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Building A Unified Voice for Agriculture: Agriculture Updates, Supports, and News: April 2025

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Building A Unified Voice for Agriculture: Agriculture Updates, Supports, and News: April 2025

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Agriculture Updates since March 2025

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Cutting Red Tape to Ensure the Resiliency and Competitive Advantage of Canada's Agricultural Sector
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is working to remove unnecessary red tape and burden and ensure that our processes and regulations continue to enable prosperity for our agriculture producers, agri-food businesses, and communities across Canada. These measures include:

  • Speeding up product approvals to provide alternatives to U.S.-sourced animal feed.
  • Aiming to harmonize our bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) enhanced feed ban with U.S. requirements.
  • Addressing stakeholder irritants and levelling the playing field for Canadian producers through advancing key regulatory changes
  • Removing outdated prescriptive requirements and supporting innovation to enable industry-led actions

Canadian Beef Industry Award for Outstanding Research and Innovation
This award recognizes a researcher or scientist whose work has contributed to advancements in the competitiveness and sustainability of the Canadian beef industry. All nominations must be submitted to info@beefresearch.ca no later than May 1, 2025, with three or more letters of reference that speak to the nominee’s influence on Canada’s beef Industry.

Applications Open for the 2025-26 Term of the Beef Researcher Mentorship Program
The Beef Cattle Research Council is now accepting applications for the 2025-26 term of the Beef Researcher Mentorship Program.  The deadline to apply is May 1, 2025.  Find out more. 

Polycrops: Challenges, Triumphs and Valuable Lessons from Beef Producers
Polycrop forage blends have become a popular tool among beef producers to increase soil health, manage grazing, improve cow performance and enhance resilience to changing weather conditions. However, as with any farming practice, the results can vary based on location, weather and management strategies. Learn More

Now Accepting Nominations - Award for Outstanding Research and Innovation
Nominations are now open for this annual award recognizing a researcher or scientist whose work has contributed to advancements in the competitiveness and sustainability of the Canadian beef industry. Nominate Someone You Know!

Reducing the Wildfire Risk Around Your Farm or Acreage
The period between the melting of snow and the emergence of fresh grass and leaves creates the highest risk for spring wildfires.
FireSmart is a program that gives you information and recommendations on how to reduce the risk of a wildfire damaging your home or other buildings. The FireSmart program is supported by many community fire departments as an education and prevention tool for fire prevention/damage reduction. Read More

Increasing Land Conservation in Alberta
Landowners are committed to protecting their land, water and the plants and wildlife that live there, while still being able to provide for their families.
As a result of a request for proposal issued in 2024, $5 million in grant funding through the Land Trust Grant Program will be awarded to 19 different projects, protecting nearly 21,000 acres across the province. These 19 projects are helping landowners and land trusts protect Alberta’s natural landscapes without disrupting the livelihoods that hard-working families rely on. More Here

How to Choose Seed Treatment
A common question in spring is whether to treat seed or not. While seed treatment cannot improve seed quality, it can preserve quality. Preserving seed quality can help with plant establishment, especially in challenging conditions.
Producers are reminded that seed treatments are not the silver bullet. Other BMPs such as seed testing, residue management and crop rotation can be used to maximize the benefit of seed treatments. If the seed has poor germination and/or high pathogen infection that may pose a risk to plant establishment, consider using a different seedlot. Learn More

New Hands, New Horizons: Transitioning to Non-Family Successors
As the farming community faces the dual challenges of limited succession partners and the financial barriers for younger generations entering agriculture, it’s clear that other paths need to be explored. Read More

Road Improvements Support Booming Agrifood Sector
Developing agrifood corridors in Alberta is vital for growing the economy, creating jobs and ensuring food producers have better access to markets. By improving transportation infrastructure, these corridors help make Alberta's agricultural products more competitive globally, enhance supply chain efficiency and support rural development.
The province is providing $1.8 million for a new road connection between Highway 873 and the JBS Food plant. Providing an alternative access to and from the JBS Food plant will improve safety and efficiency for thousands of County of Newell residents while also saving workers up to an hour and a half a day getting to and from the plant. Learn More

