Agriculture, Latvia, Legislation, Markets and Companies

The heavy rains and flooding have damaged 12,000 hectares of crops, and more than 3,200 tons of prepared hay.

"Not all farmers have applied for compensations. Many are still consulting with LAD and hope that they will manage to harvest at least part of the crops, which demonstrates a fair attitude. LAD representatives are inspecting the fields, working also at weekends. This job is our priority now so that we can compile all necessary information and provide support to farmers as soon as possible," said LAD director Anna Vitola-Helviga.

She said that in many cases the crops have been fully destroyed, but also it is impossible to access some parts, therefore LAD is also using latest technologies, satellite pictures for inspections.

Farmers whose crops have been damaged or destroyed in the floods may apply for compensation payments from September 4 until October 2. If the Rural Support Service's experts conclude after inspecting a farm that all crops of the given farm have been destroyed, the farm owner will be eligible to receive compensation.

The amount of losses will be calculated based on the average crop prices.

As reported, the government has declared a state of emergency in 29 regions in Latgale, Vidzeme and Zemgale provinces.