Cherry farming in San Joaquin County is taking a hit this season, thanks to unseasonable rain making its way through the region. Farmers are facing losses that could amount to over 30% across the board, a devastating reality for those who rely on this crop. James Chinchiolo, owner of Lodi Blooms, is no stranger to the ups and downs of farming, with his personal damage estimates hovering around 10 to 15%.
The impact of rain on cherries can be a mixed bag—while it can provide some much-needed moisture, the aftermath can be pretty grim, with cherries cracking leading to mold issues. Chinchiolo describes it aptly: cherry damage feels more like a romantic comedy gone wrong, where the sweet ending becomes a bitter twist.
There is a glimmer of hope, though, as the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation advises that farmers can potentially qualify for assistance with a disaster declaration if they document their losses. Despite the challenges ahead, the cherry festival is still set for May 16, offering the community a chance to celebrate resilience. Here’s hoping these farmers can weather the storm—literally—and bring home some sweet returns by the time the festival rolls around!
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
