Saskatchewan budget provides more for agriculture

Coming out one of the worst growing seasons because of flooded farmland, the provincial government is making one the largest provincial agriculture investments.

The government said funding for agriculture in the budget increased by $31 million to $418 million, it represents the second largest investment in Saskatchewan’s history.

More than three quarters of the money will be used to fully fund business risk management programs including Crop Insurance, AgriStability and AgriInvest.

“Our government is continuing to work to meet the needs of Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers and this budget is another step in that direction,” said Bob Bjornerud, provincial agriculture minister, in a news release.

“With record coverage and funding for Crop Insurance, an increased Unseeded Acreage Benefit and a commitment to fully funding all agriculture programs up front, producers can head into the upcoming growing season knowing this government will stand behind them.”

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Farmers will also be able to hold on to more of their money with a reduction on the education portion of property tax.

The mill rate will be reduced from 7.08 to 3.91 on agricultural land.

The government also introduced the Saskatchewan Renewable Diesel Program, which provides incentives to help meet a two per cent renewable diesel mandate by next July.

In addition, there is $18 million to support agricultural research and development. There is also funding for rat control measures and for the provincial branch of the SPCA.

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