The governments of Canada and Manitoba are introducing a new program that helps farmers adopt sustainable practices and save money.
It's called the Forage Advantage pilot.
Starting in the 2026 crop year, Manitoba farmers who plant perennial forage crops on marginal land will receive a 15 per cent discount on Forage Establishment Insurance (FEI) premiums.
Once the forage is in production the following year, farmers can also qualify for discounts on Basic or Select Hay Insurance or Forage Seed Insurance through the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) AgriInsurance program.
These programs protect against yield losses caused by natural hazards like drought, excess moisture and disease.
The pilot applies to land classified as marginal, meaning areas that struggle to produce annual crops due to issues like poor soil, salinity, erosion or excess moisture.
Farmers who choose FEI and plant forage on these acres will automatically receive the premium discount.
(Government of Manitoba news release)
