How much funding can be received?

Get a grant of up to $15,000 per parcel to cover up to 25% of the costs of purchasing a new on-farm irrigation system, and up to $5,000 per parcel for on-farm irrigation system upgrades. The maximum grant for on-farm irrigation projects is $30,000 per app

grant_single_labels|projects

The eligibility for this grant requires applicants to be primary producers operating in Alberta. This suggests that the eligible geographical area is limited to Alberta, where the program is administered and agriculture operations are located.

Primary producers operating within Alberta, Canada.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$15,000

Installing a new on-farm irrigation system to improve crop yield and water efficiency

$5,000

Adding irrigation system upgrades in the greenhouse to support year-round vegetable production

$5,000

Upgrading the existing on-farm irrigation system to enhance water distribution efficiency

$3,750

Establishing a drip irrigation system for the vegetable garden to reduce water wastage

$15,000

Developing a new water supply stream to support expanded farming operations

$11,250

Implementing solar-powered irrigation pumps to enhance sustainability and reduce operational costs

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the profile of the primary producer and proposed activities.

The applicant must be a primary producer operating in Alberta.
The applicant must be responsible for input costs or agricultural crops for livestock producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually.
Eligibility does not include a landlord whose only interest in the crop or livestock is that of ownership of the land.
For the On-Farm Irrigation Stream, the applicant must own an irrigated agricultural operation in Alberta.
For the On-Farm Irrigation Stream, the applicant must not have been previously approved for payment from the program for the same project type for the parcel described in the application.
For the On-Farm Water Supply Stream, the applicant 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.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

Eligible applicants for the Water Program in Alberta include primary producers who meet certain criteria:1. On-Farm Irrigation Stream: - Must be a primary producer operating in Alberta. - Responsible for input costs or agriculture crops/livestock producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually. - Cannot be a landlord with interest solely in land ownership. - Must own an irrigated agricultural operation in Alberta. - Must not have been previously approved for the same project type for the same parcel.2. On-Farm Water Supply Stream: - Must be a primary producer responsible for input costs or agriculture crops/livestock producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually, excluding landlords whose interest is only the land. - Must be liable to pay Alberta income tax or corporate tax (or claim losses) on income from farm commodity production.3. Indigenous Applicants: - Indigenous businesses in the agriculture and food sector with distinct characteristics are also eligible and may receive dedicated support to navigate the program requirements.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

The grant eligibility criteria focus on primary producers in Alberta, operating within specific agricultural sectors. Specific exclusions are not overtly stated, but there are inherent restrictions based on the nature of the primary activity.

Only primary producers with agricultural operations are considered eligible.
Companies that do not manage input costs for at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities per year are not eligible.
Landlords who solely own the land without involvement in crop or livestock production are excluded.
Entities not involved in farm commodity production liable to pay taxes under the Income Tax Act or Alberta Corporate Tax Act do not qualify.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

Eligible activities for this grant program focus on enhancing water management practices on farms through the adoption of improved irrigation and water supply systems. These efforts align with managing water quality risks and adapting to climate variability.

Purchases for on-farm irrigation systems.
Upgrades to existing on-farm irrigation systems.
Development of dugouts, dams, and springs.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

The grant covers specific eligible expenses related to on-farm irrigation and water supply projects.

On-farm irrigation system purchases: Eligible for 50% of expenses up to $17,500 per parcel.
On-farm irrigation system upgrades: Eligible for 50% of expenses up to $6,000 per parcel.
On-farm water supply projects: Standard incentive offers up to 50% for eligible expenses, while special incentives vary based on project specifics.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant include assessing the eligibility of applicants based on income thresholds, ownership criteria, and project type alignment with program streams. The applications will be reviewed against legislative requirements, program funding constraints, and the completion of necessary approval processes.

