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Bavaria's Severe Drought Threatens Agriculture and Water Supplies

Bavaria's severe drought is causing water shortages and threatening agriculture. Farmers face smaller yields and rising costs, while municipalities step in with watering restrictions.

In the center of the image there is water. There are fountains. In the background of the image...
In the center of the image there is water. There are fountains. In the background of the image there are buildings, trees, mountains. At the bottom of the image there is grass.

Bavaria's Severe Drought Threatens Agriculture and Water Supplies

Bavaria struggles with severe drought, the worst in 75 years, with southern regions receiving a third less rain than usual over the past eight months. This alarming situation leads to water shortages and poses significant threats to agriculture and public water supplies.

The drought's impact is far-reaching. In Franconia and North Swabia, grain yields are smaller and of lower quality. Even in the Allgäu, typically known for its abundant water, shortages are widespread, affecting farming communities. The German Climate Consortium (DKK) warns that this is a clear sign of the vulnerability of our water systems and the interconnectedness of climate, agriculture, and quality of life.

Targeted irrigation, a potential solution, is economically viable only for a few crops like potatoes or vegetables. This leaves many farmers struggling with rising costs and falling prices, exacerbated by global trade conflicts. The DKK highlights that agriculture, as a major water consumer, is under scrutiny for its water usage. Municipalities are stepping in, independently imposing watering restrictions, including for irrigation.

Bavarian agriculture faces a turning point, following last year's floods and this year's persistent drought. The current crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management and climate-resilient farming practices. As the DKK stresses, the future of Bavarian agriculture and public water supplies hangs in the balance.

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