A lack of sufficient rainfall during the summer has resulted in challenging growing conditions for farmers in Newfoundland and Labrador. This has led to a shortage of hay and other essential forage for their livestock.
Andrew Tourneur of Humber Valley Holsteins in Little Rapids noted that hay production on his farm is only at about 70% of normal levels due to the dry weather. He emphasized that the shortage is more pronounced in eastern regions, affecting various crops due to the lack of precipitation hindering plant growth.
The diminished hay supply has put some farmers in a difficult position, prompting them to consider alternative forage options like straw, which is more abundant but lacks the same nutritional value for the animals. As the Halloween season approaches, Clarence Russell, a seasoned farmer and hay cutter from Otterbury, has redirected his hay sales to prioritize livestock farmers over decorative uses.
Russell highlighted the significant decrease in his hay bale production this year compared to previous years, attributing it to the dry conditions. With his farm running out of hay earlier than usual, a second cut seems unlikely. Both Tourneur and Russell expressed concerns about the scarcity of hay in the upcoming months.
Tourneur called for government support, suggesting potential subsidies to assist farms in coping with the forage shortage. Liberal Leader John Hogan has committed to collaborating with producers to ensure a stable supply of animal feed in the face of climate change challenges like this summer’s drought.
Looking ahead, Tourneur pondered the long-term impact of drier summers on forage production in Newfoundland, expressing worry about the potential consequences for livestock owners who may struggle to feed their animals adequately.