The provincial and federal governments are offering help for livestock producers impacted by the drought and extreme heat-related growing conditions.

Livestock producers who altered their usual grazing practices for more than 21 days this season can apply for financial support to cover losses incurred to manage and maintain female breeding animals such as cattle, bison, horses, elk, sheep, goats, alpacas, yak, musk ox, deer, water buffalo and llamas. 

The $165 million initiative is called the 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance Response.

Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson, explains that Alberta livestock producers have faced multiple challenges.

"This year's drought and excessive heat have resulted in our ranchers facing extra costs due to lost grazing days. We recognize their stress as the winter-feeding months approach. This program will help alleviate some of the cost pressures, and support producers in protecting their livelihoods while they continue to put food on tables around the world.”

Some farmers in and around Wheatland County have struggled with the conditions when it came to their farms and livestock operations. 

Alberta farmers are getting $66 million from Alberta’s government and $99 million from the federal government.  Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) will administer the program.

Eligible producers could access up to $150 per head for breeding animals.

For more information visit the Government of Alberta's website here. 

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