By Dermot Keys

Heavy rainfall in the Finn Valley has taken a serious toll on grain crops and could also leave livestock farmers struggling, according to the former Chairperson of the Donegal Executive of the Irish Farmers’ Association.

Donegal grain farmers have been heavily hit and livestock farmers are struggling to secure fodder for the winter.

“In east Donegal, parts of Newtowncunningham and Raphoe have had some very heavy deluges of rain,” George O’Hagan told the Post. 

“The really heavy showers put the grain down so some farmers are finding it very difficult. A lot of grain is coming to harvest and they’re having real problems.

“It’s important that the weather picks up for the grain harvest. Straw is going to be needed. It’s later on in late September that you will see the damage that’s being done.”

Cattle farmers have been hit as well and many are hoping for a better second cut of silage after the first cut turned out very light.  The concern is that farmers will be low on fodder and will struggle to buy fodder in due to financial constraints.

Potato farmers have also encountered difficulties with spraying due to the wet conditions.

“It’s been a difficult year all in all. It was a very, very cold wet spring. There was very poor growth during the month of May. Spring crops were a bit late and needed to get some good weather but the rain devastated them. The grain is now becoming ripe and if it doesn’t get any sun it won’t fill out right.

“Farmers have taken a lot of hits recently. It’s looking like a very bleak picture for grain and livestock farmers.”