Ending Unnecessary Holdbacks to Make More Water Available
Alberta is making more water available for communities, businesses and irrigators by removing the 10 per cent holdback on most water licence transfers.
Traditionally, water transfers required 10 percent of the water be held back, often preventing readily available water from being safely used by irrigators, businesses and communities that need it.
The province has released three new policy directions so that water is only held back when absolutely needed. These new rules will make water transfers easier, free up more water in southern and central Alberta, and support economic growth for agriculture, industry and municipalities. Learn More

Powering Life in Rural Alberta
Budget 2025 provides $8.5 million for the Rural Utilities Program – which consists of the Rural Electric Program, Rural Gas Program and Rural Water Program – and the Remote Area Heating Allowance. This will help communities access critical services like gas, power and water, as well as deliver direct financial relief to thousands of rural Albertans facing high utility bills so that they can continue their vital work.
A total of $700,000 is allocated to the Rural Electric Program, recognizing the increasing role electricity plays in modern farming and ranching. Under this program, grants are administered by the Alberta Federation of Electrification Associations and support the construction of electrical services for farms and ranches. More Here

AgriStability - Comparing the Optional and Default Reference Margins
A new reference margin option is being introduced to AgriStability. Starting with the 2025 program year, participants will be able to choose how they want their reference margin to be calculated – either as the optional reference margin or the accrual adjusted reference margin.
The optional reference margin simplifies reporting for the reference period as accrual and inventory details are not required. The farm income reported for tax purposes, along with accrual, and inventory details for the program year are still required but only if the participant is in a claim position.
Participants have until April 30 to select the optional reference margin. Learn More

Boosting Herd Genetics: Artificial Insemination Brings Big Benefits to Small Beef Herds
Genetic progress can be slow in beef cattle, but artificial insemination (AI) is a tool to help producers reach their herd genetic goals faster. That is the number one reason Brendon Crane immediately took advantage of this technology when he established Crane Cattle Company in Lorne Valley, Prince Edward Island, in 1990. The farm focuses on producing and finishing top-quality Hereford calves with their 30-head cow herd. More Here

Margin Uncertainty Impacting Canadian Seeding Decisions
Seeding is rapidly approaching in Canada, and the question of what producers will plant this year is more uncertain than usual due to current and potential future trade disruptions. Since our 2025 crop outlook in January, tariffs and trade issues have expanded, however the focus on cereals experiencing a price resurgence relative to oilseeds has been confirmed. Read More

Funding Updates 

Applications Are Now Open for On-Farm Efficiency Program 
Applications for the On-Farm Efficiency Program are officially open! If you’ve been waiting for this opportunity, now is your chance to apply. The On-Farm Efficiency Program supports producers to achieve environmental benefits by improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs. Review the program’s web page for eligibility requirements, application details, program terms and conditions, and funding details here.

Fully Funded Digital Marketing Training 
Join Jelly Academy’s fully funded digital marketing skills training ($3,999 value) through Digital Marketing Skills Canada, thanks to Upskill Canada (Powered by Palette Skills) with the Government of Canada. This training is for professionals in Agriculture, FoodTech and Food Manufacturing. 
What You’ll Learn: Social Media, SEO, Google & Social Ads, Analytics, PR, and Growth Marketing.
Who’s It For? Small business owners, entry-level marketers, and team members handling marketing tasks.
Next Start Date: April 16 (On-demand) Secure your Spot

Supporting Health and Safety of Canadian Farmers
In conjunction with Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, Agriculture Canada announced up to $1,607,291 in funding over three years to the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) through the AgriCompetitiveness Program, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
This funding will support a range of initiatives aimed at improving farm safety and reducing the risk of injuries in Canadian agriculture. Through national leadership, training programs, awareness campaigns, and on-farm resources, CASA will help farmers, farm families and workers adopt safer practices. Learn More

