Oats are a tough crop and more adaptable to weather extremes – IOA Column in the Farming Independent

While the rest of the country has been basking in sunshine in recent weeks farmers have struggled as soaring temperatures combined with no rainfall have made conditions extremely difficult. Indeed, the last twelve months have been challenging for farmers with weather extremes bringing an unpredictability to the business of producing food. According to Met Eireann May and June were the driest in 168years and soil moisture deficits are reaching record heights. Last week the Joint Committee on Agriculture Food and the Marine published its timely report “Climate Change and Sustainability in the Agriculture and Food Sectors”. The report makes 35 recommendations that identify potential policy solutions to tackle climate change.

The conventional tillage sector is one area feeling the pressure of weather patterns associated with climate change. Donald Tracey is an organic cereal farmer in Kildare and in this month’s feature you can read how he is coping with the drought. To read the full article please CLICK HERE