Hay production in Lungau

The agricultural model of Lungau is characterized by numerous small family farms. These farms, often of modest size, are typically managed as a supplementary activity, with farmers frequently holding another full-time or part-time job. In fact, in 2011, only 34% of farms were full-time operations. Approximately 50% of the farms are organic, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable practices.  

While agriculture in the valleys can be managed with the same tools as elsewhere in the country, the steep topography and fields on the slopes sometimes limit the use of agricultural machinery. Beyond a certain incline, agricultural machines are unable to operate in the fields, making haymaking in these areas challenging. In contrast to France, where such fields might be converted into pastures, here they are still used for hay production.  

The persistence of this challenging farming is due to several factors. First, the agricultural areas in the valleys are not very large, and to produce enough feed for the livestock, it is necessary to make the most of these areas (as some animals can be put into the alpine pastures during the summer, but their feed needs to be ensured during the long winter). Additionally, this type of farming is feasible because it relies on numerous small, predominantly family-run farms, each with only a small number of livestock. For example, a farm with 7 cows, as seen here, requires less hay than a farm with 20 or 30 cows. Therefore, small farms find it easier to produce the necessary hay without relying on agricultural machinery.  

Starting in June, the first fields are mowed. Initially, this takes place in the valleys where agricultural machinery can be used. These early cuts are typically baled and wrapped in plastic for silage. However, as summer progresses and the heat sets in, fields on the slopes gradually begin to be cut. We will now examine how hay is produced in areas that cannot be mechanized. 

Step 1: Mowing  

When the weather forecast predicts several days of good weather, the first mowing operations commence. In the valleys, mowing can be done with tractors, but this is not possible on the steep slopes. Instead, self-propelled mowers are used to cut the grass (see photo below). These mowers are guided by someone at the rear. They do not have wheels; instead, they are equipped with a steel roller with teeth that grips the slope, allowing mowing in very steep areas. 

Step 2: Drying 

This phase is arguably one of the most delicate. If it rains on the hay, it will not only prevent it from drying but also degrade its quality. Given the unpredictable weather in Lungau, with summer storms being common, it can be challenging to find the right moment for haymaking. Once mowing is completed, the hay is left on the ground. If necessary, it is turned once to ensure better and faster drying. This is done using a rake to lift the hay off the ground, allowing air to circulate and expose all parts to the sun. This step is not always performed, especially when weather conditions are favorable. 

Step 3: Harvesting  

Once the hay is sufficiently dry, harvesting can begin. It is crucial to harvest only when the hay is thoroughly dry, as wet hay could heat up and potentially ignite in the storage building. Harvesting is generally a family affair. The hay is first gathered and then pushed down the slope to a collection point where a truck or tractor will come to collect it. The photo below shows the stage where the hay is raked to gather it together before being pushed down the slope to a location where the truck can pick it up. 

Step 4: Storage 

Once the hay is loaded onto the truck, it will be transported to the storage facility. There, the hay will be unloaded in bulk into the building. To store more efficiently, it can then be compacted into bales. The lofts are filled with bales of hay to feed the animals in the barn below during the winter. The photo below shows the barn being filled with bulk hay after it is harvested from the fields. 

Conclusion:  

The hay farming in Lungau promotes the use of every piece of land, including the most difficult-to-access areas, and contributes to the preservation of traditional landscapes. The generally modest farms help maintain a wide diversity of agricultural landscapes, including meadows, pastures, and alpine pastures, while supporting local biodiversity.