Kulturhof Winterthur launches crowdfunding after severe hailstorm
- The Kulturhof Winterthur agricultural operation faces an existential threat following severe hail damage that destroyed four greenhouses, vehicles, and a major portion of the harvest, according to statements...
- Severe weather conditions left the farm with only about five percent of its anticipated pumpkin harvest, while the remainder fell victim to the storm.
- Meier noted that four chickens died during the hail event, and fruit trees sustained heavy impacts that will prevent the farm from conducting its Schaumosten this season.
The Kulturhof Winterthur agricultural operation faces an existential threat following severe hail damage that destroyed four greenhouses, vehicles, and a major portion of the harvest, according to statements from Reto Meier. The Demeter-labeled permaculture farm, located in Wülflingen, now requires 40,000 Swiss francs through a crowdfunding campaign launched by its two employees to secure its ongoing operation and wage payments.
Severe Hailstorm Cripples Winterthur Demeter Farm
Total Devastation Across Wülflingen Fields
Severe weather conditions left the farm with only about five percent of its anticipated pumpkin harvest, while the remainder fell victim to the storm.
Meier noted that four chickens died during the hail event, and fruit trees sustained heavy impacts that will prevent the farm from conducting its Schaumosten this season.
«Ich lebe seit 43 Jahren auf dem Kulturhof aber so etwas habe ich noch nie erlebt»
Reto Meier
Insurance Gaps Leave Agricultural Land Exposed
While building insurance policies cover the repair of the property’s roof, the agricultural land lacks insurance protection against weather events.
Meier stated that the farm plans to secure insurance ahead of the next year due to the risk of repeated hail events. Meier noted that the barn roof had to be renovated for the fourth time because of hail damage, despite having had no hail damage to complain about in the previous 40 years.
Urgent Push to Secure Workforce Survival
With harvest revenues severely compromised, the primary concern for Meier centers on workforce retention rather than structural repairs or lost crops. Meier emphasized that keeping the two staff members employed and ensuring their wages are paid remains the most critical priority for the farm’s survival.
Public Support and Market Stand Operations
To address the financial shortfall, the farm’s employees established a public crowdfunding initiative aiming to raise 40,000 francs.
Meier continues to sell available produce on Tuesdays and Fridays at the weekly market in the Winterthur old town while dealing with the aftermath of the storm.