'East Cork, it's like the Sahara Desert': Dread sets in as drought conditions continue
Farmers in East Cork, Ireland, are facing severe drought conditions that are significantly worse than the 2018 crisis. The lack of grass growth is forcing farmers to make difficult decisions regarding livestock management and winter feed supplies.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing impact of climate change on agricultural stability and food security in regional economies.
Wed, 19 Aug, 2026 - 14:00 Zoe Geary
Irish farm advisors are dreading conversations with farmers as grass growth stalls and winter feed stocks come under pressure, warning that this drought is worse than 2018 and that, without substantial rain, relief may arrive too late.
Tim Casey, CEO and Founder of Cork Grassland Services, said the persistent poor grass growth is taking a toll on both advisers and farmers.
"Day by day, I'm getting more and more depressed… I nearly dread meeting the farmers now after our measurements. Every week it's more bad news.”
Many farmers are entering a period when grass reserves should be building, but instead finding themselves with little or no surplus, Mr Casey said difficult decisions now lie ahead.
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