Drought induces lower crop yields

Drought is exacting a cost on farmers in many parts of Switzerland who are expecting reduced harvests as a result of the dry weather.

Tobacco farmers in the Broye region of Vaud, where 450 hectares are committed to the cigarette leaf, are among those counting the expected costs.

They expect their yields 20 percent lower than in usual years, according to media reports.

Cereal farmers in western Switzerland are expecting a reduction in crop production of 10 to 20 percent due to adverse weather conditions.

Dry conditions combined with hail, wind and heavy rain from storms have taken their toll.

The storms have not brought enough moisture to aid crops, while hail has caused significant damage.

Poor condition for wheat is likely to send much of the harvest for forage instead of flour for bakers.

Some dairy farmers, meanwhile are fretting that their stocks of hay will be insufficient for the coming winter, according to a report from Le Temps newspaper.