Provincial funding aims to support climate resiliency on farms

Provincial funding is being rolled out to help farmers and ranchers adopt regenerative agriculture practices, improve farms’ drought resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The province has set aside $4.4 million for the Beneficial Management Practices program, which will support projects that better prepare farmers and ranchers for dry spells, such as by building or expanding on-farm water storage facilities, upgrading dams, reservoirs and irrigation systems used for livestock and crops, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices.

“B.C. farmers and ranchers are stewards of the land, and this funding will help them improve their farms’ sustainability and efficiency, while reducing their operating expenses,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food.

“Helping livestock and crop producers prepare for drought and adopt regenerative farming methods is good for B.C.’s environment and meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets, as well as our provincial food security and economy.”

B.C. producers will also be able to access the funds for projects that support capturing and storing carbon in soil by establishing, enhancing, protecting and managing native range and riparian habitats. Additional funding will also be available for improving on-farm energy-efficient projects, such as grain dryers and developing bio-gas systems.

“We’re helping local farmers prepare for climate change so that the soil we all depend on continues to produce food into the future and absorbs more climate-damaging greenhouse gases, keeping it out of the atmosphere,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

“This investment is an important part of our CleanBC Roadmap and our Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy. By working together with agricultural producers, we’re building a cleaner, stronger future for everyone that protects our incredible local food system, enhances natural habitats and reduces emissions at the same time.”

Farmers and ranchers looking to access the Beneficial Management Practices program for funding can apply to the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C. The deadline to submit an application is August 10.