Saskatchewan Stock Growers calls for additional drought assistance

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Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) says it is taking action to support livestock producers, by releasing the contents of a drought-survival proposal submitted to the provincial and federal governments this week.

“We greatly appreciate the measures Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada have implemented especially, the triggering of AgriRecovery assessments,” says Kelcy Elford, president of SSGA. “However, there is no end in sight for these extreme conditions. We need additional, immediate action to be taken, including an announcement of AgriRecovery programming to ensure that livestock producers are able to make critical, time-sensitive business decisions. We have been closely reviewing existing policy and programs that can be adapted. We have confidence in our government. They listen to and understand our problems and welcome actionable solutions.”

SSGA is encouraging both levels of government to work with grain companies to remove any barriers that are preventing the salvage of feed from forward-contracted crops.

SSGA is also recommending that governments collaborate with the shortline and national railway companies to find affordable transportation for relocating feed, feed grains, and by-products to deficit areas in the province.

SSGA is calling for additional changes to the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation’s process for adjusting and pricing, as well as immediate changes for financial management and cash flow via the AgriInvest and AgriStability program, and payments to loans.

“With the extreme drought conditions present across the province, we are calling on the federal government to expand the Livestock Tax Deferral Program announced last week to a five-year program to include all classes of cattle and regions of Saskatchewan,” Elford adds.

A full list of drought resources can be found at the SSGA website, here.

The Farm Stress Line is free and confidential: 1-800-667-4442.

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