As usual attention turns to the price of straw at this time of the year. With the drought-like conditions having pertained up til the middle of June, the effect on growth has been remarkable throughout the country. The lack of rain equals lack of growth equation is a stark reminder of how the weather has knock-on economic consequences.
The Irish straw market is potentially facing a shortfall of over three million bales, based on the latest estimates from the industry indicating a halving of supplies.
The Farmers’ Journal reports that: “a combination of dry conditions and a reduction in winter crop plantings of over 40% are sure to result in a severe decrease in straw supply. “
IFA tillage chair Mark BrowneBrowne said: “It is estimated that barley straw availability will reduce by 300,000t and wheaten straw by 200,000t compared to last year. This is almost a 50% reduction in supply.”
