Archive · 16 Aug 2025
Michigan Cherry Farmers Struggle Amidst Weather, Policy Changes
Imagine farmers growing cherries in Michigan.
They are having a tough time!
First, the weather is hurting the cherry trees.
Then, it's hard to get workers to pick the cherries because of visa delays.
The government is also changing rules, like how much money they get to help their farms.
Things like trade wars with other countries and cuts in government programs have made things worse, too.
These farmers are trying to keep their businesses running despite all these challenges, hoping for some help to make things easier.
Michigan's tart cherry farmers face challenges, including crop loss from weather and delays in securing H-2A visas.
Farmers are impacted by changes in government services, immigration, and trade policies.
U.S. fresh fruit exports fell in volume and value during Trump's trade wars, while some farmers hope for a more surgical approach to tariffs.
A labor squeeze affects growers, with some farms experiencing worker shortages.
Federal funding for farm programs and research faces cuts, and growers struggle with rising costs.
- Who
- Michigan cherry farmers, including the King family and Emily Miezio, are facing these hardships, along with the impact of federal policies.
- What
- Michigan tart cherry farmers are struggling due to crop loss, labor shortages, and changes in government policies.
- When
- The article focuses on the current challenges, with issues stemming from recent years and specific incidents in the past.
- Where
- The primary focus is on the cherry farms in Michigan, specifically near Grand Traverse Bay and Suttons Bay, with mentions of Washington state and Guatemala.
- Why
- Farmers are facing challenges due to crop loss from weather, labor shortages, changes in government services, immigration, and trade policies.
Growers' Concerns
Government Responses
Trade Policy and Funding
Growers' Concerns
Farmers express concerns about the impact of tariffs on cherry exports and government funding cuts.
Government Responses
Some government officials claim that the recent laws have expanded the safety nets for farmers.
Labor and Immigration
Growers' Concerns
Farmers are worried about a labor squeeze, with shortages and visa delays affecting the harvest.
Government Responses
The White House says it is committed to ensuring farmers have the workforce they need.
- Industry
- U.S. tart cherry industry
- Location
- Michigan (Grand Traverse Bay Area)
- Primary Crop
- Tart Cherries
- Crop Loss
- 41% drop in tart cherry crop compared to 2024
- Export Impact
- U.S. fresh fruit exports fell 17% in volume and 15% in value during trade wars