The drought affecting the whole country is now regarded as an exceptional weather event and a case of force majeure, the Ministry of Agriculture announced on Wednesday 2 September. A number of requirements and aid schemes are to be adjusted following a meeting between the Minister Martine Hansen (CSV) and the Chamber of Agriculture.

Farmers who are clearly unable to meet their obligations due to a lack of water will be exempt from penalties. They will, however, have to demonstrate that they attempted to comply with the rules and that the drought prevented them from doing so.

The annual limit on the area of grassland that may be replanted has been suspended. Buffer strips, areas set aside for erosion control and certain catch crops may also be used to produce fodder, provided that their vegetation cover is maintained.

Greater freedom

Farmers also benefit from greater flexibility. The minimum grazing period for cattle has been reduced from three to two months, whilst the five-month requirement has been abolished. The unmown parts of certain plots may be used immediately, without having to wait until 31 October.

For arable land converted to permanent grassland, reseeding will be permitted in spring 2027 if the seeds sown in the autumn have not germinated due to drought.

Organic farms will, subject to certain conditions, be able to use conventional fodder in the event of a shortage. They will also be able to keep their animals in housing temporarily in order to protect the soil, subject to authorisation from the organic certification body of the Administration of Technical Agricultural Services.