LANSING (AP) -- Gov. Rick Snyder has requested federal disaster assistance for farmers across Michigan who are facing substantial crop losses because of extreme weather conditions.
A rare extended period of summerlike temperatures in March caused trees to blossom early, only to be hit by April frosts and freezes. Farmers and extension agents say the one-two punch has all but wiped out the tart cherry crop, while other orchard fruits such as sweet cherries, apples, pears and peaches have suffered extensive damage.
The governor's request, announced on Friday, is being sent to the U.S. Agriculture Department Secretary Tom Vilsack.
It also cites crop damage due to blizzards, hail, tornadoes, flooding, excessive rain and lightning that occurred between Jan. 1 and May 11.
The governor says the crop losses currently are estimated at $223.5 million.
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