Apple and Pears Growers’ Association SA CEO Susie Green said with the assessment process now nearly finalised it was clear the impact of the storm was widespread with 95 percent of growers and 85 percent of crops affected to some degree.

“Some blocks fared worse than others,” she said. “Some are complete write-offs and other blocks will be significantly downgraded.  There is also some reported damage in the South East – assessments are being carried out there today.”

Green said APGASA was working with industry and the SA State Government on short, medium and long-term recovery strategies and assistance.

Approximately 13 percent of the crop was netted and she said nets had certainly helped.

“Damage under net varied from almost none to quite significant depending on type, variety, location,” she said. “On average the impact on crops under net was around 10pc. Outside of nets, 80 percent of the area assessed had more than 40 percent damage, and more than half had more than 60 percent damage. About a quarter had more than 80 percent damage.”

Grower meeting:  A growers’ meeting will be held at the Adelaide Hills Council meeting room, 36 Nairne Road, Woodside, SA, 5244, this Friday, 10 November from 8.30 am (breakfast from 7.30 am) to outline management strategies for affected crops.

Full details here.

Source: APAL

Photo: Hail affected 85 percent of crops across the Adelaide Hills. Photo supplied by Susie Green, APGASA