- Approximately 14.8% smaller grain yield compared to the previous year.
In Lower Saxony, approximately 4.6 million metric tons of grains, excluding corn, are predicted to be harvested this year - a decrease of approximately 14.2% compared to 2023. This reduction is primarily due to a decrease of about 9.3% in the area dedicated to grains, now at 696,800 hectares, as per the State Statistical Office of Lower Saxony (LSN).
Previous years saw drought-related losses, but this year, it's excessive moisture that's causing trouble. Winter barley, known for its sensitivity to waterlogging, has seen a decrease of 7.6% compared to last year. Winter wheat is expected to see a decrease of 25.5%, mostly due to reduced cultivation areas. Rye is expected to decrease by 4.4% compared to last year.
Persistent rain and flooding
The decrease in cultivation areas is primarily due to persistent rain and flooding in various regions. Many fields could not be sown as planned, either in the fall or the spring. Furthermore, excessive rain fell during the grain filling phase, amounting to 72% more than the long-term average from 1981 to 2023. The Lower Saxony farmers' association Landvolk fears that some operations may incur losses given the low yields.
As a temporary solution, more summer grains were planted. These areas saw an expansion of 109%. Therefore, average yields for summer grains are expected to be up to 40% higher than last year.
Press Release LSN
In spite of the increased area for summer grains due to the Press Release LSN, the overall grain harvest in Lower Saxony is still anticipated to decrease, considering the decrease in winter barley, wheat, and rye. This unfavorable situation is predominantly attributed to the persistent rain and flooding in Lower Saxony.
