Farmers and agricultural experts are warning that worsening heat and drought conditions are already affecting milk production and could threaten the long-term sustainability of Barbados’ dairy industry if climate adaptation measures are not urgently implemented.

As Barbados prepares to transition from the dry season into the hurricane season in the coming days, dairy farmers are seeking guidance on how to better protect livestock and maintain milk yields amid rising temperatures and worsening drought conditions.

The concerns were raised during Pine Hill Dairy’s Dairy Farmers Engagement Forum on Thursday at Radisson Aquatica, where farmers, climate officials and agricultural experts discussed the challenges facing the sector and possible solutions.