Skip to content

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

Back to Agriculture Updates

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

Community Chamber

Agriculture Updates since January 2025

Headlines

Alberta Order of Excellence
Albertans are encouraged to nominate remarkable community members, leaders and innovators for membership in the Alberta Order of Excellence.
The Order is the province’s highest honour and recognizes citizens who have made a significant and lasting contribution to their communities. 220 Albertans have been invested into the Alberta Order of Excellence since it was established in 1979. Nominations are accepted year-round but must be received by February 15 to be considered for investiture this year. More Information and Nomination Form

Young Agrarians 2025 Apprenticeship Program Application Deadline Extended
Young Agrarians apprenticeships are paid opportunities on host farms across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. For 4-12 months, apprentices work alongside seasoned farmers offering specialized learning opportunities in ecological, organic and regenerative agriculture. Apply by February 16. More Here

Alberta’s Grazing Rental Rates for 2025
Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks, has approved the grazing rental rates for Grazing Leases, Grazing Licences and Grazing Permits for 2025. These rates are based on the existing rental model, with adjustments using post return on capital employed (ROCE) data. The adjustments aim to offset some of the economic pressures caused by the Olympic averaging of spring prices and the historically high fall calf prices. More Here

Updated Guidelines Provide Clarity When Monitoring Liquid Manure Storage
Under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), the owner or operator of a liquid manure storage facility may be required to install a leakage detection system. This system will use either groundwater monitoring wells or leachate collection systems to monitor for leaks or seepage. Learn More

2025 Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture Tracking Survey - An Introduction
Alberta’s farmers and ranchers have a reputation for dedication, leadership and hard work as stewards of the land. Every 2 years, the Government of Alberta sponsors the Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture Tracking Survey (ESATS) to track use of beneficial management practices (BMPs) by Alberta’s farmers and ranchers.
The survey has been running since 1997 and focuses on BMPs that promote responsible resource management of Alberta’s soil, air, water and biodiversity. Learn More

Navigating AgriInvest’s New Requirements with Alberta EFP
The recent updates to the AgriInvest program introduce new requirements for certain farming operations. If your farm’s average Allowable Net Sales over the past three years is $1 million or more, you will need to complete an eligible agri-environmental risk assessment to continue participating in the program. While this change may feel overwhelming, it is also a chance to enhance the sustainability, efficiency and competitiveness of your operation. More Here

Still Time to Make Cultivar Decisions for 2025
Growers have some flexibility to make decisions on seed treatment and field location for each cultivar. Seed companies also have some seed available for final rotation decisions. Learn More

Ready, Set, Calve
A bit of prevention and preparation can go a long way to ensuring your calving season goes smoothly and you are prepared for what may come. Whether you are in the thick of calving season, months away or somewhere in the middle, check out this list of helpful calving tips and resources that can prepare you and your farm.  Find Them Here

Bale Feeding Options - Pros and Cons of Common Strategies
Bale feeding is common across Canada for all classes of cattle, especially during winter months. There are many different management strategies to deliver bales as feed. To help you determine the best option for you and your cattle, check out the pros and cons of three common bale feeding strategies. Learn More

Ag Hall of Fame Inducts Visionaries, Opens New Exhibit
The Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame was created in 1951 to recognize outstanding contributions in shaping the progress and prosperity of Alberta agriculture. Since 1951, 144 men and women have been named to the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame for their innovation and unwavering dedication to the ag industry. Read More

Growing Forage Crops -- What Does It Cost?
Do you know the cost of producing the forage you feed? For beef cattle producers, optimizing forage crop production is essential for financial sustainability. However, estimating the costs associated with forage production can be challenging. Learn More

Ag HR Management Program
Transform the way you manage your agricultural workforce with the Ag HR Management Program! Developed by industry experts with years of experience, this program delivers practical, actionable solutions tailored to the unique challenges of farm operations. Using real-life examples, case studies, and proven strategies from the agriculture sector, the course provides the tools and knowledge you need to build a stronger, more effective workforce. Learn More

On-Farm Climate Action Fund Expands
Agriculture Canada recently announced the expansion of the On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF), which will provide an additional $300 million to 13 organizations in continuation of their efforts to help farmers become more climate resilient over the next 3 years. Among the 13 organizations are Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) and the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association. Learn More
On-Farm Climate Action Fund

Mapping Groundwater in Southern Alberta
The province is providing a $3.8-million grant to the Alberta Geological Survey to complete a three-year study mapping the quality, quantity and location of groundwater across southern Alberta.
Better understanding this groundwater will help the province make the most out of every drop to support families, business, farmers and ranchers and the environment. Learn More

