Extreme weather impacts livestock production in Paraguay and Bolivia

Livestock producers in Caazapá, Paraguay, are facing significant challenges due to excessive rainfall. Heavy precipitation has caused rivers to overflow, reducing available grazing land in low-lying areas. In response, producers are adjusting reproductive strategies, postponing certain management tasks, and prioritizing the care of calves and the body condition of cows during the breeding season.

Conversely, the Cochabamba department in Bolivia is suffering from a severe drought affecting the municipalities of Pasorapa, Omereque, and Aiquile. The lack of water has already resulted in the death of at least 100 head of cattle and places approximately 30,000 more at risk. Pasorapa has been declared in a state of emergency, while Omereque is in a state of disaster. Local authorities are seeking urgent supplies of water for human consumption and fodder for livestock as the El Niño phenomenon is expected to impact the region further.