Commitment of $119 million in direct support for drought affected cattle producers

Last week, the Honourable David Marit, Minister of Agriculture and Minister for Saskatchewan Crop Insurance, on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, announced a commitment of $119 million in direct support for drought affected cattle producers under the AgriRecovery program. The program will provide a per head payment to help maintain breeding stock by providing cash to help offset the extraordinary costs producers have incurred this year to purchase feed and access water. The federal government is requested to provide an additional $178 million for a total program of $297 million.

Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association (SCA) Chair Arnold Balicki commented: “Since it crossed over from being “a late year for rain to start” to “a year when the rain did not come,” SCA has been working with our provincial partners and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association on suggested solutions to bring to governments. Today’s announcement of up to $200 per head of breeding cattle (pending federal agreement) is a welcome response to our request. Not only were we looking for something that allows flexibility for cattle producers, we were looking for something that keeps Saskatchewan cattle producers on an even playing field with neighbouring jurisdictions. Knowing that initial $100 per head is coming will help producers plan and take action.”

Balicki continued: “This funding is a good complement to the existing BRM programs. It will help address this extraordinary year. This year the dry area is so widespread and so severe that costs and challenges are beyond usual and what existing programs can address. That’s why we requested a per head payment and I am glad to see the response.”

“I recognize that this program does not address all the feed and cost challenges faced by backgrounders and feeders or cow calf producers. SCA will continue to work on assessing what can and needs to be done.” Balicki continued: “We are glad to have an Ag Minister and government that are open to working with industry and that responds when the need is what it is today. We will also work with the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association as we need the federal government to step in to match the commitment of the Saskatchewan government.”

Balicki concluded: “My heart goes out to all producers working through this awful year. I have spoken to many and the hurt is widespread. SCA will continue working on every Saskatchewan cattle producer’s behalf to promote and develop the industry and to advocate for solutions to challenges as they arise.”