Maryland's Spring Freeze Triggers USDA Disaster Declaration for Devastated Crops

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared a natural disaster in Maryland after a spring freeze devastated crops. The decision follows a request from Governor Wes Moore, who highlighted the severe impact on local agriculture. Twelve counties now qualify for federal support under the declaration. A cold snap in mid-April brought temperatures into the low 20s on 21 April. This caused widespread damage to specialty crops, including apples, peaches, and barley. In some areas, losses reached 94% for apples, 99% for peaches, and 98% for barley.

Governor Moore sought federal intervention after the freeze exceeded the 30% crop loss threshold required for assistance. The Maryland Wineries Association reported $2.4 million in losses for local wineries. The USDA designated Baltimore, Caroline, Carroll, and nine other counties as primary disaster areas.

The declaration enables affected farmers to apply for low-interest emergency loans and credit extensions. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins noted that production losses in six counties, including Anne Arundel and Calvert, were still under review. Farmers are advised to contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency office to check eligibility and begin the application process. The disaster declaration provides financial relief to help farmers cover production costs. It also aims to safeguard thousands of jobs across the state. Eligible producers can now access federal support to recover from the freeze’s impact.