Government of Canada allocates $219 million to support farmers, ranchers after drought, wildfires

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Government of Canada is allocating $219 million to support farmers and ranchers in Western Canada dealing with high costs due to drought conditions and wildfires.

The funding will be through the AgriRecovery Framework and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay.

Producers can also access other business risk management programs, including AgriStability, AgriInsurance, and AgriInvest.

Additionally, the Government of Canada designated certain regions of B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba for livestock tax deferral for 2023 due to the extreme weather conditions.

“This summer was an extremely challenging time for B.C.’s farmers and ranchers as we dealt with unprecedented drought and wildfire. We’ve been listening to and working with farmers and ranchers, and providing programs and support that meet their unique needs,” said Pam Alexis, B.C. Minister of Agriculture and Food.

“AgriRecovery is another way we are taking action to protect the livelihoods of our province’s food producers, helping them return to their land while supporting local food security and our local economies.”

In a survey conducted by PRRD vice-chair Dan Rose in August revealed most of the farmers in the region are experiencing much lower yields when compared to previous years.

Farmers in the Peace have struggled throughout the summer due to the early drought and have expressed concerns about the government programs available. The Shadow Minister of Agriculture also visited Fort St. John in August to speak with impacted farmers.