El Salvador protects harvests from El Niño impact with strategic measures

El Salvador is proactively safeguarding its crucial corn and bean production against the anticipated effects of the El Niño phenomenon. The government's strategy focuses on mitigating the impact of reduced rainfall, particularly in the Dry Corridor, while maintaining optimistic projections for the national harvest.

Official forecasts suggest the country will surpass 12 million quintals of corn and 1.2 million quintals of beans. These targets are essential for ensuring the consistent supply of basic grains to the Salvadoran population, even under conditions of elevated temperatures and diminished water availability. However, climate risks persist, with analyses indicating a high probability of below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures between August and October 2026.

To counter the anticipated drought, El Salvador's agricultural sector has modified its traditional planting schedule, advancing the first sowing to capitalize on early rains and minimize crop exposure to prolonged dry spells. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is also significantly enhancing irrigation infrastructure. Plans for 2026 include bringing an additional 60,000 acres of corn cultivation under irrigation, complemented by the drilling of new wells and the deployment of mobile irrigation systems.

Furthermore, the MAG is ensuring farmers have access to vital agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and herbicides, alongside embracing new technologies. The ministry is offering drone-based spraying and fertilization services, enabling faster and more precise applications. This modernization effort aims to bolster the resilience of Salvadoran agriculture against extreme weather events. Support also extends through the "Bono Agrícola 2026" program, which provides beneficiaries with greater choice over the inputs needed for their crops, tailored to specific plot conditions. The primary challenge remains for smallholder farmers in the Dry Corridor, where reduced soil moisture could significantly impact corn yields for those without irrigation access.