Farmers in Alberta receiving support from government

Alberta farmers currently battling dry conditions

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

As farmers in Alberta continue to battle dry conditions that make caring for their livestock difficult, the provincial government is offering assistance.

Alberta’s provincial government has cut fees for Agriculture and Forestry’s Water Pumping Program in half. The program provides pumps and pipes to help farmers and producers acquire water for domestic and livestock use by filling dugouts and other catch basins.

According to the government website, it costs $250 for the 1^st pump and trailer (6” pipe). The program helps between 400 and 1,400 people every year. The reduction in fees will be retroactive to April 1^st.

“It’s clear that many producers are facing challenges because of the dry conditions this year, “said Oneil Carter, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. “That’s why we are finding common sense ways to help out farmers during these difficult times.”

To assist with access to livestock feed supplies, Alberta’s department of Environment and Parks is working to identify public lands for grazing purposes. They will allow for temporary grazing or haying permits in certain locations.

“We are committed to supporting farmers during this challenging year,” said Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks. “Identifying more access to vacant public land for grazing is a practical way to help out farmers who are struggling with the high cost of feeding their livestock.”

There are a variety of other resources available to Alberta farmers including AgriInsurance, the Alberta Farm Loan Program and Livestock Tax Deferrals.