German Farmers' Association Warns of "Significant Losses" Due to Drought's Impact on Crop Production

Berlin, August 14 (KUNA) -- The German Farmers’ Association warned on Friday that the agricultural sector is facing a severe drought, with fears of “significant losses” in crops that could amount to total crop failure in some areas of southern Germany. In a report, the association said that wheat and rapeseed production will likely fall below average, while potato, vegetable, sugar beet, corn, and soybean crops are facing difficult conditions due to persistent water shortages. According to the association, the problem extends beyond crops, as farmers in general are suffering from a shortage of animal feed, particularly in southern Germany, where pastures are no longer producing sufficient quantities. In northern Germany, conditions appear relatively better thanks to rainfall, but forecasts still indicate below-average production. The association explained that some farmers have been forced to seek bank loans, while others have used personal savings or life insurance policies to cover their expenses. It added that farmers are attempting to cope with the new conditions by adopting more water-efficient farming methods, diversifying crops, and implementing techniques such as direct seeding and planting trees between fields to improve microclimatic conditions. The German Farmers’ Association believes that the recurrence of drought periods will make it necessary to develop farming methods and adapt to new climatic conditions, stating that the current crisis is no longer just an environmental issue but has become an economic challenge that is squeezing farmers’ revenues and threatening agricultural production. The drought comes at a time when farmers are already under significant financial pressure due to rising fertilizer prices and falling agricultural product prices. (End)