Organic dairy farmers are facing “severe pressure” due to the impacts of drought.
The 2026 Organic Dairy Drought Impact Survey revealed the emerging picture is “stark”, with forage levels, winter stock levels, winter feed security and farm profitability primary concerns for a large proportion of organic farms.
The survey, which reflects 40% of the 46,000-strong organic dairy herd, was commissioned and compiled by Kite Consulting and the Daykin Partnership to assess the drought impact on organic dairy farmers.
Forage availability is a particular challenge, with 81% of those surveyed saying the situation was significant or severe.
At the same time, 73% said winter feed security and farm profitability were also severe, and the impact on feed costs was a significant concern for 68% of those surveyed.
“Unlike last year, where a good growing season in the far north and far south of the country allowed for forage to be traded to offset any shortfalls, the drought impact across large parts of the country in 2026 means availability is simply not there to the same level, and that in turn pushes up the price for what is available to buy,” said Becki Reay, head of corporate at Kite Consulting.
She warned there was likely to be an increase in the cost of production across the board for organic farmers and a squeeze on margins.
Organic certification requirements mean farmers must meet strict minimum standards for forage inclusion in the diet, which meant the sector was being forced into “tough choices” – including 86% making the choice to cull cattle, the survey found.
“This reflects a structural response, with farms looking to reduce herd size and feed demand rather than simply sourcing more feed to get through winter,” said Rob Daykin, MD of the Daykin Partnership.
Reay warned this would have an immediate impact on milk volumes as well as longer-term issues.
“There are several potential impacts and outcomes, but one thing we do know, and we have the data to demonstrate, is that organic heifers are simply not there to replace them, certainly not in the next couple of years, so it is crucial that organic dairy has the confidence to invest in the future and mitigate against these drought impacts,” she said.
Kite warned previous research had shown that organic farming is often most impacted by climate extremes, and the investments needed are often more costly than conventional systems.
“We have seen, in the past, when organic farmers lack confidence in the long-term outlook, the result is often for them to relinquish organic status or leave the sector,” said Reay. “Yet, with a stable and growing demand for organic dairy at retail level, it is crucial these farmers have the confidence to make the necessary investments that will be returned through a long-term, sustainable milk-price.”
Support for farmers
It comes as farming charity RABI has launched a £2m Emergency Drought Fund for farming people.
It will launch on 7 September and provide £2,000 grants towards personal and household living costs for elibile farm owners and tenant farmers whose household finances are under pressure.
Applications will open in five regional phases, with up to 200 grants of £2,000 available per region.
“The prolonged dry conditions are having a significant impact on farming people and households across England and Wales, with many facing increased financial pressure as the effects of the drought continue,” said Alicia Chivers, chief executive of RABI. ”I am proud of RABI’s ability to respond at pace when farming people face challenges on this scale. Committing £2 million the Emergency Drought Fund will provide direct financial help to ensure farming people can afford to pay for core living costs during a time of increased stress and financial pressure.
”The charity’s ability to respond at this scale is an important aspect of our work as the Farmers Charity.”
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