NFU Cymru Brecon & Radnor County Adviser, Stella Owen discusses the unique set of challenges the recent weather has created for farmers.

A significant amount of rain has fallen in Wales in the last month with storms causing a devastating amount of damage to towns and rural communities. Farmland has been drowned in water with many farmers having to rescue stock from lower ground

In the aftermath of the floods, there are many concerns for farmers such as boundary fences that have been lost due to floodwater that will need replacing, debris from floodwater covering agricultural land and the impact that water lying on fields for significant periods of time will have on crops planted last autumn. The full impact of this period of wet weather will not be known for some time.

A flood and its aftermath can pose a unique set of challenges for livestock owners. Initially, it is vital that producers prioritise their immediate animal welfare responsibilities by ensuring stock have adequate access to food, water and shelter. Prolonged wet conditions can lead to significant feed shortages

Farm buildings and boundaries have taken a significant battering in the recent storms and in many cases, it is likely that repairs will be needed. I urge farmers when planning any essential and immediate work to put health and safety issues uppermost in their thoughts.

There are a number of preventative steps farmers can take while the weather is calm, such as identifying safer ground to move livestock to in the event of flooding or snow, but human safety should always be paramount.

It is also worth noting alternative fuel and power sources in case of a power cut or disruption, such as making sure generators are in working condition and able to run at full load for extended periods of time.

It is important to keep up to date with weather warnings and regularly inspect your farm, keeping on top of repairs to buildings, fences and walls while the weather is calm. Check that tiles, slates and roofing sheets are in place and put away items that cannot be secured.

With further bad weather forecast NFU Cymru is urging farmers to stay safe. The union is also encouraging farmers struggling with the financial and emotional impact of the recent flooding to seek the help that is available.

We should also not underestimate the strain that this extreme weather is having on the mental health of Wales’ farmers, adding to the pressures imposed by hikes in feed, fuel and fertiliser prices and the impact this is having on margins. It is absolutely vital that, as an industry, we support each other and look out for one another. If you need to talk to someone reach out to a family member, friend or a neighbour, or seek support from one of the excellent rural charities we have in Wales. Please do not suffer in silence.

Farmers who are experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety or financial hardship as a result of recent are encouraged to seek support from the Farming Community Network (03000 111 999), RABI (0800 1884444) or the DPJ Foundation (0800 587 4262).