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Saskatchewan, Ottawa to boost farming program in response to trade issues and drought

REGINA — Saskatchewan's government and Ottawa say they're providing additional support to a farm income stabilization program in response to trade issues and dry conditions.
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Canola plants bloom in a pasture on a farm near Cremona, Alta., Friday, July 18, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

REGINA — Saskatchewan's government and Ottawa say they're providing additional support to a farm income stabilization program in response to trade issues and dry conditions.

The province says farmers who use AgriStability will see an increase in their compensation rate from 80 per cent to 90 per cent, resulting in larger payouts if eligible margins decline.

It says the maximum payment cap is doubling from $3 million to $6 million per operation, and livestock producers will see a new inventory valuation method for feed used on the farm.

Federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald says the changes aim to give farmers more protection.

Areas of southern Saskatchewan and Alberta are in a drought, which has decimated crop yields.

Farmers are also dealing with trade uncertainty due to tariffs from China and the United States.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2025.

The Canadian Press