CFGA launching Rotational Grazing On-Farm Implementation Project
On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) Funding is available for producers in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Quebec to help them plan and implement rotational grazing BMPs.
The Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA) and Alberta partner ARECA (Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta) are inviting applications from farmers and ranchers who are interested in planning and implementing rotational grazing management practices (BMPs).
The association recently launched its On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) project, Rotational Grazing On-Farm Implementation. The program will see up to $10 million of funding go to farmers in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Quebec to help them plan and implement rotational grazing BMPs that can work for their operations.
A key component of the project is training local mentors/ advisors on BMPs to support producers so they are prepared to successfully implement rotational grazing systems on their farms. To do this, producers can take part in online training through CFGA’s Advanced Grazing Systems course, which provides the basics of rotational grazing. They can also receive additional support by working with a mentor through the Farm Resilience Mentorship (FaRM) Program, which is offered in partnership with Farmers for Climate Solutions (FCS). The training is online and on demand. Provincial partners and a network of mentors will implement in-person events at the local level.
If producers require assistance to develop or refine their grazing plan, these costs are eligible for reimbursement as well. Once producers have completed a rotational grazing plan either on their own or with the help of a mentor or professional, they can apply for implementation funding. CFGA is prepared to cost-share the expenses at 70 percent, and the producer will provide 30 percent, including in-kind contributions.
Funding can be used for the following activities:
Costs incurred for fencing materials and livestock watering systems infrastructure to create new or strengthen existing rotational grazing systems
Planning, technical assessments or engineered designs, such as rotational grazing plans, or engineering or technical design work by a qualified professional
Activities to implement grazing plans
Activities to implement low-methane pastures, including increased alfalfa content, high-quality forage and species containing tannin, such as sainfoin
Other activities related to the adoption of short-duration grazing suited for rangelands
The CFGA is working with the following provincial partners to deliver its OFCAF project: British Columbia Forage Council (BCFC), Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA), Saskatchewan Cattlemen's Association (SCA) and Conseil québécois des plantes fourragères (CQPF).
Producers can visit the CFGA website for more information on rotational grazing and the advanced grazing systems course and to sign up for more information.