor force. Usually, seasonal workers from abroad come for cherry picking. But this year their documents were delayed, and many orchards are suffering from a shortage of workers. Because of this, some farmers could not harvest on time and lost their crops.
Farmers are looking for new ways to keep their livelihood. For example, some orchards invite visitors and let them pick cherries themselves. In addition, scientists are working on creating new, disease-resistant varieties.
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