Temporary Changes to the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program
By Karen Smith, PAg, Agriculture Program Specialist, Tisdale
Conditions for the 2021 growing season have been challenging, with a lack of precipitation and higher than average temperatures. To support Saskatchewan producers, temporary adjustments have been made to the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP). The program is included as part of the suite of Canadian Agricultural Partnership programs and provides rebates to develop agricultural water sources.
The program normally offers a maximum rebate of 50 per cent of eligible costs up to $50,000 for water infrastructure. Temporary changes announced on July 14, 2021 increased the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive to $150,000 between April 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022. The first $50,000 will be based on a 50-50 cost-share and the remaining $100,000 will be on a 70-30 government-producer cost-share.
Eligible producers must meet the following criteria:
- Saskatchewan agricultural producer (individual, partnership or corporation) who can demonstrate a minimum $50,000 of gross farm income in Saskatchewan in the year preceding or in the year of the application. Individual applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- First Nations in the Province of Saskatchewan can also qualify for funding.
- Have an agricultural use for the water.
- Have a Saskatchewan Premise Identification number if they are considered a livestock producer.
Dry conditions are forcing producers to look at their water management and make significant changes to their water infrastructure. Extensive projects like deep wells can provide a reliable water source, but often come with higher expenses. This temporary program change will assist livestock producers who would like to undertake more significant projects to mitigate dry conditions and ensure long-term sustainable water sources in the future.
FRWIP is a rebate and does not require pre-approval. However, producers are responsible for ensuring their project meets program criteria and should take time to review program information and complete the self-assessment before starting a new project. For more information, please call your local agriculture programs specialist at the nearest regional office or the Agriculture Knowledge Center at 1-866-457-2377.
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