On February 25, 2026, in Ottawa, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada announced an important update to the AgriStability program to better support Canadian livestock producers. The changes add pasture-related feed costs as an allowable expense under the program, starting with the 2026 program year. This amendment aims to provide fairer support for producers whose animals graze on land they do not own, including cow-calf, sheep, and goat farmers who rely heavily on rented pastureland.
By including these costs, AgriStability strengthens risk management tools for farmers, helping the agricultural sector remain resilient amid rising expenses and changing market conditions. The update reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that support programs align with the realities of livestock operations and help protect farming businesses from income losses.
AgriStability is a business risk management program designed to protect Canadian producers against significant declines in income due to production losses, cost increases, or adverse market conditions. The addition of pasture-related feed costs demonstrates responsiveness to producer needs and reinforces equitable support across the sector. This change follows a commitment made by federal, provincial, and territorial Ministers of Agriculture during their July 2025 meeting.
Minister Heath MacDonald emphasized that the inclusion of pasture-related feed costs ensures fairer support for farmers relying on rented pastureland and highlights the government’s dedication to providing effective programs that protect Canadian farming operations.
