New Jersey Governor Declares State of Emergency After April Freeze Damages Crops

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency on Wednesday after an April cold snap damaged an estimated $300 million in crops. The governor signed an executive order and sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins requesting a formal Disaster Designation.

The designation would unlock federal funds for New Jersey farmers affected by the freeze. 5 billion in wholesale value annually.

April temperatures rose to summer levels for two days, prompting some crops to flower early. Temperatures then dropped below freezing from April 19 to April 22, damaging the early blooms. Almost all fruits were affected, including blueberries, the state's top-selling crop. Some farmers reported losses of up to 90 percent, ending their season early.

Sherrill stated that the executive order mobilizes state resources to assist impacted growers. The order directs agencies to reduce administrative delays in delivering aid to farmers and families. Schober Orchards owner John Hurff told CBS News that his peaches were damaged and that dry conditions added stress to the plants.

The governor's statement noted that the agricultural sector supports the state's economy and that the losses require government response.