Governments of Canada and Manitoba help improve environmental practices for pig producers

February 24, 2011

Winnipeg, Manitoba—Manitoba pig producers will soon have access to more than $26 million to help them improve manure management and to reduce the risk of water contamination. This strategic investment was announced today by federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Stan Struthers.
“Manitoba producers take great pride in being responsible stewards of the land and water resources,” said Minister Ritz. “Our Government is pleased to support the environmental sustainability of the farming community as it plays an integral role in the long-term viability and competitiveness of the hog industry.”
The goal of the Manure Management Financial Assistance Program (MMFAP) is to help pig producers build and repair manure storage structures that eliminate the need for winter application. Also, by encouraging the adoption of manure treatment systems, producers are in a better position to reduce soil phosphorus on their land. This program will help reduce the risk of water contamination.
“This funding will assist producers with the cost of building or repairing manure storage structures and adopting manure treatment systems that will help them protect our water,” said Minister Struthers. “We recognize that we all share responsibility for protecting our water and we also recognize the challenges this industry has faced with the rising dollar and unstable prices.”
This program is supported by a three year investment by the federal and provincial governments (cost-shared 60-40). The Government of Canada will make almost $16 million available through the Agricultural Flexibility fund, a key component of Canada's Economic Action Plan, to finance the acquisition of manure treatment systems. The Province of Manitoba will provide more than $10 million for the building and repair of manure storage structures.
Canada’s Economic Action Plan continues to help farmers with its focus on strengthening the economy and creating jobs. Investments in viable market opportunities will help build an even stronger agriculture industry and Canadian economy. For more information, visit: www.actionplan.gc.ca.
Manitoba’s five-year economic plan is investing in job creating infrastructure stimulus projects to help position the province for the economic recovery. Supporting innovation and the green economy will pay long-term dividends to the province’s future. To find out more, visit www.gov.mb.ca/forward.