Farmers in Wales are being urged to seek help now after authorities moved to provide targeted funding and temporary flexibility to cope with ongoing dry weather that is placing pressure on water supplies, pastures and livestock.
What has been announced
The Welsh Government has opened the Capital Production and Efficiency grant to fund climate adaptation measures such as boreholes, water-harvesting equipment and improved ventilation systems for cattle housing. Ministers have also signalled greater flexibility under the Sustainable Farming Scheme for farmers and growers who cannot meet scheme requirements because of current conditions.
"We recognise the pressures facing farmers and growers during prolonged dry weather conditions, including impacts on livestock, crops, and farm businesses," said Llyr Gruffydd, Wales' cabinet minister for rural resilience and sustainability.
The move is framed as part of a wider policy package. Mr Gruffydd noted the government has committed more than £1bn this Senedd term to support sustainable agriculture and pointed to the Water Reform Programme as a long-term initiative to take fuller control of water in Wales.
Practical measures and immediate steps
Officials are advising farmers to take practical action now to protect animals and crops and to consider applying for support where appropriate. Key steps include:
- Seek immediate veterinary advice if animal welfare is a concern.
- Document crop and pasture conditions with photographs if applying for temporary derogation through the RPW online account.
- Explore the Capital Production and Efficiency grant for investments such as boreholes, water harvesting and ventilation fans for cattle housing.
- Check guidance on protecting livestock and horses from extreme weather on the Welsh Government website.
The government has emphasised that applications for temporary derogation under the Sustainable Farming Scheme should be supported with photographic evidence of crop conditions. This is intended to allow scheme participants and those delivering preparatory scheme contracts to avoid penalties where requirements cannot reasonably be met because of the dry weather.
Why this matters
Agriculture is particularly vulnerable to prolonged heat and drought. Reduced crop yields, damaged pastureland, increased competition for scarce water and compromised animal welfare are immediate consequences. The Welsh announcement aims to reduce immediate hardship for farm businesses while encouraging longer-term resilience investments.
| Support measure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Capital Production and Efficiency grant | Funds climate adaptation equipment (boreholes, water harvesting, ventilation) |
| Temporary derogation via RPW | Permits flexibility in Sustainable Farming Scheme obligations where weather prevents compliance |
| Water Reform Programme | Longer-term control and management of water resources in Wales |
Farmers who act quickly to assess needs and apply for available funding are more likely to secure support for equipment that can ease pressure over the coming months. Practical adaptations such as water-harvesting systems or improved livestock ventilation can reduce immediate welfare risks and deliver benefits in future dry periods.
Context and outlook
While short-term measures are vital, officials and experts reiterate that the underlying challenge is expected to grow. Research cited by the Welsh Government points to climate change increasing the frequency and severity of heatwaves and drought, which will exacerbate risks to agriculture over time.
For now, the message from ministers is clear: use the available schemes, document adverse conditions, and seek professional advice where animal welfare or farm viability is at stake. The combination of capital grants and temporary flexibility is designed to ease immediate pressures while encouraging investment in resilience.
Farmers and advisers should consult the Welsh Government website and the RPW online account for full details on how to apply, and consider early engagement with vets, agronomists and local advisers to make the most of the support being offered.
