Apply for Program Funding While there is Still Time
By Trish Johnson, PAg, Agriculture Programs Specialist, North Battleford
We are now in the fifth and final year of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) suite of programming. Program uptake has been very positive, which shows that producers understand the importance of water development projects, environmental sustainability and risk management.
Some of the programs available to Saskatchewan producers include:
- Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) – FRWIP has been one of the most popular programs, especially with the extreme dry conditions we experienced this past year. FRWIP provides a 50 per cent rebate on eligible expenses to a maximum of $50,000 for the development of new water sources (dugouts, pipelines and wells) for agricultural use or for the expansion of existing dugouts. FRWIP is a rebate program, so producers who have already developed a new water source should submit their rebate claim forms after their water project is completed. Consider this program if you need to develop a new sustainable water source for your operation.
- Irrigation Development and Efficiency Programming – This pre-approval program supports sustainable agriculture water management and adaptation to climate change by expanding irrigation development and improving irrigation efficiencies.
- Farm Stewardship Program – This program provides support and financial assistance for producers to implement nine different beneficial management practices (BMPs) that enhance sustainability and resiliency in the sector. This includes funding for seeding forages, fencing, relocation of livestock facilities and drainage stewardship BMPs.
- Assurance Systems Producer Program – This program is designed to provide support to producers in the apiculture, beef cattle, bison, cervid, dairy, goats, poultry, sheep and swine sectors through rebates on eligible equipment. The purpose of the program is to increase participation in biosecurity and animal welfare initiatives.
- Agricultural Skills and Knowledge (ASK) Program – ASK provides a rebate to help producers access training related to farm management. Look at the list of eligible courses and training activities as it’s always a good idea to keep learning.
If you are a Saskatchewan producer and haven’t already used these programs, there is still opportunity to do so. With less than one year remaining in the current suite of programs, we encourage all producers to make use of them. Please contact your nearest agriculture programs specialist for detailed information on program eligibility and deadlines or call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.