Support Measures for Agriculture Sector Amid Chinese Tariffs
In response to China’s tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, key support measures have been introduced, including AgriStability enhancements and accelerated financial support. These measures aim to help Canadian producers affected by tariffs on canola, pork, and other products. Producers are encouraged to apply for AgriStability and explore available support programs. Learn more

AgriStability - comparing the optional and default reference margins
A new reference margin option is being introduced to AgriStability. Starting with the 2025 program year, participants will be able to choose how they want their reference margin to be calculated – either as the optional reference margin or the accrual adjusted reference margin. The optional reference margin simplifies reporting for the reference period as accrual and inventory details are not required. The farm income reported for tax purposes, along with accrual, and inventory details for the program year are still required but only if the participant is in a claim position. Participants have until April 30 to select the optional reference margin. More information

FCC Trade Disruption Customer Support Program
To support the Canadian agriculture and food industry as tariffs are implemented, FCC is providing $1 billion in new lending to help alleviate financial challenges. You can received help to defer principal payments for up to 12 months on existing loans (current customers).Find out more.

Online applications open for FarmCash
FarmCash is more than a cash advance; it is a comprehensive cash flow management tool aimed at boosting the long-term profitability of the farm. FarmCash offers marketing flexibility when selling commodities, low-interest savings, risk mitigation during the growing season, and opportunities for making strategic investments. Learn more about FarmCash and see if it is right for you.

Supporting Canadian Hog Producers
Agriculture Canada recently announced a commitment of up to $567.16 million to support hog producers should there be a closure of key export markets for Canadian pork products and live pigs due to an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in Canada or the United States. While Canada remains free of ASF, a single detection of ASF in Canada would close export markets due to international trade regulations and import restrictions imposed by trading partners. More information

Cash Advance from Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA)
A cash advance from CCGA provides essential farm cash flow and can lower your farm’s borrowing costs with no-interest and low-interest financing. The Advance Payments Program offers up to $1 million at an interest rate below prime, with the first $250,000 interest-free in 2025. Created for farmers, this financial tool offers cash flow from your unsold commodity inventories. Learn more

Alberta Export Expansion Program
This program provides funding to help export-ready small and medium-sized enterprises, industry associations, Indigenous organizations and economic development organizations in the province enhance access to international markets and attract global buyers. Applications are currently being accepted. Make sure to review program changes and eligibility requirements before submitting an application. Apply Here

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
Alberta producers, farmers, ranchers, processors and organizations can apply for these cost-shared grant programs. See what programs are available and the list of eligible applicants here.

Current RDAR Funding Opportunities
RDAR has four programs open for applications. Check out the details here.

4 Key Details to Know about Venture Capital Funding
What food and beverage processors need to know about accessing funds through venture capital funding. Find out more.

Labour Resources

Agriculture Job Connector: https://www.alberta.ca/agriculture-job-connector.aspx 

Additional Government & Industry News and Information

Call for Nominations to the Farm Management Canada Board of Directors

Farm Management Canada is seeking nominees to fulfill three (3) positions on the Board of Directors. Nominees can be from any of the following member categories:

  • Farmer (including Young Farmer)
  • Member at Large
  • Association/Organization
  • Academic Institution
  • Corporate

Directors will be expected to serve a full three-year term and are permitted to serve a maximum of three consecutive terms. Those who are nominating or have been nominated should keep the 3-year term in mind when letting their name stand for election. Nominees are encouraged to closely review the accompanying documents to gain an overview of the roles and responsibilities of Directors. Nominations will close at 17:00 hrs. Eastern Time, Friday May 9, 2025. After this time, no further nominations will be accepted. For more information and details on nomination criteria, consult the documents below:

Should you require further information regarding the nomination and election process, and/or the roles and responsibilities of Directors, please contact Head Office at info@fmc-gac.com.