New Restrictions Due to Foot and Mouth Disease in Germany
With a new outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Germany, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is implementing import measures to safeguard the health of Canada's livestock and mitigate the economic impact of a potential FMD outbreak in Canada. Learn More

Qualified Alberta Pulse Growers Eligible for 17.5% Tax Credit for Investing in Research
The Alberta Pulse Growers Commission has confirmed that 17.5% of eligible producers’ 2024 check-off payment is eligible for the Scientific Research & Experimental Development tax credit for their investment in APG-funded research and development projects. More Here

Alberta's Canola Growers Approve Service Charge Increase
At the 35th Annual General Meeting, held on January 22, 2025, Alberta’s canola growers voted in favour of increasing the canola service charge to $1.75 per tonne. With Marketing Council approval, the increase will come into effect on August 1, 2025. Learn More

Verticillium Stripe - The Relationship Between Soil PH and Disease Presence
As canola farmers prepare for the spring planting season, attention turns to a potential issue creeping into the province — verticillium stripe. While this disease is not yet widespread in Alberta, its presence in neighbouring provinces and specific areas of southern Alberta is cause for concern. Find Out More

Know the Signs of Cold Stress in Beef Cattle
Understanding the impact cold stress can have on the health, welfare and performance of cattle is important, along with implementing management practices to lessen the impact.
Signs of cold stress in beef cattle include shivering, pale gums, frostbite, fatigue, low body temperature and low feed intakes. Learn More

Bull Valuation Calculator
Identifying a fair price during the purchase of a herd bull contributes to higher efficiency in operation economics. The Beef Cattle Research Council Bull Valuation Calculator helps to estimate break-even bull prices based on different cost and revenue parameters from your farm.
For example, inputting data such as expected calf performance and cow-to-bull ratio will help establish how much potential revenue the bull will garner, thereby increasing (or decreasing) its purchase value accordingly. Check Out the Calculator

Calving & Calf Management
Calving systems, management and timing can vary significantly from one farm to another and across the country. However, all systems share common goals, such as ensuring the birth of a healthy calf, maintaining the cow’s health, and preparing her for successful re-breeding. Learn More

Potential Trade Disruptions Dampen Strong Cattle Outlook
The cattle market continues to reach new highs. Canadian cattle operations after prolonged periods of drought and expensive feed ended last year optimistic about 2025. Cattle prices are record high, feed availability has increased and feed costs are easing. Find Out More

Will and Estate Planning?
Take the farm transition: will & estate pre-planning quiz to get your personalized, confidential report. 
Start Now

Help Shape the Future of Women in Agriculture
CAHRC needs your help! Their survey on women in agriculture is still open, and they need more voices to ensure meaningful results. This survey is open to everyone working in agriculture—not just women. Your input will help shape the tools and strategies that support the industry. Take the Survey Here

National Farmer Crisis Line Launched
The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing recently announced the launch of the National Farmer Wellness Network (NFWN) Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701), a transformative initiative designed to address the unique mental health challenges faced by Canada's farmers, farm families and agricultural workers.
This program, made possible through an investment of $1.5 million over 3 years from Farm Credit Canada, provides tailored mental health support delivered by licensed professionals trained in the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program. More Here

Environmental Stewardship Award Nominations Open
Alberta Beef Producers is accepting nominations for the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Award. Each year, this award recognizes cattle producers who go above and beyond in their commitment to environmental stewardship. The nomination deadline is March 15, 2025. Learn More

Deferred Payments - What to Know
The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) reminds growers that while there may be potential benefits, like tax savings, associated with deferred payments, when you accept a deferred payment that falls outside of program eligibility periods, you are also opting out of the CGC’s payment protection program. Learn More

Fully Funded Digital Marketing Training
Jelly Academy is offering a valuable opportunity for those in the agricultural sector. Through Digital Marketing Skills Canada, in partnership with the Government of Canada, you or your team can access fully funded digital marketing training—at no cost. This program, valued at $3,999, covers key areas such as social media, SEO, Google advertising, PR, influencer marketing, and more. Learn More

Out With the Old, In With the New
New forage varieties are helping fill gaps in the grazing season by allowing beef cattle to graze for longer each year, increasing forage quality in previously poor growing areas and providing high-quality winter feed. Learn More

New Appointments to Agricultural Products Marketing Council
The government is appointing three new members, reappointing three others and designating a new chair and vice-chair to the Alberta Agricultural Products Marketing Council. More Here

Funding Updates 

Watershed Stewardship Grant Program
If your organization has a project in mind to enhance, protect or restore Alberta’s valued water resources, consider applying for a Watershed Stewardship Grant. Stewardship and synergy groups, naturalist organizations, First Nations and Métis communities, recreational and community associations, and other non-profits can apply. Creative, innovative and collaborative stewardship projects are encouraged. The application deadline is February 21. Apply Here

