Farmer's rainwater tanks nearly empty after prolonged drought: 'Never experienced this before'

Farmer Yvan Deschuyteneer in Bever, Belgium, faces a critical water shortage as his farm's 150,000-liter rainwater reserves are projected to last only two more weeks. Three months of minimal rainfall have depleted the supply, which is essential for the 150 beef cattle at 't Manhovehof farm.

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If it doesn't rain, the supply is gone. We then depend on the water company.

"If it doesn't rain, the supply is gone," Yvan stated. "We then depend on the water company." The farm has historically relied solely on rainwater for its animals. While partly government-mandated, the investment in water collection tanks exceeded legal requirements. "Today, 60 percent of cattle farmers in Flanders are already using alternative water sources for their livestock," noted Yannick Goorickx of Belbeef, the meat sector organization.

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Today, 60 percent of cattle farmers in Flanders are already using alternative water sources for their livestock.

Son Mathieu emphasized the value of their investment. "We are super happy we made this investment. A cow needs an average of 60 liters of water per day. That adds up quickly if you have to supply that with regular tap water." He explained that while many farmers use groundwater, its levels are also dropping. "And this while rain falls for free from the sky. Even though we have to pay a tax on rainwater today, it is still much less than tap water." The collected rainwater also serves to clean machinery and stables.

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We are super happy we made this investment. A cow needs an average of 60 liters of water per day. That adds up quickly if you have to supply that with regular tap water.

The Deschuyteneer family is also adjusting its crops, focusing on alfalfa and fava beans. These crops have deep roots, allowing them to access water far underground, making them more resilient to drought and heat. "These are the only crops that are still bright green in the field today," Yvan observed. Growing these crops reduces the need to purchase soy, as they are protein sources that can be cultivated on the farm. Spelt is also grown as a natural alternative to costly vaccinations for preventing intestinal infections in calves. The current drought has also impacted the corn harvest, resulting in less developed kernels and a reduced feed ration for the cattle, forcing Yvan to buy additional feed. "As farmers, we live 200 percent to the rhythm of the climate," he said. "If the climate changes, one must try to change the crops."

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These are the only crops that are still bright green in the field today.