Marl Farmers Face Drought‑Induced Crop Losses and Rising Costs

Drought conditions and escalating input prices are jeopardising agricultural output in the North Rhine‑Westphalian town of Marl. Farmers report that only 4–8 litres of rain per square metre have fallen in the past six weeks, far below needs for viable grain and potato yields. Local agricultural association chairman warned that without sustained rain the harvest could suffer severe losses, potentially total failure.

At the same time, high diesel and fertilizer prices are eroding farm revenues. Farmer Hubert Franzen estimates that potato cultivation now requires €2,000‑€3,000 per hectare for seeds, fertiliser and protection, costs that are increasingly difficult to recoup. While the rye harvest may meet volume expectations, profitability remains doubtful. The combined pressure of weather scarcity and operating expenses is prompting farmers to reconsider cropping strategies and cost‑cutting measures.