Advice and support for farmers following recent dry weather
Dry weather impacts are being observed across the rural sector with support available to those in need.
Addington Fund has supported farmers since the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak, by providing feed and fodder to livestock when extreme weather, certain animal diseases or an accident or illness on the farm prevents the farm from trading and facing an overburden of animals to feed.
Like many, the trustees of the rural charity are closely monitoring the current weather conditions, aware that the prolonged dry spell affecting many counties across England and Wales is likely to result in a shortage of straw and fodder.
While some areas have been fortunate with rainfall and have managed to produce hay and silage, others are facing challenges.
Addington Fund encourages farmers who anticipate a shortfall in fodder or bedding to consider supplementary feeding of store stock now or selling stores before the winter sets in. This proactive step could help reduce pressure over the winter period.
Hay and silage can be made in late autumn which could turn around the current potential shortage of fodder being faced. However, if a farm is shut down and unable to move stock off the farm, and unable to trade, there are options available to provide short-term support through the supply of animal feed or fodder through the Forage Aid Fund, which helps farmers in England and Wales (with a Defra holding number) with short term support.
Fore more information visit Disaster Relief — Addington Fund.