Drought prompts aid for Gers farmers

Following a summer marked by drought and heatwaves, new support measures have been announced for farmers in the Gers department in southwestern France. These measures aim to help farmers recover from the damage caused by extreme weather conditions.

Agricultural rearmament fund activated

More than 900 farms in Gers have already requested assistance from the agricultural rearmament fund, which has been allocated over four million euros in the department. The funds are intended to support summer crops, horticulture, and the purchase of forage for livestock.

Initial aid distributed to farmers

As of October 14, more than 900 farms had submitted requests for assistance. Over 100 farmers have already received advance payments totaling 150,000 euros. Nationally, the government has also released a reserve of 21 million euros, with the distribution between regions still underway.

Zero-interest loans and tax relief offered

Farmers can access zero-interest working capital loans, with the state covering the interest on "drought" loans offered by banks. These loans can reach up to 50,000 euros over two years, and the aid can go up to 2,500 euros per farm. Additional support is planned for newer farmers facing repayment delays.

Tax exemptions and payment delays

Tax exemptions on unbuilt properties will be granted to farmers affected by crop losses. The exemption will be applied automatically after an assessment of the affected areas and crops. The deadline for paying property tax has also been extended to November 15, 2026.

Diesel aid and PAC funding extended

Aid for non-road diesel use, set at 15 cents per liter, will be extended for April, May, and June 2026 consumption, with the aid period reopened for two months. Meanwhile, over 72 million euros in advances from the common agricultural policy (PAC) are expected to be paid out in Gers, covering about 94% of eligible applications.

Cover crop exemption introduced

A prefectural exemption allows farmers to avoid sowing a cover crop this autumn. The exemption applies automatically and requires no additional action from farmers.