TALLAHASSEE, FL – Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson released preliminary estimates from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services showing more than $3.1 billion in agricultural losses from recent winter freezes—one of the most damaging events in state history.
“These unprecedented losses highlight the urgent need for timely support for our farmers, ranchers, and growers who feed our communities and much of the nation during winter,” Simpson said. He thanked President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for their strong backing and pledged quick administration of federal block grant aid to help producers recover and replant.
Key preliminary loss estimates include:
- Sugarcane: $1.15 billion
- Citrus: $675 million
- Strawberries: $307 million
- Greenhouse/Nursery: $240 million
- Sweet Corn: $255 million
- Tomatoes: $164 million
- Bell Peppers: $108 million
- Potatoes: $79 million
- Blueberries: $79 million
- Watermelons: $65 million
Figures are based on USDA data, Florida Census of Agriculture, UF-IFAS assessments, industry surveys, and producer reports. Estimates will be updated as more information is collected.
FDACS is coordinating with producer groups and Florida’s congressional delegation to secure and distribute federal assistance, emphasizing the critical role of Florida’s winter produce in national food security. Recovery efforts, including salvage and replanting, are already underway across affected sectors.
SOURCE: FDACS
