**Swiss Government Approves CHF 70 million to Aid Farmers and Forest Owners Affected by Drought**
*Bern, 27 August 2026* – The Swiss Federal Council has authorized a total of CHF 70 million in emergency assistance to mitigate the impact of an unprecedented drought on the country’s agricultural and forestry sectors. The funding package comprises CHF 54 million for farms and CHF 17.5 million for forest owners.
The measures come as Switzerland experiences an exceptional dry spell, with rainfall levels recorded up to mid‑August standing among the lowest ever documented for the period. The prolonged lack of precipitation and accompanying heat waves have led to significant stress on crops, livestock, and forest ecosystems.
In a statement, Federal Councilor Albert Rösti, head of the Federal Department of Agriculture, highlighted the severity of the situation: “The current drought conditions are unprecedented in recent Swiss history. Prompt financial support is essential to help our farmers and forest owners preserve their livelihoods and protect the environment.”
The allocated funds are intended to cover a range of relief actions, including:
* Direct subsidies to farmers for crop losses and additional feed for livestock.
* Financial assistance for reforestation and forest management activities aimed at reducing fire risk and supporting tree regeneration.
* Support for the implementation of water‑saving technologies and drought‑resilient practices in both agriculture and forestry.
The emergency program will be administered by the Federal Office for Agriculture and the Federal Office for the Environment, which will oversee the distribution of the aid and monitor its effectiveness. Recipients must apply for the assistance within the deadlines set by the respective agencies.
Switzerland’s drought, described by meteorological authorities as “exceptional” for the 2026 season, underscores growing concerns about climate‑related risks to the nation’s primary production sectors. The government’s rapid response reflects a broader policy focus on climate adaptation and resilience.
Article and image source: lenews.ch
