The Swedish Agricultural Federation (LRF) is warning growers about the consequences of a second warm, dry summer. In a normal year around three percent of the Swedish agricultural area is irrigated. If needed this could be expanded to nine percent, as long as the equipment and water are there. Ninety percent of the total area, however, will have to do without extra water.
Although there is sufficient water in Sweden, there is a lack of clear infrastructure for irrigation, simply because there has been no need for it until now. It is only now that many growers are considering purchasing an irrigation system. This is a considerable investment and it is hard for individual growers to determine whether it will be worth it in the long term. No one knows how many dry years there will be. Those companies selling irrigation installations have their order lists full, in any case.
LRF reports that growers and agriculturalists can adjust their subsidy application until June 17.
Source: www.ja.se