Gewasschade

Gewasschade is a Dutch term used to describe damage to crops (gewassen) that reduces yield or quality. It covers losses in arable crops, vegetables, fruits, and ornamental crops caused by external factors during growth, harvest, or post-harvest handling. The term is used in agricultural policy, insurance, and farm management to describe economically significant crop losses.

Causes of gewasschade can be abiotic, biotic, or a combination. Abiotic factors include drought and waterlogging, extreme temperatures, hail, frost, wind damage, and soil salinity or nutrient deficiencies. Biotic factors encompass plant diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, or viruses, as well as pest infestations by insects, nematodes, or weeds competing for resources. Physical damage during harvesting, storage, or transport may also contribute to gewasschade. The relative importance of causes varies by region, crop type, and weather patterns.

Assessment and compensation of gewasschade are typically carried out by agricultural authorities or insurers. Assessments may consider yield losses per hectare, reductions in quality grades, increased production costs, and potential long-term impacts on soil health. Compensation depends on policy terms, thresholds, and eligibility rules, and may involve crop insurance schemes, disaster funds, or government aid, where available.

Prevention and mitigation focus on risk management and resilience. Strategies include selecting resistant or adapted varieties, crop diversification, optimal irrigation and drainage, timely planting and harvest, integrated pest and disease management, and protective measures against extreme weather. Early warning systems and improved post-harvest handling also help reduce the severity and economic impact of gewasschade.