Moreover, it has had far-reaching consequences for the greater South African economy as it impacts on food prices, inflation and even employment.
Maree says the drought has left farmers and stakeholders with invaluable lessons that will impact on the future and sustainability of the industry. It has now become imperative for the industry as a whole to adopt modern farming techniques and strategies in order grow revenue. For smallholder and subsistence farmers, it is now survival of the fittest.
"Regardless of the losses incurred, farmers need to be resilient and focus on the future by implementing survival strategies to deal with disasters, such as the drought," advises Maree:
• Drought management strategy: every farm, big or small should put in place a detailed disaster management strategy that should be updated regularly as circumstances change. For example, a livestock farmer can use this to keep track of herd numbers, knowing exactly when culling should be done.
• Cash flow management: losses and damages incurred as a result of a disaster can severely affect the farm's cash flow. Regardless of the situation, farmers are advised not to abandon their cash flow principles but continue to manage and keep track of finances adequately. "Should problems be foreseen, it is important to involve your financial institution or bank as soon as possible - prevention is better than cure," advises Maree.
• Irrigation strategies: if you are not keeping up with industry standards, now is the time to update your irrigation system. It is imperative that we use available water optimally in a water-scarce country such as South Africa.
• Diversification: diversification of crops and livestock becomes extremely important during drought conditions. Remember, farming is a business. If you miss planting season, you should identify other means of generating income.
• Seed and fertiliser strategies: planting fields that have been affected by the drought may require a much different application of fertiliser. It may also be worth considering using seeds that are more resistant to the drought and provide a better yield.
• Risk management strategy: the overall farm risk management strategy should factor in elements such as hail and crop insurance, with accurate details of how to process claims resulting from a disaster.
• Information gathering: up-to-date information is essential to make informed business decisions in periods of disasters. There are a number of social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook that keep farmers updated on the latest developments in their regions.
• Soil preparation: soil testing is highly recommended as it changes following a drought. This is necessary to ensure that you get the most out of your crop.
• Managing farm costs: carefully managing farm expenses is critical during times of uncertainly. Even the last rand can go a long way.
• Farm feed storage: one of the lessons learned from the current drought is that the amount of feed that livestock farmers kept was not enough. Because of uncertain weather conditions, storage capacity will have to be reviewed and a detailed fodder flow plan needs to be kept at all times.
"Although these strategies are by no means conclusive, they will go a long way to help farmers to deal with the impact of disasters, like the current drought when incorporated into a well-managed farm system. The farming industry in South Africa has been through several hurdles and survived, there is no doubt that it will continue to thrive, even beyond the current drought," concludes Maree.
