High temperatures and low rainfall are putting Italian framers into serious pain.
Italy’s national agricultural organization said the drought has cost farmers $1.12 billion so far this year. No end is predicted.
Like much of the world, Italy is suffering through scorching heat and no rain.
The country’s farming regions are being financially ruined.
The nation’s largest agricultural organization, the Coldiretti Group, puts the cost at $1.12 billion. Worse news, the growing season is far from over—and no rain is predicted.
The government in the north has declared a state of emergency.
Livestock is suffering, unable to find grazing or water.
This affects ham, cheese, and wool production.
The areas around Parma and Piacenza usually produce tomatoes, cheese, and high-quality ham. The cows cannot produce milk nor the pigs be fattened. The tomatoes might not grow at all.
Mozzarella makers around Naples face the same problems.
Shepherds on the island of Sardinia have taken to blocking highways in an effort to alert the government about the depth of their plight.
Those who appreciate Venetian wines will find this year will not be a noteworthy vintage. Grapes will have to be harvested early before they dry out.
No one knows how high the final bill might be.
Coldiretti is Europe’s largest agricultural professional organization, with a membership of more than 1 million farming families.
