Battle for grain: Farmers in the northern Black Forest explain their challenges

Battle for grain: Farmers in the northern Black Forest explain their challenges

On June 15, 2025, farmers in the northern Black Forest are facing a number of challenges during the current grain harvest. The region has currently prepared for a public field tour to give citizens a better understanding of the complex work of farmers. How Black Forest messenger reports, farmers follow strict guidelines from nature and the law while harvesting, among other things, barley and other grains.

The aim of the event is to educate visitors about the work that goes into producing essential foods such as bread. The drama of this situation is heightened by the current climatic conditions.

Harvest forecasts in Germany

According to the Commission's MARS report, the average wheat yield in the EU this year is estimated at around 5.83 tonnes per hectare, an increase of 8% compared to last year. In Germany, a wheat yield of 7.48 tons per hectare is forecast, which is 6% more than last year. These figures make it clear that despite the challenging climate, some regions in the EU, such as Spain and the Black Sea region, can expect above-average yields. Agricultural today highlights that corn is also making better yields this season. The EU average is estimated at 7.45 tonnes per hectare, which is 11% more than last year.

Although the forecasts are optimistic, the ongoing drought still poses a significant threat to yields. In Germany, the corn yield of 9.82 tons per hectare is expected to be in the range of the long-term average. Rapeseed yields are average, but are also subject to current weather conditions, which pose a challenge for many farmers.

Regional differences and challenges

The differences in yields are clearly noticeable. While the south of Germany is less affected by the drought, many farmers elsewhere are struggling with significant yield losses. For the sunflower crop, however, a significant increase in yields of 2.09 tonnes per hectare is expected in the EU, which is 21% higher than last year.

The current situation highlights the fragile balance between agriculture and the challenges that the weather brings. The public field tour could therefore not only provide a better understanding of agriculture, but also raise awareness of the urgent issues surrounding food production in times of climate change.