Full Analysis Summary
Ulster farmers under strain
The Ulster Farmers' Union has called on the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) to recognise the strain on farmers and to provide "appropriate" flexibility.
Deputy President John McLenaghan said farmers were resilient but "resilience isn't unlimited" and advised that farmers should contact their UFU Technical Officer for advice and guidance.
Wilson's Country Chief Executive Angus Wilson said that early potato planting has been "impossible" this February because of excessive rainfall, though he said he was "hopeful to get planting in the next month."
The UFU said "draconian planning rules" were hampering some farmers' efforts to modernise and ease nutrient management challenges.
The article notes changing weather patterns have prompted frustration among growers, with some warning of shortages and price rises.