Water Program — On-farm water supply
Highlights
This program is designed to help your agricultural business thrive by providing financial support for water management projects. You can receive up to $35,000 per fiscal year for on-farm irrigation system purchases and upgrades, and up to $40,000 for on-farm water supply projects. This funding can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, making it easier for you to invest in essential infrastructure.
Why should you apply? This program offers a unique opportunity to improve your water management practices, which can lead to better crop yields and more efficient use of resources. Unlike other financing options, this program is backed by the government, ensuring reliability and support throughout the process. Additionally, the application process is straightforward, and you can get assistance from Agriculture and Irrigation Water Specialists to ensure your project meets all requirements.
What's in it for you? By being approved for this program, you can enhance your farm's sustainability and resilience against climate variability. Improved water management can lead to long-term success and growth for your business. Plus, the financial support provided can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, allowing you to allocate resources to other critical areas of your operation.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- There are no repayment terms or interest rates. This is a non-repayable grant.
Eligible Expenses:
- On-Farm Irrigation System Purchases: Up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $17,500 per parcel.
- On-Farm Irrigation System Upgrades: Up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $6,000 per parcel.
- On-Farm Water Supply Projects: Up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $40,000 per applicant for the period April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2028.
Use of Funds:
- Funds can be used for the purchase and upgrade of on-farm irrigation systems.
- Funds can also be used for on-farm water supply projects, including dugouts, dams, and spring developments.
Restrictions on Use of Funds:
- Funds cannot be used for expenses incurred before April 1, 2023.
- Funds cannot be used for projects that do not meet legislative and program requirements.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with applying for or receiving this grant.
Qualifications
- Must be a primary producer operating in Alberta.
- Must be responsible for input costs or agricultural crops for livestock.
- Must produce at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually.
- Must own an irrigated agricultural operation in Alberta (for On-Farm Irrigation Stream).
Must be liable to pay Alberta income tax or corporate tax (or claim losses) on income from the production of farm commodities under the Income Tax Act (Canada) or the Alberta Corporate Tax Act (for On-Farm Water Supply Stream).
Disqualifications:
- Landlords whose only interest in the crop or livestock is ownership of the land.
- Applicants previously approved for payment from the program for the same project type for the parcel described in the application.
Description
This program offers your business a chance to improve its water management practices. You can receive up to $35,000 per year for on-farm irrigation projects or up to $40,000 for on-farm water supply projects over a five-year period.
Funding can cover:
- 50% of eligible expenses for purchasing or upgrading on-farm irrigation systems.
- Up to 50% of costs for projects like dugouts, dams, and spring developments.
This funding helps you manage water resources more efficiently, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for your business. The program shares the cost with you, making it easier to invest in essential water management improvements without bearing the full financial burden.
Program Steps
Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the Water Program Application form. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
Prepare Documentation:
- Gather the following documents:
- Proof of Alberta income tax or corporate tax payment.
- Financial statements showing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities produced annually.
- Proof of ownership of an irrigated agricultural operation (for On-Farm Irrigation Stream).
- Proof of payment for eligible expenses.
- Approved Construction Sheet (for dugouts, dams, and spring developments under the On-Farm Water Supply Stream).
- Gather the following documents:
Contact an Agriculture and Irrigation Water Specialist:
- For projects involving dugouts, dams, and spring developments, speak to a specialist to receive an approved Construction Sheet. Call 310-FARM to get in touch with a specialist.
Submit the Application:
- Send the completed application form and supporting documents via email or mail.
- Email:
- On-Farm Irrigation Stream: [email protected]
- On-Farm Water Supply Stream: [email protected]
- Mail:
- Sustainable-CAP Water Program Natural Resource Innovation Section Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Agriculture Centre 100, 5401 1 Avenue South Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4V6
- Sustainable-CAP Water Program Program Delivery Section Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation 7000 113 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
- Email:
- Send the completed application form and supporting documents via email or mail.
Wait for Confirmation:
- After submission, you will be notified by email or telephone that your application has been received. If you do not receive confirmation, contact the program staff.
Provide Additional Information if Requested:
- If your application is missing information, you will be contacted by email or telephone. Submit the missing information promptly to avoid delays.
Review and Approval:
- Your application will be reviewed. If approved, you will be notified of the funding details and any further steps required.
Project Implementation and Reimbursement:
- Once approved, proceed with your project. Ensure all expenses are documented and invoices are under the Legal Name stated on your application. Submit proof of payment for reimbursement.