Ukraine: Winter crops losses due to drought estimated at 2.6% of all areas planted

The losses of winter crops due to drought in Ukraine are estimated at 234,000 ha, which is 2.6% of all areas with winter crops, the Ministry for Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture has told Interfax-Ukraine.

According to the ministry, the most affected by the drought are winter rape crops – 103,000 ha, wheat – 74,000 ha, barley – 53,000 ha, and peas – 1,300 0 ha.

Potential crop losses in 2020/2021 agri-year for winter wheat are 216,650 tonnes, winter rape – 211,890 tonnes, winter barley – 150,820 tonnes, sugar beets – 50,030 tonnes, peas – 3,050 tonnes, winter rye – 539 tonnes.

At the same time, the Ministry of Economy estimates the possible loss of revenue for winter rape at UAH2.14 billion (19% of the possible income from crops), winter wheat – UAH0.99 billion (3%), winter barley – UAH0.63 billion (12%), and sugar beets – UAH0.03 billion (2%).

“In March-April this year, there was rainfall deficit throughout Ukraine. As a result, spring air drought developed and deepened, which combined with soil drought in many areas of the southern regions,” the ministry said.

According to the Ministry of Economy, in Odessa region, where there is the longest and most severe rainfall deficit since last summer, agrometeorological conditions for the growth and development of crops were estimated as close to critical. In many areas, due to lack of moisture in the soil, plant development was delayed, crops were depressed.

“Rains in early May relieved the stress of drought in many areas of the northwestern part of the country. However, drought as of May 5 continued to be recorded in Odessa, Kherson regions, most of Zaporizhia and Mykolaiv regions,” the ministry said.

According to the Economy Ministry, Odesa region suffered most of all, where, according to preliminary estimates, 148,000 has are considered lost, which is 15% of all areas with winter crops in the region.

“Of these, 10% of winter wheat, 62% of winter rape and 21% of barley died as a result of adverse weather conditions. Updating information on the situation in the region continues,” the ministry said.

According to the data provided by the regions, the structural divisions of the regional administrations will submit for the provision of financial assistance to the affected farmers from the reserve fund.

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