USDA Disaster Deceleration declared for growers in 32 New York Counties who suffered crop loss from extreme spring weather

ALBANY, NY- Untimely frosts and freezes from this spring have prompted a USDA Disaster Declaration for growers across 32 New York Counties who suffered from crop loss.

“New York’s growers experienced significant damage early this year with some losing an entire growing season and reporting tens of millions in economic loss,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.

Authorities are citing cold spells that significantly impacted many fruit operations, including apple, stone fruit, grape and strawberry growers.

To date, producers that reported in these 32 counties, including here in the Mohawk Valley and North Country, have experienced an estimated loss of more than $30 million.

Disaster Designation allows affected farmers to apply for USDA low-interest emergency loans.

This designation was granted after a request for a disaster declaration by Governor Hochul on May 19, 2026.

Specifically, the USDA has documented three different freeze periods that impacted growers twice in April and once in May.

According to the Governor’s office, New York is a major specialty crop state. The apple, grape and stone fruit industries represent an important and large component of New York’s agricultural economy.

New York ranks second in the country for apple production and third for grapes, for example.

The apple industry alone generates $574 million in economic impact. These crops also play an important role in wholesale markets as well as retail and direct pick-your own sales.

Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.