Brussels: Persistent heat and lack of rainfall in recent months are significantly affecting summer crops and fodder supply across western and central Europe, according to the latest MARS bulletin from the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). The severe weather conditions have particularly impacted regions in France, southern Germany, northern and central Italy, Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, and western Romania.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the high temperatures combined with a scarcity of rain have adversely affected crops and fodder supply. The limited availability of irrigation water has exacerbated the situation in several regions. In the Benelux countries, Slovenia, and Croatia, the hot and dry conditions have led to reduced yield expectations for summer crops, particularly maize. The persistent heat and drought have further reduced pasture availability and biomass accumulation, raising concerns about fodder supply across large parts of western and central Europe.
The JRC MARS bulletin, published monthly, assists the Commission in monitoring agricultural conditions and responding to the challenges faced by farmers. The Commission is dedicated to supporting farmers to ensure the provision of affordable, high-quality food. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) plays a crucial role in making agriculture more resilient and better adapted to climate change by supporting farming practices that enhance resilience and sustainability. The CAP supports investments in efficient irrigation, climate-resilient infrastructure, water-saving technologies, and improved water management, and encourages the shift to more climate-resilient crops.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, highlighted the difficulties faced by farmers during this summer due to drought and extreme heat. These conditions are putting crops, fodder, livestock, and farmers' incomes under pressure. The Commission is actively monitoring the developments and gaining insights directly from the ground. Hansen emphasized the need to prepare for a future with more frequent extreme weather, stressing the importance of supporting farmers today while building resilience for tomorrow.