Volcano causes ‘major problems’ for Icelandic farmers
Volcanic ash is causing “significant difficulties” for farmers in Iceland, the country’s farming union has said.
The Farmers Association of Iceland said the eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull glacier had left large quantities of ash on the ground, meaning lambing had been disrupted as sheep could not be let out, the union said.
Lowland flooding due to volcanic activity below the glacier meant roads had been flooded, while ash in the air meant driving to collect milk had proved difficult, it added.
The region affected by the glacier is home to 15% of the country’s cattle, as well as 6% of its sheep flock. More than 10% of Iceland’s dairy production also comes from areas close to the eruption.
Farmers in the region had begun to monitor livestock closely over fears volcanic ash would be toxic to animals, while pig and poultry units which relied on air conditioning were facing problems with ash clogging the systems.
Haraldur Benediktsson, FAI chairman, said the country’s famining minister had set up a special task force to examine the potential impact of the eruption on agriculture.
“Naturally, various questions arise following such disasters concerning the effects of ash fall, potential evacuation of livestock, transportation, insurance issues and food supplies,” he said.
“As yet, no decision has been taken regarding the evacuation of livestock to other parts of the country, but this issue is being discussed.”
Mr Benediktsson said farmers had responded quickly to government recommendations, but producers across the country were being warned to be prepared for ash being blown across to other regions.
“Icelandic agriculture is fragile and not much is needed to seriously upset its balance. Right now vegetation is beginning to re-emerge after the winter,” he added.
“The grazing season lies ahead and lambing starts in earnest in two or three weeks. Should the eruption continue for an extended period, resulting in ash damage to grazing fields and crops, it would constitute a major blow for the region and agriculture in Iceland as a whole.”
Eyjafjallajokull gallery
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• Volcanic cloud hits UK food imports – 20/04/10
• Risk to UK livestock from volcanic ash ‘currently low’ – 16/04/10