Western areas designated for drought assistance

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay has announced an initial list of designated regions in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba where Livestock Tax Deferral has been authorized for 2023 due to extreme weather conditions.

The Government of Canada recognizes the significant challenges livestock producers in Western Canada are facing due to exceptionally dry conditions, according to a press release. Compounded by subsequent years of drought, pastures and forage production are significantly impacted, leading to low feed supplies for livestock.

The federal government has also worked with the governments of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan on joint AgriRecovery assessments to examine the impacts of the drought and wildfires. Work with provinces is progressing to finalize the AgriRecovery process and to determine any additional support required to cover the extraordinary costs incurred by producers.