German Farmers Warn of Drought Toll on Grain Harvest
The crop group said higher fuel, fertilizer and pesticide costs are also straining farm finances as yields fall.
- On Tuesday, the German Farmers Association announced Germany's grain harvest is expected to fall 7 percent this year. President Joachim Rukwied forecast a "below-average grain harvest" of 41.9 million tonnes, down 1.5 percent from the five-year average.
- Record-Breaking summer temperatures across Germany and Europe have withered the countryside, with "an overly dry spring and a heatwave in the second half of June" identified as defining factors by the DBV. Limited rainfall sent river levels down across the region.
- Winter rapeseed yields dropped 20 percent, the hardest-hit crop, while winter barley fared better with only 4 percent decline. Apples are also suffering, with Germany's Federal Statistical Office predicting a 17.9 percent decline as fruit drops prematurely due to persistent heat and drought.
- "Overall, the poor harvest comes at a time of economic precariousness," the DBV said. Significantly lower yields combined with high input costs are "placing an enormous strain on the liquidity of many farms."
- DBV President Rukwied requested government emergency aid including early subsidy payouts and diesel tax cuts. Global shortages of oil and raw materials from the Strait of Hormuz conflict have compounded pressures, pushing up prices for diesel, fertilizers, and crop protection products.
26 Articles
26 Articles
According to the Farmers' Association, the grain harvest in Germany is seven percent lower than in 2023. Dryness and heat are affecting farms. Wheat, potatoes and rapeseed are particularly affected.
The drought leaves traces – not only on dried up fields, but also on the shelves of supermarkets. Who is affected and what it costs.
The hot, dry summer in many parts of Germany has caused the yields of farmers to break down. Especially in the south and west the plants suffered extremely. Farmers have to adapt to it. By Anke Hahn.
Due to long drought and heat, German farmers have brought in a much smaller harvest this summer. Hermann Färber, Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, calls for a national emergency to be declared.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 42% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
