Farmers face challenges from heatwaves in Finland as climate change impacts agriculture

This summer’s heatwaves have posed challenges for farms in Finland, affecting both livestock and grain yields. Farmers are increasingly aware of the implications of climate change in their daily operations. In Lapinlahti, North Savo, farmers Jouni Rautiainen and Marjo Koistinen recognize that future heatwaves could be even more intense and prolonged. They manage hay and feed grain production on their farm, which houses a herd of around 100 cattle, including 50 dairy cows. Due to the heat, they are considering building a robotic barn to enhance ventilation and implement cooling mist for the cows.

Heat stress has significantly impacted milk production, and Koistinen has alleviated some of the strain by allowing nighttime grazing, keeping the cows cool in the barn during the day. “It has been so tough on them that our milk production has clearly declined,” she reported. The extreme heat can also lead to serious health issues, such as mastitis, which can be fatal; this summer, two cows at their farm were diagnosed, and one had to be euthanized.

For grain crops, the heat has resulted in smaller seed sizes. Early summer heat reduced both seed quantity and the sprouting of new shoots. “If the drought continues, it will affect seed size,” noted Sari Peltonen, a plant production development manager at Proagria. Increased temperatures may improve the survival of plants over winter, but drought can reduce yields and heighten the risk of crop damage.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, grain yields in Finland this year are, on average, performing better than usual. However, not all yield success can be attributed to weather; factors such as soil structure, fertilization, and seed quality also play critical roles in achieving consistent harvests.