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

This Giving Season, Earn up to $5,000 in Match Funding Through Crowdfunding Alberta
With the giving season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to get started on your first or next Crowdfunding Alberta campaign. Crowdfunding Alberta is an online fundraising program developed specifically for Alberta’s non-profit/voluntary sector organizations, such as agricultural societies. Through Crowdfunding Alberta, 50% of donations made to campaigns, within eight weeks of launching online, will be matched by government up to $5,000 per organization per year (April 1 – March 31). Learn More

Better Community Drought and Flood Protection
Drought conditions affected parts of the province this summer, while other communities have faced flooding in recent years. Building the local infrastructure needed to protect residents, property and critical infrastructure is costly, but necessary.
To help, more than $19 million is now available through the Drought and Flood Protection Program to help communities build the infrastructure they need. This is part of the five-year, $125-million program that’s helping municipalities and First Nations protect critical infrastructure from flooding and drought and improve public safety. Learn More

Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP) Accepting Applications
AEEP funding helps Alberta export-ready small- and medium-sized enterprises, industry associations, Indigenous organizations and economic development organizations, enhance access to international markets and attract global buyers. Apply Here

On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) Re-opens for a Limited Number of Applications
After reviewing and approving more than 1,000 applications, RDAR recently announced the re-opening of the 2024 OFCAF program for an additional intake of 150 funding applications. The new intake will fulfill RDAR’s commitment to distributing all available OFCAF funds to Alberta producers, enabling them to adopt impactful, sustainable changes on their farms and ranches. More Here, ARGO online application system

Funding Opportunities
Curious about which funding stream is right for you?
RDAR currently has two opportunities open to access funding:

Grant Funding for Alberta Producers
Alberta producers, processors and organizations who are looking to secure funding for an upcoming project through Sustainable CAP should be mindful of where they are getting information. Learn More Here

New Sustainable Agricultural Partnership program
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership has launched a new program called the On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP). OFEP was created by combining the past Farm Technology Program and Efficient Grain Handling Program, along with some new opportunities that were selected in response to industry feedback collected in the fall of 2023. The intent of the On-Farm Efficiency Program is to support producers in achieving environmental benefits by improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs. The Program funds primary producers to carry out projects that optimize the use of inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides and energy. When inputs reach their targets with precision, it is a win-win for producers and the environment: producers save money, fewer inputs are applied off-target, and fewer emissions are released to the atmosphere. This program has four Streams. An applicant may apply to any or all of the Program Streams:

  • Smart Farm Technology
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Farm Security
  • Efficient Grain Handling

The program opened for applications on August 14, 2024 and funding is retroactive to April 1, 2023. Eligible expenses are funded at a cost-share rate of 50%. The funding maximum per applicant is $150,000 over the duration of the Program (2023-2028). The maximum funding per Stream over the duration of the Program is: $50,000 for Smart Farm Technology, $50,000 for Energy Efficiency, $2,000 for Farm Security, and $100,000 for Efficient Grain Handling. For some Eligible Items, there is a maximum grant stated in the Funding List.

While on the Sustainable CAP website go to the bottom of the home page, enter your email, and click ‘send’ to start receiving regular Sustainable CAP updates. Please visit the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership page for program information, including how to apply. 

Agriculture Labour Task Force Grant Program 
This grant supports producers and processors recruit, hire, and retain workers in the agriculture and agri-food industry. Two grant streams are available. One to improve awareness of related careers and another to support improving HR practices and capacity. Find out more.

AgriDiversity Program
The AgriDiversity Program aims to help under-represented groups in Canadian agriculture, including youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities, to fully participate in the sector by helping these groups address the key issues and barriers they often face for sector participation. Find out more.

4 Key Details to Know About Venture Capital Funding
What food and beverage processors need to know about accessing funds through venture capital funding. Learn More

Producer Research and Evaluation Program
RDAR's Producer Research and Evaluation Program (PREP) was created to support on-farm research allowing producers to evaluate emerging technologies, products and production practices. On-farm research will support new strategies to be tested within unique farm conditions and to support decision making with data advancing profitability, competitiveness and sustainability.
The maximum total funding available for PREP is $1 million in 2024 Learn more about RDAR funding

Sowing Seeds of Success for Future Farmers
Agriculture is essential to Alberta’s history, economy and future prosperity. Over the past 20 years, the number of young and middle-aged producers in agriculture has seen steep declines, while the number of farmers over 55 has increased. The province is aiming to help reverse that trend with changes to Agriculture Financial Services Corporation’s Next Generation Loan program (Next Gen). More Here

