Alberta — Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program
AB, Canada
The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) provides funding to support Alberta producers in implementing and maintaining eco-friendly agricultural projects.
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|fromMinToMax
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateFebruary 01, 2025
- grant_single|closingDateNovember 30, 2025
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
grant_single|grantors
- Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)
- Government of Alberta
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) offers funding to support primary producers, grazing reserve associations, and approved Indigenous applicants in Alberta in implementing and maintaining projects that enhance environmental sustainability. Eligible activities under this program include pasture management, cropland conversion, tree establishment, and wetland conservation, with funding potentially covering up to 100% of eligible expenses and opportunity costs.
grant_single_labels|projects
Funding is available under the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) for specific categories of projects and activities.
- Pasture management
- Cropland conversion
- Tree establishment
- Wetland
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$200,000
Montreal
Developing wetland conservation areas
$70,000
Calgary
Implementing rotational grazing systems to enhance pasture sustainability
$30,000
Ottawa
Tree planting initiative to restore riparian zones
$65,000
Winnipeg
Enhancing pasture management in remote areas of Winnipeg
$100,000
Vancouver
Establishing a community tree nursery
$45,000
Edmonton
Converting crop fields to pasture in suburban Edmonton
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for this grant, applicants must meet the criteria for Applicant Type and Environmental Farm Plan as specified by the program.
- Primary producer: an individual, a corporation registered in Alberta, a post-secondary institution, or an applied research/forage association responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation in Alberta that produces at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually and is responsible for input costs for that operation.
- Not a landlord whose only interest in the operation is ownership.
- Grazing Reserve Association.
- Operator of a Community Pasture.
- Approved Indigenous applicants.
- An applicant must have a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) Certificate or letter of completion or must be currently working on an EFP and is able to receive an EFP certificate or letter before the end of the project term. The EFP must be completed within 10 years from the date the proposal is received or it will not be considered valid.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Yes, there are eligible types of companies for this grant. The eligible applicants must meet certain criteria related to their type and environmental farm plan.
- Primary producer: an individual, a corporation registered in Alberta, a post-secondary institution, or an applied research/forage association responsible for day-to-day management of an agricultural operation producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually.
- Grazing Reserve Association
- Operator of a Community Pasture
- Approved Indigenous applicants
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Funding is available under specific categories, with eligible expenses detailed in the RALP Funding List provided. The program may cover the implementation costs and potentially pay opportunity costs for eligible activities.
- Pasture management
- Cropland conversion
- Tree establishment
- Wetland
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zones for this grant are within Alberta, Canada.
- Responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation in Alberta
- Registered in Alberta
grant_single_labels|criteria
Yes, the applications for the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) are evaluated based on multiple factors related to the project's impact and applicant's eligibility. Here are the evaluation and selection criteria:
- Project size
- Carbon sequestration improvement
- Number of livestock impacted
- Water quality enhancement
- Biodiversity enhancement
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Check your eligibility
- Determine whether you are eligible by reviewing the RALP Terms and Conditions.
- Confirm that the proposed activities are eligible. Eligible activities are listed in the Funding List.
- Step 2: Complete application form
- Complete and sign the RALP Application form: RALP Application Form or RALP Wetland Application form.
- Step 3: Submit application form
- Submit the completed Application Form and supporting documents by:
- Email: Send PDF applications only to [email protected]
- Mail: Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program, Sustainable CAP, Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6
- What happens next
- If you email your application: you will be notified by email that your application has been received.
- If you mail your application: you will be notified by mail or telephone that your application has been received.
- If your application is missing information: you will be notified via email or telephone and asked to submit the missing information.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Below are additional miscellaneous details about the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) grant.
- The minimum payment under the program is $2,000.
- Funding is not guaranteed until your application has been approved.
- If applying by email, send PDF applications to: [email protected].
- If applying by mail, send applications to: Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program, Sustainable CAP, Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6.
- Approval timelines may be longer than usual due to significant interest in the program.
- Program inquiries or questions on existing applications can be directed to: Toll free: 310-FARM (3276) (in Alberta) or Phone: 403-742-7901 (outside Alberta).
- For one-on-one application support, use Phone: 1-866-310-RALP (7257) or Email: [email protected].
- Email notifications will confirm receipt of emailed applications; mailed applications will be confirmed by mail or telephone.
- The program’s Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) must be completed within 10 years from the date the application proposal is received to be valid.
- Contact for general program inquiries is available from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (Monday to Friday), and closed on statutory holidays.
grant_single_labels|contact
403-742-7901
Apply to this program
Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) Overview
The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) is designed to support Alberta's primary producers, Grazing Reserve Associations, and approved Indigenous applicants by funding environmentally beneficial agricultural projects. Offering up to $300,000 in funding, this program aims to enhance carbon sequestration, water quality, and biodiversity, promoting sustainable farming practices across Alberta.
