Austria alpine pastures face fodder and water shortages

High temperatures and a lack of precipitation during the summer of 2026 have caused significant fodder shortages and water supply issues across numerous alpine pastures in Austria. In several regions, fire departments were deployed to provide water to pasture staff, guests, and livestock.

Josef Obweger, chairman of the Austrian Alpine Farming Interest Group, reported that many pastures failed to produce the usual summer growth, with some vegetation drying out completely. This forced some farmers to bring their cattle down to the valleys several weeks earlier than usual or to supplement their diet with hay deliveries.

Most of Austria's approximately 8,000 managed alpine pastures are located in Tyrol, Carinthia, and Salzburg. Josef Moosbrugger, president of the Austrian Chamber of Agriculture, expressed concern that increasing periods of heat and drought are putting growing pressure on water supplies and fodder bases. Experts suggest that adapted grazing management and increased investment in storage ponds, drinking facilities, and water pipelines will become increasingly essential.