Drought Support for Saskatchewan Includes Allowing Low Yield Crops as Livestock Feed

Government Responds to Drought with Aid 

The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) is implementing urgent support for producers dealing with ongoing dry conditions. The federal and provincial agriculture ministers have announced changes that allow low-yielding crop acres to be salvaged for livestock feed through a doubled low yield appraisal threshold. 

This policy encourages farmers to redirect crops with poor yield potential to be grazed, baled, or used as silage—providing much-needed feed to livestock producers. All qualifying acres must be put to approved alternate use before compensation and cannot be harvested. Farmers are advised to contact their local SCIC office before making changes. 

“I’ve spoken with livestock and crop producers in Saskatchewan who are worried about the impact that dry conditions could have this year,” said Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald. “Changing the yield threshold will give them some breathing room, so they can make the best decisions for their operations.”  

Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture Daryl Harrison echoed that the initiative, used successfully in 2021 and 2023, supports timely, on-farm decisions. 

Industry leaders including SARM, Saskatchewan Cattle Association, Stock Growers Association, and APAS have welcomed the update, noting it offers a lifeline during a period of severe feed shortages. Recent rains may help pasture in some areas, but hay production has been badly affected. 

AgriStability support is also available, covering extra feed costs and production losses. The enrollment deadline for the 2025 program is extended to July 31, 2025. Producers can also apply for early financial support through the Interim Benefit option. 

Forage Rainfall Insurance will provide payments to eligible producers starting July 15, with final claims processed by August 15 based on weather data. 

Producers needing emotional support can access the Saskatchewan Farm Stress Line 24/7 at 1-800-667-4442. 

This program is a shared effort between federal and provincial governments under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).  

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