Michigan cherry growers say they're happy to see the USDA will purchase $20 million worth of surplus cherry product as part of coronavirus relief.
But the industry may need long term investment to stay afloat.
The USDA purchase is part of efforts under the CARES Act to strengthen federal food assistance programs during the pandemic.
In 2019 the USDA purchased roughly $30-million worth of tart cherry products. It purchased $25-million in 2018.
Don Gregory is part owner of Cherry Bay Orchards in Suttons Bay. He said he’s hopeful the USDA purchase will help lift cherry prices.
“If we can infuse $20-million into the tart cherry industry that’s going to help pay some bills and hopefully keep people afloat as we straighten things out and try to get into a profitable arena.”
Gregory said much of the money will go towards purchasing finished products from processors - but he’s hopeful some of the money will make it to farmers.
Ben LaCross is a cherry farmer in Leelanau County. He said now is the time to strengthen domestic farmers.
“I think this pandemic and this crisis going on right now hopefully is illustrating that it’s important for our citizens and country to support US farmers so we can have a safe supply of food year in and year out.”
The US cherry industry has struggled to compete against imports from Turkey growers say have undercut them.
Dumping charges were filed against Turkey, but the international trade commission ruled in favor of Turkish exporters earlier this year.