Detailed Guide to the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP)
As an effort to improve the sustainability and resilience of agricultural landscapes in Alberta, the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) offers significant funding opportunities for various stakeholders within the agriculture sector. This comprehensive guide will cover all aspects of the program, including eligibility criteria, funding categories, application processes, and key dates.
Program Overview
The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) aims to support and promote sustainable agricultural practices across Alberta. By providing funding for projects that improve carbon sequestration, water quality, and biodiversity, the program helps producers implement and sustain beneficial management practices (BMPs). Key areas of focus include pasture management, cropland conversion, tree establishment, and wetland management.
Eligibility Criteria
To access the RALP funding, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements which include:
- Primary Producer: Must be an individual, a corporation registered in Alberta, a post-secondary institution, or an applied research/forage association responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation (producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually) in Alberta.
- Other Eligible Entities: Grazing Reserve Associations, Operators of a Community Pasture, and approved Indigenous applicants.
- Environmental Farm Plan (EFP): Applicants must possess a current EFP Certificate or letter of completion, or be actively working towards one, with completion required before the project term ends.
Funding Details
RALP's funding structure is designed to cover most of the implementation costs of eligible projects and may also include opportunity costs. The program offers:
- Up to $150,000 for active primary producers.
- Up to $300,000 for Grazing Reserve Associations, operators of Community Pastures, or approved Indigenous applicants.
The minimum funding amount awarded under the program is $2,000. Additionally, projects are evaluated on various criteria, including project size, improvement in carbon sequestration, impact on livestock, and enhancements to water quality and biodiversity. Successful applicants may receive additional impact adjustment payments based on these factors.
Eligible Activities and BMP Categories
The RALP program funds projects under several categories, including:
- Pasture Management: Activities that support sustainable grazing practices, improve pasture health, and enhance biodiversity.
- Cropland Conversion: Projects that convert cropland to perennial forages or other sustainable uses.
- Tree Establishment: Planting trees to improve carbon sequestration, provide shade for livestock, and promote biodiversity.
- Wetland Management: Initiatives focused on the restoration and management of wetlands to improve water quality and habitat preservation.
For a comprehensive list of eligible activities and covered expenses, applicants should review the RALP Funding List directly.
Application Process
Applying for the RALP funding involves a series of steps, which are outlined as follows:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before applying, it is crucial to verify your eligibility by reviewing the RALP Terms and Conditions. Ensure your proposed activities align with eligible activities listed in the Funding List.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Applicants must fill out the appropriate RALP Application form. Separate forms are available for general activities and wetland-specific projects:
All relevant information and supporting documents must be included.
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
Completed application forms can be submitted via email or mail:
- Email: Send PDF applications to [email protected]
- Mail: Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program, Sustainable CAP, Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6
Application Review and Approval
Once submitted, applicants will receive a notification confirming receipt of their application. If additional information is required, applicants will be contacted via email or telephone.
Due to significant interest in the program, processing times may be extended. Applicants are advised to be patient as their submissions are reviewed. Approval notifications will be sent out as soon as possible.
Important Dates
The RALP operates on defined intake cycles. For the latest application timelines, refer to the specific dates:
- Year 2: Closed
- Year 3: February 1, 2025 – November 30, 2025
- Wetland Intake Cycle (Year 3): February 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Indigenous Applications
The program acknowledges the unique characteristics of Indigenous businesses and offers flexibility to accommodate their specific needs. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to contact RALP staff for assistance and further information on the application process and eligibility requirements. Support can be accessed by emailing [email protected].
Risk Consideration
Funding through the RALP is not guaranteed until the application has been officially approved. Applicants may choose to start their projects at their own risk; however, any expenses incurred before approval will not be reimbursed if the application is rejected.
Additional Resources
To assist applicants, several resources are available, including:
- RALP Fact Sheet – Wetlands
- RALP Fact Sheet
- RALP Terms and Conditions
- RALP Funding List
- RALP Sample Land Use Agreement – Printable
- RALP Sample (Wetlands) Grant Agreement
Other useful links include the Alberta Environmental Farm Plan, Wetland Replacement Program, On-Farm Climate Action Fund, Agricultural Clean Technology Program, ECCC Nature Smart Solutions, and Agricultural Climate Solutions Living Labs.
Contact Information
For general program inquiries or questions on existing applications, applicants can contact the RALP team during business hours:
- Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays)
- Toll-Free (in Alberta): 310-FARM (3276)
- Outside Alberta: 403-742-7901
- Email: [email protected]
For one-on-one application support:
- Phone: 1-866-310-RALP (7257)
- Email: [email protected]
Stay updated on program changes, news, and updates by subscribing to the email newsletter.
Privacy Information
Personal information provided to the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (Sustainable CAP) is utilized to assess eligibility and support the ongoing evaluation of the program. Information is collected in accordance with section 33 (c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP Act) and protected under Part 2 of the Act.
For additional details, refer to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act documentation.
