2012 Weather Extremes Destroy Michigan Fruit Crops

Current estimates project a total loss of more than $223 million to Michigan fruit crops as a result of 2012 weather extremes, including a mild winter, summerlike March and multiple April freezes. 90 percent of the state's $121 million apple crop is projected to be lost. Similar losses are projected for juice grapes, peaches, and both sweet and tart cherries. Only blueberries and wine grapes anticipate having near-normal crops. The losses are far-reaching beyond orchards and will affect local jobs, schools, packers and shippers. Farmers also worry about losing markets long-term.

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