Provincial and federal governments announce drought relief support

Financial aid has been announced for Alberta’s livestock producers.

On Friday, Highwood MLA and Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson announced $165 million in federal and provincial funding for drought relief.

The 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance program will see the federal government providing $66 million, with the provincial government providing $33 million.

Sigurdson explained how producers will be compensated under the program.

“These funds will help them manage extraordinary costs and cover losses incurred from managing and maintaining breeding herds for grazing animals. For example, eligible producers could receive up to 150 per head for the breeding animals they have as of December 31st.”

Some details are still being finalized with the federal government, and more information is expected to be released this week.

“Many Alberta livestock producers have faced multiple challenges this growing season. This year's drought and excessive heat has resulted in our ranchers facing extra costs due to lost grazing days. We recognize their stress as the winter-feeding months approach. This program will help alleviate some of the cost pressures, and support producers in protecting their livelihoods while they continue to put food on tables around the world,” said Sigurdson.

This year’s drought conditions saw multiple municipalities declaring agricultural disasters, including Foothills County, Vulcan County, and the County of Stettler.

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