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Climate Change & Agriculture

Climate change poses serious threats to both crops and livestock. Though warmer temperatures may cause crops to grow more quickly, they can also reduce yield, as can the severe weather events like droughts and floods that are associated with climate change. Heat stress negatively impacts livestock, and lower crop yields could compromise the feed availability and quality for the animals. Warmer temperatures could also benefit pests and pathogens, which could then have a greater impact on livestock or crops.

“The combination of advancing climate change and an already-vulnerable industrial system is a ‘perfect storm’ that threatens farmers’ livelihoods and our food supply.”

This article from the Union of Concerned Scientists describes the “perfect storm” that is creating significant pressure in the agricultural sector with a warming climate. The article discusses potential future climate trends alongside past observed impacts and what that all means for our food supply going forward. Further, check out this EPA article to find resources that can help reduce climate change effects.

"Many of the commodities that currently dominate the New York agricultural sector, like dairy products, apples, cabbage, and potatoes, are not well suited for the warming trends predicted for this century"
In this Cornell University College of Agricultural & Life Sciences fact sheet titled “Farming Success in An Uncertain Climate”, the climate-driven agricultural challenges threatening New York State are discussed. The sheet covers flooding and drought potential, heat stress, and challenges from pests, weeds, and livestock. It also covers suggestions and solutions for some of these problems, hoping to provide farmers with as much information as possible.Download the fact sheet

Provides tools to help farmers mitigate and adapt to climate change, and links for further information and resources.

Last updated December 7, 2023