The Manitoba government is taking another step to help livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions across the province.

“Manitoba Agriculture supports our livestock sector across the province, and we recognize that many areas are feeling the effects of the hot, dry summer,” said Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler. “Effective management of both surface and groundwater sources used for livestock production is essential for ensuring the health and longevity of the livestock, pastures and associated water sources.”

Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programming to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of beneficial management practices (BMPs) that reduce identified environmental risks, improve agro-ecosystem resilience, build public trust and improve environmental sustainability of farm options in Manitoba.

The Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas BMP provides funding for livestock producers to protect surface water. Recognizing that limiting livestock access to surface water may require alternate water sources, clarifications have been made to the BMP to enable funding for water source development.

New eligible costs to the BMP include:

  • water source development – wells; drilling new or deepening existing wells, test hole drilling, screening, casing, well caps, etc.; water pumps and required plumbing components; and professional and contractor fees.
  • water source development – dugouts; constructing new or rehabilitating existing dugouts, test hole drilling, etc.; and professional and contractor fees.

To be eligible for funding under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices, applicants are required to complete an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) to assist them to manage risk on their farm operations with respect to water quality and supply, soil health, air quality and biodiversity. Producers have until Feb. 15, 2019, to submit their EFP Statement of Completion.

Applications for several BMPs will be accepted on a continual basis throughout the fall, the minister said.

“Weather conditions have created a challenging summer for many livestock producers across the Prairies. I commend Minister Eichler for launching this program to help Manitoban producers improve the environmental sustainability of their operations,” federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay said today.

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture office or call the department (toll-free) at 1-84-GROW-MB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services.