TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Farm Bureau is urging farmers to report crop damage after a recent freeze affected orchards, vineyards and other early-season crops across the state.
In a statement released Friday, the organization said unseasonably warm spring temperatures accelerated crop development before overnight freezing conditions struck at a vulnerable time for many agricultural products.
According to the Farm Bureau, farmers are reporting varying levels of damage to peaches, apples, blueberries, strawberries, wine grapes and other specialty crops.
The organization said it is working with Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Farm Service Agency to monitor damage reports and advocate for potential disaster assistance resources for affected growers.
Farmers experiencing damage were encouraged to contact local Farm Service Agency offices immediately and report losses. The Farm Bureau also encouraged producers to reach out to county agricultural extension agents who are collecting documentation related to the freeze event.
Despite the weather damage, the Farm Bureau noted that many local farms continue to offer fresh seasonal products.
The organization also encouraged residents to continue supporting New Jersey’s agricultural industry throughout the growing season.
The Farm Bureau said the state’s agricultural community remains committed to providing food and stewarding farmland despite potential crop reductions this year.