Understand the Ins and Outs of Grain Payment Deferral
For decades, farmers have opted to defer some or all their grain payment cheques when they deliver to their local elevator.This strategy is often used as a tax planning tool: farmers will sell their grain but wait until sometime in the future, usually the new calendar year, to accept payment. It is a way to manage taxable income. Grain payments can be future-dated up to 364 days from the date of being issued a cheque. Learn more about whether deferred payments are right for your farm operation

Growing the Agriculture and Biogas Industries
The province has introduced legislation that will help grow and diversify agriculture, while supporting the emerging biogas industry. Updates to the Agricultural Operation Practices Act, if passed, would help reduce waste, allow farmers to supplement fertilizer with organic materials and help the province attract job-creating investment. The act and its regulations provide rules and standards for all agricultural operations that handle manure and organic materials. Read more

Reducing the Wildfire Risk Around Your Farm or Acreage
FireSmart is a program that gives you information and recommendations on how to reduce the risk of a wildfire damaging your home or other buildings.

Improving Land and Property Rights Services
The Land and Property Rights Tribunal (LPRT) holds an important role in ensuring Albertans’ property rights are protected by ensuring a fair and impartial appeal process for property assessments, surface rights, compensation, land use planning and other matters that affect land ownership and the municipalities where they live.
To further strengthen Albertans’ rights to appeal decisions made regarding their land and property, the province has hired an external consultant to review the LPRT business processes to ensure they are effective and responsive to the needs of Albertans. Learn More

Events, Webinars and Podcasts

How Farms Can Use Life Insurance to Support Farm Transition Planning | April 24 | Register

Farm Financial Fluency Workshops
Deepen the Understanding of Your Financial Situation and Join the Farm Financial Fluency Training

Through the Farm Financial Fluency training program, you will learn:

  • Why financial reporting is important and to whom
  • Key differences between types of financial reporting and who uses what
  • Different farm business structures and their impact on financial reporting
  • How to interpret your financial statements (balance sheet, income statement)
  • Financial ratios and how to use them to analyze risk
  • How to spot potential financial issues and opportunities
  • Tools and resources available to manage financial risk

Local to Global Forum: April 23-25, 2025 

Speakers include:

  • Minister Nathan Neudorf, Affordability & Utilities
  • Minister RJ Sigurdson, Alberta Agriculture & Irrigation
  • MLA Justin Wright, Cypress-Medicine Hat
  • James Rajotte, Alberta’s Senior Representative to the U.S.
  • Shane Jaffer, Invest Alberta – Director of Global Partnerships
  • Rob Roach, Deputy Chief Economist, ATB

And many more from transportation, agriculture, investment, and energy sectors. Register here: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/chamber-calendar/Details/the-local-to-global-forum-1333160?sourceTypeId=Hub 

Managing Grazing & Ecosystems, Virtual - April 30
Farm Financial Fluency for Dairy Farmers, Virtual - May 5, 6 and 8
Dugouts for Agriculture and other Rural Uses, virtual - May 6

Be a Host: Open Farms Days 2025
Registration is now open for farms and ranches to be part of the 13th annual Alberta Open Farm Days on August 16 and 17. Alberta Open Farm Days is annual 2-day summer event that presents Albertans with an opportunity to experience the farm firsthand from farmers and ranchers. The program started in 2013 and has encouraged Albertans to engage with their local communities and experience agri-tourism. Read more.

Agri-News online - www.alberta.ca/agri-news.aspx and upcoming events

Other Resources

As always, you can always find more agribusiness resources on our website: https://www.southeastalbertachamber.ca/agribusiness-resources/

If you know of someone who may be interested in the work we are doing and might be interested in investing in this work through membership, please feel free to refer them to us. You can also encourage others to subscribe to our agriculture updates through this page. We look forward to continuing our work with you and pushing for our collective priorities on your behalf.

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