Maryland's farms face ruin after devastating spring freeze wipes out crops

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a Secretarial Disaster Declaration for Maryland following a spring freeze that devastated crops. Early on April 21, temperatures plunged into the low 20s, causing widespread damage to farms already struggling under severe drought conditions. Governor Wes Moore requested the designation after the cold snap left many specialty crops in ruins. The freeze struck during a critical growing period, destroying fruit trees, grapevines, and other specialty crops. By mid-April, losses became evident, with some counties reporting 94% of apple crops, 99% of peach crops, and 98% of barley crops wiped out. The Maryland Wineries Association later estimated $2.4 million in losses for local wineries alone.

Governor Moore formally sought federal assistance in May, citing 'catastrophic damage' across the state. The USDA responded by designating 12 Maryland counties as primary natural disaster areas. Six additional counties were reviewed, but their production losses could not be determined at the time of the declaration.

The disaster designation unlocks support for affected farmers. Eligible producers can now apply for low-interest emergency loans and credit extensions to cover production costs and safeguard jobs. The federal declaration provides financial relief to farmers facing severe crop losses. It aims to stabilise agricultural operations and protect thousands of jobs in Maryland. The move follows one of the most damaging freezes in recent years for the state’s farming community.