Drought triggers emergency appeal for livestock farmers

Livestock farmers across England and Wales are facing a deepening crisis in forage and bedding supplies, as months of drought push the industry to the brink.

In response, the Addington Fund, which incorporates Forage Aid, has today launched an emergency appeal to help the most-in-need livestock farmers struggling with forage and feed supplies ahead of this coming winter. 

The appeal follows an emergency meeting held on Thursday 21 August by the charity’s Forage Aid Committee. With no significant rainfall since March, and forecasts showing little hope of change, Addington warns it could be “too late for many” – even if rain returns now.

See also: Worsening drought situation triggers fodder fears

Lincolnshire arable farmer and Forage Aid founder and current chairman Andrew Ward said: “There have been many extreme weather events and dry periods since Forage Aid was born in 2013, but the current drought is the worst.

“Farming is going through very tough times and we understand the financial pressures everyone is under, so asking for donations of feed or bedding does not come lightly and anything will be greatly appreciated by us and the farmers receiving it.”

Winter feed running out now

With exhausted grass supplies, many cattle have already been brought indoors and farmers are eating into winter feed reserves far too early. Forage stocks – hay, silage and straw – are critically low, poor in quality, and becoming increasingly expensive.

Some farmers are being forced to sell core breeding animals early, not just reducing future income but also taking a significant toll on mental health.

This year’s harvest has also been one of the earliest and lowest yielding in nearly two decades, compounding the feed crisis. Addington warns the situation is not isolated – it is “a national emergency affecting nearly every county”.

Grass supplies are exhausted; many cattle have been brought indoors early, consuming winter feed stocks before autumn has even begun. National groups, MPs, consultants and farmers are all warning of severe fodder shortages.

Call for urgent support

Addington Fund has released emergency grants to support the most vulnerable livestock farmers, but says these funds won’t last through winter without public and industry support.

The charity is also asking for immediate donations and fodder pledges via its website.

The Addington Fund is working closely with the Farming Community Network (FCN) to offer broader support during this worsening crisis. Its FarmWell website contains a range of support and guidance.

If you or someone you know needs emotional support, contact FCN (03000 111 999) or Samaritans (116 123).