Enhancing the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program  
The governments of Alberta and Canada are enhancing the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program with a $1.9 million investment to support Alberta Beef Producers. Last year, beef was Alberta's largest agri-food export at $3.9 billion, making up 22 per cent of the province’s total. Under this initiative, farmers and ranchers can receive up to $5,000 for expenses that align their operations with VBP+ certification guidelines. Learn more 

Supporting Genomics Innovation in Alberta
New funding from the province will support cutting-edge genomics research in health, agriculture and environmental technology. The province is investing $15 million over three years into Genome Alberta, a not-for-profit research funding organization working toward a better future through genomic innovation. Read More Here

Protecting Communities from Drought and Floods
Drought and floods can damage homes and businesses, disrupt critical infrastructure and, in extreme scenarios, pose a serious threat to public safety. In recent years, the impacts of drought and flooding have been felt across Alberta. More Here - Drought and Flood Protection Program

Labour Resources

2024 Survey of Compensation Practices in Canadian Agriculture - Executive Summary Report
Across Canada, the highly competitive nature of the talent marketplace has made it an increasingly difficult landscape for agricultural producers to navigate. This salary survey and human resource benchmarking initiative equips producers with relevant and practical data resources to better compete in today’s workplace. More Here

Free Counselling Sessions
Farming is 24-7-365, but you don't have to handle it alone. Get support from AgKnow's farm-informed counsellors and get up to four free counselling sessions. This program covers counselling sessions for farmers, their families, farm employees, veterinarians and registered veterinarian technicians. Learn more and book a counselling session.

Student Work Placement Program (SWPP)
Growing Opportunities through the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) is available. Visit the SWPP Application Page and complete the online application form. If you'd like to learn more about SWPP, including eligibility criteria and detailed program information, please visit the website. For any questions or additional information, reach out to Megan Lockhart at mlockhart@cahrc-ccrha.ca. 

Phase 2 of the Recognized Employer Pilot under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Employers are now able to submit applications for positions on Service Canada’s Phase 2 Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) occupations list. These 84 occupations are in high-demand and show shortage conditions based on the Canadian Occupational Projection System assessment of recent labour market conditions (2019-2021). The deadline to submit applications to become a recognized employer is September 16, 2024, however recognized employers will continue to have access to simplified applications for the 84 designated occupations until the end of the pilot on December 31, 2026. If you have questions on the REP, please visit Canada.ca or contact the Employer Contact Centre. 

Health and Safety on Alberta Farms and Ranches
A guide to rights and obligations for farmers and workers under Alberta's OHS legislation. Provides information about hazard identification and control, incident reporting and investigations. More Here  

AgSafe FarmSafe Plan Learning Program Launched
This is a free, self-paced learning program that introduces Alberta producers to health and safety fundamentals and explains how to apply this information to their specific operations. It was designed for both family farms and farms with employees. It will walk you through creating a farm-specific health and safety program, explain why these elements are needed, and support you in putting your farm’s health and safety program into action. Learn more and register.

If you have farm-specific health and safety questions or require support relating to health and safety on your farm, please contact AgSafe Alberta at info@agsafeab.ca.   You may be eligible for onsite farm visits and up to 10 hours of advisor support at no cost!

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

We were pleased to launch our partnership with the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council at our Ag-Forum on February 21. For anyone interested in the HR toolkit, please use this QR code to gain access to the free HR Toolkit offered during the program.




Events, Webinars and Podcasts

FCC Events including Business Plan Boot Camp & Young Farmer Summit: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/events.html

Agri-News online - www.alberta.ca/agri-news.aspx and upcoming events
AgKnow Winter Webinar Series - February 13 - Professionals and Family Farm Transitions  
High Acid Hot Fill Workshop, virtual - February 13
Agritourism: Diversifying income through on-farm experiences webinar - February 13
Working Well Workshop - Virtual February 13 - March 25
Rotational Grazing for Sheep and Goats Webinar Series - February 18, February 25 & March 4
Bridging the Gap Farm Transition Workshop -  February 25 - Lethbridge
Farm Training: Grants & Financing: Expanding your small business, virtual - March 3
Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership Value-Added Grant Program Overview - March 6
Pesticide Applicator Workshop, virtual - March 20
FCC Young Farmer Summit, virtual - March 26
AgKnow Winter Webinar Series - March 26 -Women and the Intergenerational Transfer of Family Farms
Grazing Basics for Success Workshop Series
Sustaining Barley Webinar Series
Beef Cattle Research Council Winter Webinar Series
Webinar Series for Beef Producers and Vet Teams - More Here
Nutrient Management Webinar Series
Foundations in Agricultural Management - Free Online Course

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.

Powered By GrowthZone