PROVINCE PROVIDES OPTIONS TO FARMERS AFFECTED BY POOR PASTURE CONDITIONS

The Government of Saskatchewan today announced a new policy to help farmers who cannot pasture their herds due to damage caused by drought and flooding.

“We recognize that many Saskatchewan farmers are unable to use their pasture land this spring, and this is just one way we can provide them with some assistance,” Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. 

The Emergency Grazing Policy provides one-time limited access to certain Crown lands for qualified producers seeking emergency grazing due to drought and/or flooding in their home area.

Certain community pastures operated by Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food can offer limited one-time grazing to producers.  As well, there are several quarters of vacant Crown land available on a short term grazing season basis.

Emergency grazing is open to residents of Saskatchewan.  Producers must provide proof of ownership of the cattle, and cattle must be branded with a registered brand.  To be eligible, the producer must be located in an area that has been impacted by either flooding or drought. Farmers are encouraged to contact their nearest Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Regional office to apply.

In the Tisdale area, call 306-878-8815 and in the North Battleford area, call 306-446-7469.  Farmers can also contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Jenna Robertson
Agriculture and Food
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: jroberts@agr.gov.sk.ca