A devastating April freeze has pushed New Jersey’s agricultural sector into crisis, prompting Mikie Sherrill to declare a statewide emergency after officials estimated at least $300 million in crop losses across the Garden State.
WEBDESK – NJNEWSLINE
TRENTON — New Jersey farmers are facing one of the worst agricultural disasters in recent years after an abrupt cold snap in April severely damaged fruit and berry crops statewide, threatening local produce supplies and potentially driving up summer grocery prices.
Gov. Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 18 on Tuesday, declaring a state of emergency in all 21 counties following widespread freeze damage that struck farms between April 19 and April 22.
According to state officials, the freeze came immediately after an unusual warm spell that accelerated plant growth and left crops highly vulnerable when temperatures suddenly plunged below freezing.
The hardest-hit sectors include tree fruit orchards and berry farms, where blossoms and newly developing fruit suffered extensive damage during a critical stage of the growing season.
Officials said some growers reported losses exceeding 30%, while others are now expecting total crop failures.
“Our farming families are hurting, and I won’t stand by and let it happen,” Sherrill said while announcing the emergency declaration.
The executive order is intended to speed up relief efforts, reduce regulatory barriers, and allow state agencies to coordinate emergency assistance for affected farms.
Agriculture officials warned the economic fallout could extend beyond farms and affect consumers throughout the summer, especially as reduced local harvests may tighten produce supplies and contribute to higher grocery prices.
New Jersey Agriculture Secretary Ed Wengryn said the state is now seeking federal disaster assistance as damage assessments continue.
“This executive order cuts through bureaucracy and opens the door to immediate assistance for our tree fruit and berry growers, while laying the groundwork for broader relief ahead,” Wengryn said.
Officials added that the full financial impact of the freeze is still unfolding and could worsen in the coming weeks as additional crop assessments are completed.
