Vineyard Owners Encouraged to Report Freeze Damage to Farm Service Agency

Pennsylvania grape growers who experienced injury during the late April 2026 freeze should be aware of recent guidance outlining how to document and report losses to the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). The Pennsylvania Winery Association has shared a practical industry guide that walks vineyard owners through the reporting process, which highlights timely notification, thorough documentation, and direct communication with local FSA offices to preserve eligibility for disaster assistance programs. To access the guide, please visit the PA Wine Association website. Reporting your damage is particularly critical given that the April 20–21 freeze event has already been linked to reduced yield potential and economic losses in perennial cropping systems such as vineyards. By reporting damage, growers optimize potential eligibility in USDA recovery resources and help document more accurate statewide impacts that may inform future policy decisions related to similar events. For further information about related considerations to the April freeze event, please see this Penn State Extension article.