Rains impact agricultural production and logistics in Rio Grande do Sul

The heavy rains that have hit Rio Grande do Sul in recent days have had a strong impact on the state's agriculture. In addition to the losses suffered in crops due to the floods, the compromise of logistics is one of the main challenges at this time. This is what the president of the Agriculture Federation of the State of Rio Grande do Sul (Farsul) points out, Gedeão Pereira (in the photo below).

According to Gedeão, the situation is quite serious. “This northern half of RS, which is a region that produces soybeans, corn, dairy farming, poultry and pig farming, as well as fruit and vegetables, was greatly affected. Not only because of the impact of the rain itself, but also because it destroyed infrastructure. Today the logistics are completely compromised,” he explains. 

From an agricultural point of view, the president of the federation points out that the lack of logistics affects several points, such as the lack of fuel and food supplies. In addition to the lack of feed, directly impacting poultry and pig farming. Another sector facing difficulties is dairy farming and fruit and vegetable farming, which will not be able to sell its production. 

From the point of view of grain production, Gedeão states that the impact was even stronger. Even though the harvest is advanced, with more than 50% of soybean and rice crops harvested, the rains severely affected crops. “Soybeans were dropped, pods burst, and the product is being lost. On the slopes of the rivers, crops are heavily affected, especially rice,” he says. 

“What worries us now are the weather conditions, as this excess rain could start to spoil the soybeans as well. But, if the sun and more favorable conditions still come, it will be possible to harvest those crops that were not underwater”, he highlights. 

According to Gedeão, the Federation is monitoring the situation closely, especially the work of Civil Defense and government officials to save lives. “Our stage comes next, helping rural producers who were devastated with some type of financial resource. Mainly working on ensuring that these affected producers can remain viable, as they will not have the resources to pay the bills”, emphasizes the president. 

Gedeão signals that a joint effort with the Federal Government will be necessary to assist rural producers, highlighting that the fundamental role of Farsul and the CNA at this time will be to seek solutions for debt rollover, ensuring greater security for farmers.