Alsace farmers demand state aid as drought devastates crops

Around 50 farmers in Bas-Rhin, Alsace, met Tuesday to assess an exceptional drought and demand state financial aid. The sector faces critical losses, with some areas seeing up to 80% crop damage. The meeting in Zehnacker, attended by a prefecture official, highlighted 51 days without rain since May. Farmers reported 50-80% corn losses and warned of future fodder shortages, with all production types affected. Farmers requested tax exemptions and financial support. The state representative promised measures, with a drought committee to be organized in coming days.