AgriStability program enhanced to better support B.C. farmers who lose crops

The provincial and federal governments have made changes to the program that provides financial support to B.C. farmers experiencing unexpected losses.

The AgriStability program has been enhanced for this year to increase the compensation rate from 80 to 90 per cent, by doubling the compensation cap from $3 million to $6 million, and by advancing interest-free payments to farmers for up to 75 per cent of their anticipated final claim.

“We raised concerns we have been hearing from farmers here in B.C. at a national level, and our advocacy is resulting in improvements to AgriStability so B.C. farmers can continue to produce high-quality local food. B.C. led the way on this initiative, making these very same changes to our program last year,” Lana Popham, B.C.’s Minister of Agriculture and Food, stated.

“It’s great to have the federal government partner with us this year to continue to support farmers.”

The changes aim to address international trade concerns, while also supporting farmers who suffer crop losses due to factors such as extreme weather events.

“Now is the time for unity – and we’re working together to deliver for producers right across the country to make sure our programs work for them,” Heath MacDonald, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food, said.

“That’s why, at our meeting last week, we agreed to make changes to AgriStability so that producers facing trade uncertainty and dry conditions have more protection.”

The changes came into effect Friday, July 25, and B.C. farmers have until Thursday, July 31, to enroll in the program.

“B.C. Agriculture Council welcomes these enhancements to the AgriStability program, which plays a critical role in supporting agricultural producers navigate uncertainty,” Jennifer Woike, President of the B.C. Agricultural Council, added.