News Sustainability Water Issues
Manitoba livestock producers given funding options to construct wells, develop permanent pipelines and other means to combat dry conditions

Winnipeg – Manitoba livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba, including construction of new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts.

“Safe and reliable water sources are critical for livestock producers during dry conditions,” said Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau. “Through this cost-shared program, livestock producers can access funding to protect valuable groundwater sources and adopt sustainable management practices. With the emerging risks posed by climate change, these farmer support programs are more important than ever.”

Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include:
• water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts
• solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems
• permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts
• permanent pipeline development

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (for example, fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the beneficial management practice criteria.

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1. Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan with their claim (see ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, 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, or go to gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.