Wet conditions in 2016 led to smaller than average olive crops for Western Australian farmers. With the next three months a critical period, many are hoping for better outcomes, but remain at risk due to lack of insurance.
After months of bad weather and torrential downpours in the most important olive-growing months of 2016, olive farmers in Western Australia are hoping for the start of 2017 to be dry, in order to combat the losses experienced from wet conditions the year before.
Australia, as a whole, experienced several months of wet conditions in 2016 — something that’s proved a boon for livestock farmers but a curse for many involved in agriculture. And while current weather conditions are optimal, many farmers remain at high risk of massive losses due to a lack of insurance.
See Also:Complete Coverage of the 2016 Olive Harvest
There are an estimated 1.5 million olive trees in Western Australia alone, which thrive best in dry, moderate-to-warm temperatures and function poorly in weather extremes. In areas where rain is usually scarce, a disruption to the usual patterns of rainfall can also cause inconsistent cropping issues.
Olive farmers were forced to harvest their crops early due to the warm and wet weather experienced in the last year’s first quarter and had smaller yields to show for it.
Overly moist and warm climate leads to premature ripening, creating poor fruit set and destroying plant tissue. Early and heavy rainfall is absorbed by the olives which swell and fall off the tree, and the persistent moisture can lead to the trees developing sooty mold, a black powdery coating that envelops the tree, tainting the fruit and its oil as well as negatively impacting the tree’s ability to photosynthesize.
While heavy rain proves beneficial for the grove itself, it does not bode well for the successful production of olive oil. In instances where the olives become spoiled, some farmers bring in wild goats to consume the overripe waterlogged olives carpeting the grove floor.
Despite last year’s outcomes, farmers are optimistic about 2017, with general farming production set to exceed $60 billion for the first time, thanks in part to increasing cattle and sheep exports. The wet weather that spells disaster for olive farmers is one that actually benefits livestock farmers, as it increases the amount of natural growing feed for their animals.
Another reason for optimism is that the call for warm weather seems likely to be heeded, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F) in certain parts of the state. However, experts are still strongly recommending that farmers take up insurance, as current figures show that only one percent of Australian farmers have coverage.
This low level could be attributed to the fact that Australian farmers pay stamp duty percentages exceeding 10 percent on their insurance premiums. In addition, most multi-peril crop insurance policies (which are taken out at the beginning of each farming season as a safeguard against the entire season’s loss) do not cover natural events such as flooding and heavy rainfall.
An alternative is index insurance, which covers events verified by weather bureau data, but this policy is unpopular with certain underwriters due to the high volume of payments it has incurred over the years.
More articles on: 2016 olive harvest, Australia, drought
Mar. 21, 2024
New Law in Italy Incentivizes Young People to Become Farmers
The legislation includes favorable tax rates for young people starting businesses, along with grants to buy land and equipment.
Jan. 29, 2024
Experts Predict Bigger Swings Between Wet and Dry Years in California
Investing in infrastructure and management techniques can help olive growers protect crops from flooding and save water for droughts.
Feb. 26, 2024
Australian Olive Growers Begin Harvest With Mixed Expectations
A light crop year is expected to lead to a limited supply and higher prices.
Feb. 19, 2024
Fourth Generation of Sicilian Farmers Celebrate Local Cultivars
In southeastern Sicily, the producers behind Vernèra share a sense of social responsibility and environmental sustainability.
Sep. 11, 2023
A nongovernmental organization seeks to plant 50,000 olive trees across Gaza and the West Bank to improve the economic outlook of Palestinians.
Oct. 26, 2023
Slovenian Producers Expect Low Harvest Due to Extreme Weather, Off-Year
With the harvest getting underway in Slovenia, expectations differ from producer to producer, but few are optimistic.
Jan. 5, 2024
Buoyed by Awards, the Pope’s Official EVOO Producer Looks Ahead to Harvest
Pontiffs have traditionally favored extra virgin olive oils of Lazio. Domenico Sperlonga is following in the footsteps of his forefathers to serve Pope Francis.
Feb. 6, 2024
The Secrets to Successful Olive Oil Production in Peru
In an unconventional olive-growing location, the founder of Oasis Olives confronts an extraordinary set of challenges.