ECONOMY
Disaster declaration urged for vineyard crops
State Sen. Catharine Young, R-Olean, is urging Gov. David A. Paterson to request a federal disaster declaration for vineyard crops in the Lake Erie region— from Erie County, Pa., to Niagara County —that were damaged by frost on May 18.
Young said the crop loss is estimated to be at 25 to 35 percent and will hurt the state’s wine production, which is the third largest in the United States and attracts more than 4 million tourists annually. The total economic benefit to the state last year from New York grapes, grape juice and wine was $3.4 billion.
“This is a devastating blow to an industry that relies so heavily on Mother Nature’s cooperation,” said Young. “The economic impact of this disaster extends well beyond the direct impact to farmers. Tourism, suppliers and local communities will feel the hit as well.”
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