Alabama agriculture officials urge specialty crop producers to report recent freeze damage to local USDA FSA offices, as early fruit crops show significant losses across parts of the state.

The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is encouraging specialty crop producers across the state to report any crop damage from the recent freeze to their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) county office. These reports are critical in evaluating potential assistance and determining whether a federal disaster declaration may be warranted.

Initial reports from farmers indicate early-season fruit crops were among the hardest hit. Producers in several regions have reported significant losses to early varieties of peaches and plums, while some blueberry varieties also experienced damage. Strawberries and satsumas appear to have largely avoided major impacts, though some growers noted minor bloom loss.

“Freeze events like the one we experienced last week can have a serious impact on Alabama’s specialty crop growers,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “We strongly encourage producers who experienced damage to contact their local FSA office and report those losses. The reports help ensure we have the information needed to support our farmers and pursue any available federal disaster assistance funds.”

ADAI is working closely with the USDA FSA to monitor conditions and assist producers who may be affected. Specialty crop farmers are encouraged to monitor their crops as it may take several days or weeks before the full extent of the damage is known. Freeze events during early bloom stages can cause hidden internal damage to fruit, which may not be visible immediately.

Source - https://www.greenvilleadvocate.com