Azorean farmers with production losses in maize, horticultural and tobacco crops due to the drought may apply for additional support from August 6 and for a 30-day period, announced the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry.
 
According to the ordinance published today in the Official Journal, "this support measure follows the sharp and persistent decrease in rainfall that has been registered since early March 2018, affecting the aforementioned crops in a very significant manner."
 
Producers whose farms have proven to be affected by the drought may benefit from this aid. They are required to submit a request for support at the Agrarian Development Services of their island.
 
Financial support for proven losses in maize, horticultural and tobacco crops ranges from 25% to 75%. Farmers with losses below 200 Euros are excluded from this additional support scheme.
 
The reference amounts to be considered for maize, horticultural and tobacco crops are stipulated by order of the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry, João Ponte.
 
According to this ordinance, "the support takes into consideration the abnormal weather conditions, namely the sharp and persistent decrease of rainfall registered in the Autonomous Region of the Azores since early March 2018. The drought has significantly affected agricultural soils, leading to a subsequent production drop in maize, horticultural and tobacco crops."
 
With the opening of this application period, the Regional Government fulfils another commitment made to farmers by helping them to minimise an unforeseeable situation and by contributing to the liquidity of farms.
 
Meanwhile, the Regional Government has already implemented an additional support measure for the purchase of 10,000 tonnes of animal feed to cope with the decline in forage crop production.