Primary producer status operating in Alberta
Minimum annual production of $25,000 worth of farm commodities
Ownership requirements for land and water resources
Compliance with federal and provincial taxation laws
Project alignment with On-Farm Irrigation or On-Farm Water Supply streams
Prior application history and approval for same project type
Engagement with relevant authorities for project approval

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Review the Water Program Terms and Conditions to ensure eligibility.
- Confirm that the proposed activities are listed as eligible in the On-Farm Irrigation Stream Funding List and On-Farm Water Supply Stream Funding List.
Step 2: Complete Application Form
- Complete and sign the Water Program Application Form.
Step 3: Submit Application Form
- Submit the completed Application Form and supporting documents by email or mail.
- Email: [email protected] or [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
- Or submit to: Sustainable-CAP Water Program, Program Delivery Section, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, 7000 113 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
- Fax: 403-381-5765
- For assistance, call: 310-FARM (3276) and ask for an Agriculture and Irrigation Water Specialist.
Step 4: Confirmation of Submission
- If emailed, expect a confirmation email that your application was received.
- If mailed or faxed, expect a confirmation by telephone or email.
- If missing information, you will be contacted by email or telephone to provide the necessary details.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

Applicants must receive an approved Construction Sheet for dugouts, dams, and spring developments before planning and construction.
Proof of application for water license or amendment may be required.
Invoices must be under the Legal Name stated on the application.
All expenses prior to April 1, 2023, are considered ineligible for reimbursement.
Only projects compliant with applicable federal and provincial legislation will be funded.
Limited funding means grant approval is not guaranteed, and applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Potential applicants are encouraged to speak directly with an Agriculture and Irrigation Water Specialist for guidance.

grant_single_labels|contact

403-381-5532

Apply to this program

Enhancing Agricultural Water Management with the Water Program

The Water Program is a strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing agricultural water management by assisting primary producers in adopting superior water management practices. This program, available since April 3, 2023, helps mitigate risks related to water quality and supply, adjust to climate variability, and utilize water resources more efficiently through its two streams: the On-Farm Irrigation Stream and the On-Farm Water Supply Stream.

Diving into the Water Program: Benefits and Requirements

The Water Program is a comprehensive framework designed to improve agricultural water management practices in Alberta, providing significant support to primary producers in the form of funding and guidance. This initiative is pivotal for those involved in agricultural operations, particularly as it addresses critical challenges related to water quality and supply, adapting to climate changes, and promoting the efficient use of water resources.

The program is structured into two main streams, each offering targeted assistance to maximize impact and address specific needs within the agricultural sector. The On-Farm Irrigation Stream is focused on enhancing irrigation infrastructures, allowing producers to adopt or upgrade their irrigation systems. This not only facilitates better resource management but also supports sustainable agricultural practices by ensuring that water is used effectively and efficiently. Participants in this stream can benefit from funding that covers up to 50% of eligible expenses, granting up to $35,000 annually per fiscal year.

Conversely, the On-Farm Water Supply Stream supports projects involving developments such as dugouts, dams, and springs. For applicants pursuing this stream, it is imperative to collaborate with an Agriculture and Irrigation Water Specialist to ensure compliance with all legislative and program requirements. The stream offers various cost-sharing opportunities with standard incentives covering up to 50% of eligible expenses. However, project-specific special incentives may vary, highlighting the bespoke nature of the support offered.

An essential component of the Water Program is the adherence to eligibility criteria, which ensure that all participants are actively involved in agricultural production and aim to achieve substantial improvements in water management practices. With specific conditions attached to the receipt of funding, applicants must be ready to provide detailed accounts of their expenses and comply with legislative requirements, particularly concerning water licensing. This rigorous approach not only maintains the integrity of the program but also ensures that funded projects significantly contribute to sustainability and resilience in agricultural landscapes.

Moreover, while this funding program does not guarantee reimbursement of pre-approval expenses, it encourages planning and strategic execution of water management projects that align with both local and federal regulations. The application process requires thorough documentation and adherence to deadlines, emphasizing the need for well-organized project planning and execution. Given the limited annual funding, applicants are advised to present comprehensive applications that demonstrate their project’s alignment with the program's goals, ensuring their initiatives stand out and are prioritized for funding.

Ultimately, the Water Program represents more than just financial support; it embodies a commitment to fostering resiliency and public trust within Alberta's agricultural sector. By participating in this program, producers not only receive the necessary resources to implement impactful water management practices but also contribute to a broader environmental and economic sustainability agenda. This initiative underscores the importance of strategic resource management in agriculture, reinforcing practices that will serve the sector well into future generations.