August 2, 2023

Estonia's dairy sector hampered by shortage of winter fodder

Unfavorable weather conditions have dented not only Estonia's agriculture industry but also affected the country's dairy farms — severely to the point that in some places, fodder was provided only for half of winter.

On July 31, Estonian news programme Aktuaalne Kaamera reported that the lack of fodder and the corresponding increase in its prices make it necessary to consider reducing herds.

The Viraito farming collective uses silage made from this year's early harvest to feed cows. Collective agronomist Riho Kens said that in a normal year at this time, three-quarters of fodder for the winter would have been procured, but currently, half has been collected at best. He added that the situation is mitigated by a fairly good corn harvest.

Agricultural company Pajusi ABF stated that in past years, around six thousand rolls of hay were collected at this time, but this year, there are only 410 rolls. Only 1,500 tonnes of silage was procured instead of the usual 4,000 tonnes, and part of it was obtained from processed cereals.

Pajusi ABF manager and owner Lembit Paal said about half are still missing.

Paal added that the cattle have already been given this year's silage, while the lack of feed and rising costs will also affect milk prices.

The head of Pajusi ABF stated that many who applied for grazing subsidies were unable to procure fodder, which means that the herds will be eliminated at the end of August or in the September-October period.

Milk procurement prices are currently low, but after the completion of a new dairy complex in Paide, demand will rise again, and so will prices.

- BNN