The Hudson Valley’s farms are more than businesses. They are part of the region’s identity, a cornerstone of the local economy, and a critical link in New York’s food supply chain. Today, many of those farms are facing a crisis that was entirely beyond their control, making the call by Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino, and Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus for a federal Secretarial Disaster Designation both justified and necessary.

The devastating weather events of April created a perfect storm for fruit and specialty-crop growers across New York. Unseasonably warm temperatures accelerated the growing season, causing trees and vines to bloom weeks earlier than normal. Then came a sudden hard freeze, with temperatures dropping into the low 20s at the worst possible moment. The result was catastrophic. Some growers lost as much as 90 percent of their crop.

For many farms, this year’s harvest represents an entire year’s income. When apples, cherries, grapes, strawberries, pears, and other crops are lost, the impact extends far beyond the farm gate. Workers lose hours and wages. Local businesses that depend on agriculture suffer. Wineries, farm markets, restaurants, and tourism operations all feel the effects. Rural communities throughout Ulster, Dutchess, and Orange counties face economic consequences that could linger for years.

The numbers are staggering. State and local assessments estimate more than $30 million in crop losses across affected regions. For family farms already operating on thin margins, such losses can threaten their long-term survival. Unlike many other industries, farmers cannot simply replace lost inventory. Once a crop is destroyed, it is gone until the next growing season.

The request before the U.S. Department of Agriculture is not a bailout. It is a practical response to a natural disaster. A Secretarial Disaster Designation would provide access to low-interest emergency loans and other relief programs designed specifically for circumstances like these. These tools help farmers recover, maintain operations, retain employees, and prepare for future seasons.

The bipartisan nature of this appeal should not go unnoticed. Leaders from three counties, representing different political perspectives, have united around a common reality: Hudson Valley agriculture matters. Their message is clear and straightforward. Farmers cannot shoulder losses of this magnitude alone.

Agriculture remains one of the Hudson Valley’s defining industries. Apple orchards, vineyards, berry farms, and vegetable operations contribute millions of dollars to the regional economy while preserving open space and maintaining the rural character that residents value. Every farm lost to financial hardship weakens the region’s economic and cultural fabric.

Federal disaster assistance exists for moments exactly like this. The evidence of widespread damage is overwhelming. The financial losses are well documented. The need is urgent.

The USDA should act quickly to approve New York’s request for a Secretarial Disaster Designation. Hudson Valley farmers have endured a devastating blow through no fault of their own. They deserve the support necessary to recover, rebuild, and continue providing the food, jobs, and economic vitality that sustain our communities.

Swift federal action today can help ensure that these farms remain productive and viable for generations to come.