Illustration (Photo: Goodluz / shutterstock.com)
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Republika Srpska Boris Pašalić said that the relevant ministry cannot reimburse the costs incurred due to this year’s drought, but could help prevent drought by building an irrigation system.
– The Ministry co-finances every agricultural producer with 30% of the funds that decides to invest in the irrigation system – Pašalić told reporters in Banja Luka.
He added that there are global estimates that drought will be an increasing problem in the future, which is why it is necessary for agricultural producers to understand that it will not be possible to produce even field crops without irrigation.
– It is necessary for agricultural producers to invest in the irrigation system, and the Ministry will help them through the support within the agrarian budget – Pašalić pointed out.
He said it is too early to talk about drought damage assessment and the amount in terms of production value.
– Due to the drought, we expect problems primarily with the production of corn, because in some areas where there is sandy soil, this plant is not in the condition in which it should be – Pašalić explained.
Pašalić said that the wheat harvest in Republika Srpska has been completed and that the yields are good, and the average is higher than six tons per hectare.
– The quality of the grain is good, and the price of wheat is 36 pfennigs per kilogram and more. Agricultural producers are satisfied, and the Government of Republika Srpska paid 300 BAM per hectare 10 days ago – Pašalić concluded.
