The Saskatchewan government is introducing a new relief program for livestock producers grappling with drought. 

The program will be administered by the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation and is aimed at offsetting feeding costs as below-average rainfall continues to leave fields and pastures dry.  

 Through the program, livestock producers can receive financial aid amounting to $80 per head, with the government providing up to $70 million. It is open to those involved in various breeding stocks, including beef cattle, bison, horses, elk, deer, sheep, and goats. 

 David Marit, the province’s minister of agriculture, said he met with around 30 ranchers a few weeks ago. He said many want to downsize their herds due to challenges securing and transporting feed. 

“Recognizing the dire circumstances these ranchers are facing, it was imperative for us to expedite this announcement,” Marit told reporters on Monday, as quoted by CBC News.  

Eligible producers can apply by submitting receipts and other supporting documents. Marit said they are expecting to receive “a few thousand” applications. 

He also revealed that Lawrence MacAulay, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food, has received an application from Saskatchewan for an assessment under the AgriRecovery framework. 

The move sets the stage for further assistance to livestock producers, potentially through an extended relief scheme or a cost-sharing agreement between the federal and provincial governments. 

Saskatchewan has taken other steps to assist farmers and livestock producers amid current drought conditions. In July, the province implemented crop insurance changes to allow a greater number of acres with low-yielding crops to be repurposed for livestock feed.

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