The CLA (Country Land and Business Association) has commented on the third drought in five years, and the impact it is having on harvests up and down the country. It also calls on government to invest to ensure more resilient farming systems.
CLA President Gavin Lane said:
“Farmers are telling us this is the worst harvest in years. A sodden winter followed by drought has left wheat at half its usual height and some crops not worth harvesting.
“This is the third drought in five years. What was once extraordinary is becoming part of farming in Britain, and government must start planning for it. We know that proper government investment in resilient farming systems, from reservoirs to wildfire prevention, could help farmers cope with these new extremes. And a well-funded Sustainable Farming Incentive, open to all farms regardless of size or type of business, would also give farmers a reliable source of income should the weather wipe out their harvest.
“Farmers have shown again and again that they can adapt and deliver solutions, but resilience has limits. If we want them to keep feeding the country, they need proper support. Otherwise, this harvest could be their last.”
