Canada updates AgriStability to include pasture-related feed costs starting in 2026, offering fairer support for livestock producers relying on rented grazing land.
In case you missed it last week, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced that pasture-related feed costs will be added as an allowable expense under AgriStability starting with the 2026 program year.
The update addresses rising operational costs and longstanding disparities affecting producers who rely on rented or leased grazing land. For many livestock operations—particularly cow-calf, sheep, and goat producers—grazing animals on land they do not own represents a major and unavoidable expense.
Until now, these costs were not fully reflected in AgriStability’s margin calculations. The amended guidelines close that gap, supporting more equitable treatment across livestock operations regardless of land ownership.
Pasture-related feed costs are defined as expenses incurred by livestock producers for grazing animals on land they do not own. Incorporating these expenses into AgriStability ensures more balanced support between land-owning and land-renting operations—an important correction that producers and industry groups have sought for years.
“Canadian livestock producers deserve risk management programs that reflect the realities of their operations," said Minister MacDonald. "Adding pasture-related feed costs as an allowable expense ensures fairer support for those who rely on rented pastureland.”
AgriStability plays a critical role in protecting producers from large declines in income due to production losses, rising input costs, or adverse market conditions. By integrating pasture-related feed costs into its calculations, the program will better reflect the true financial pressures on livestock operations and offer improved protection during difficult years.
What This Means for Producers
Beginning in 2026:
- Livestock producers will be able to claim eligible pasture-related feed costs as allowable expenses under AgriStability.
- The program will better recognize the realities of operations dependent on rented or leased pastureland.
- Producers who experience income declines will have more accurate support calculations that reflect actual grazing expenses.
- Risk management tools will be better aligned with the cost structures of modern livestock operations.
For cow-calf farmers, this update will offer vital financial relief during years of high feed costs or challenging grazing conditions.
Photo Credit: Pexels - Mark Stebnicki