Farmers across England are warning of early crop failures after what is shaping up to be the driest start to spring in nearly 70 years, with water levels falling and fears mounting that the country could be headed for another severe summer drought.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) says that some crops are already suffering, as farmers are forced to irrigate fields weeks earlier than usual due to parched conditions. Reservoir levels across the north-east and north-west of England are “notably or exceptionally low,” with March the driest since 1961, and April bringing only half its usual rainfall.
“The dry conditions and lack of any substantial rainfall has meant farmers in some parts of the country have started to irrigate crops much earlier than normal,” said David Exwood, deputy president of the NFU.
“The extreme weather patterns we have experienced over the past few years are impacting our ability to feed the nation.”
Livestock farmers also fear future shortages of grazing if rains do not materialise soon. A significant downpour in early May is now viewed as critical to avoid further yield losses and widespread agricultural disruption.
Support authors and subscribe to content
This is premium stuff. Subscribe to read the entire article.
