Florida freeze forces Fort Myers Blueberry Festival to find new supplier

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—A tough season for Florida farmers is having a ripple effect far beyond the fields.

The state's agriculture industry has taken a hit from freezes and extreme drought, leading to supply shortages. Those shortages have forced some local event organizers to scramble just to stay afloat.

But in Lee County, one popular festival fought through those challenges, finding a way to keep the tradition alive. What's usually a sweet celebration came with a sour reality this year.

"It was very difficult," said Margaret Buckler, event promoter.

Florida's agriculture industry has been hit hard. A combination of freezes and unpredictable weather left crops damaged and supply low.

That impact is showing up in places you might not expect. Just days before the Fort Myers Blueberry Festival, the event's main supplier backed out simply because there weren't enough blueberries.

"Our regular gentleman who brings the blueberries was unable to get blueberries," Buckler said.

"But the local farm here we were able to secure and buy the blueberries so that our customers could have blueberries and they loved it," Buckler said.

Despite the challenges, the festival went on. Families filled the park, lining up for blueberry treats—from shortcake to fudge.

"They love the berries, and they're very good berries," said Melody Shewman, event worker. "They're local from here, and I've heard a lot of wonderful things about going to that farm."

Even with rain moving through, crowds still showed up. While Florida's weather may be unpredictable, community support is not.

Organizers say they're already looking ahead to next year, hoping for a stronger season but knowing they may have to stay flexible if these agriculture challenges continue.