The California fresh fruit industry – like so many commodities in the Central Valley – has contended with a season unlike any we’ve seen in generations.
Following years of severe drought, this season was bookended with rain events that brought back phantom lakes from the annals of history and a once-in-a-century storm that doused our orchards and vineyards at the absolute worst time.
Hurricane Hilary wrought catastrophic damage on many of the late-season stone fruit orchards that were set to be harvested. So much so, that over 85 percent of our crops in some blocks were obliterated and are no longer economically viable to harvest.
Similarly, in California’s table grape vineyards a projected 25 million boxes, equal to 35 percent of the remaining crop, have been lost. This will result in the smallest crop since 1994.
For American-grown peaches, nectarines, plums, and table grapes to remain on the shelves in grocery stores throughout the country, we need our retailer partners to understand the dynamics we are contending with and to adapt – as we have – to the realities on the ground.
We are asking our retail partners for some understanding. Some have already recalibrated their size and quality specifications to reflect these hard truths. For that, we are grateful. It’s practical steps like these that make a real difference on our end. We can’t change the weather, but with a little flexibility, we can ensure American-grown fruits remain available.
Here’s the thing about fresh fruits: they’re not easy to grow. They need care, attention, and a lot of hard work. When conditions are right, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a ripe, juicy peach or a full bunch of grapes ready for harvest. But this year, with the weather playing tricks on us, we’re struggling to bring in a decent harvest.
The season isn’t over. We still have more fruit on the trees and vines. We’re doing everything we can to protect and nurture it. But if retailers decide to cut the season short, it’s going to hurt. Not just now, but in the coming years.
Farming is more than a job for us; it’s our life. We face challenges every year, but with cooperation and understanding from retailers and consumers, we can weather these storms.
This isn’t just about one rough season; it’s about ensuring that our California fresh fruit tradition carries on.
To our partners in retail, we’re in this together. We’re on the front lines, tending to the crop, and we need your continued support. Help us keep California fresh fruits on kitchen tables across the country.
