Alarming drought: farmers in the fight against the water deficit!

Alarming drought: farmers in the fight against the water deficit!

The ongoing drought in Germany has caused a lot of problems for farmers and winegrowers. They have been struggling with a serious lack of water for a long time, especially after an extremely dry spring in 2025, in which hardly any rain fell between the beginning of February and mid-April. According to the MDR, the discussion about climate protection measures is back in full swing, with the richest percent of the population producing more greenhouse gases than two-thirds of the world's population. This raises questions – how much responsibility does each individual have in the context of the climate crisis? Despite the challenges, some farmers have found creative solutions: even the irrigation of their lawns is increasingly powered by solar power.

But what does the current situation mean for agriculture? The increase in drought forces companies to use artificial irrigation, which not only causes additional costs but also increases uncertainty within the industry. According to Deutschlandfunk, young plants and shallow-rooted crops are particularly badly affected. Studies show that the levels of rivers, such as the Rhine, are exceptionally low and the lack of water is so severe that many plants urgently need water. This also has far-reaching ecological consequences: The German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND) warns of the consequences for biodiversity and ecosystems.

The impact on biodiversity

The ongoing lack of water has put pressure not only on agriculture, but also on flora and fauna. According to the BUND, many moisture-dependent habitats and insects are at risk. This situation is now part of a large climate pattern that extends across Europe. The BME report highlights that extreme weather events since 2018 have reduced both the quality and quantity of harvested products and can therefore threaten the existence of many farmers. More than two million hectares of forest in Germany are already affected by climate disasters. The need for appropriate climate adaptation measures is repeatedly emphasized by experts.

Climate change has increased the negative consequences of dry periods by increasing temperatures by around two degrees. Another problem is the persistent lack of spring rain, which puts a lot of strain on the soil and plants. Measures to restore damaged habitats and strengthen biological diversity are also essential.

Measures for a sustainable future

How can this water shortage be solved? Not only long-term strategies are needed, but also short-term measures. Proposals such as intermediate storage and retention basins could help to improve the water balance and ensure groundwater recharge. According to an EU study, the need for action is undisputed because Germany is not alone with its challenges - the whole of Europe is facing similar increased temperatures and water shortages.

Finally, it should be noted that climate change affects us all. Although climate protection and adaptation strategies have been discussed for years, we may only be at the beginning of the best solutions. In the meantime, we must all do our part, both directly and through policy support for policies that benefit not only agriculture but our entire ecosystem.