Governments Boost Investment in Farmland Sustainability
Canada and Ontario are directing $14.6 million into farmland resiliency projects — from wetlands to grasslands — giving farmers new tools to protect soil, water, and productivity.
The funding, delivered through the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP), is part of the province’s Grow Ontario Strategy to support competitiveness while addressing climate and economic pressures. Federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said the measures will help farmers care for their soil and water while strengthening Canada’s food system.
Two Key Initiatives
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Marginal Lands Initiative – With $9.6 million in new funding, Conservation Ontario will help farmers restore wetlands, create pollinator habitats, and enhance marginal farmland. These projects will also boost carbon storage and cut emissions. Conservation Ontario Chair Dave Barton noted that the initiative reflects a collaborative effort to support farms and protect land vital to Ontario’s economy.
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Agricultural Sustainability Initiative – Backed by $5 million, the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association will support projects such as tree planting, grassland development, water retention, and reduced tillage. According to Executive Director Kerry Wright, the initiative aligns with the association’s mission to improve soil, water, air, and crop management while building long-term resiliency.
National Context
This investment is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3.5 billion federal-provincial-territorial framework. Ontario farmers will see up to $56.7 million in RALP support over the life of the program. Ontario Agriculture Minister Trevor Jones said the province is proud to back farmers with investments that protect farmland and support the rural economy.
Funding Applications
Applications for the Marginal Lands Initiative open September 22, 2025, through Conservation Ontario. Funding amounts for the OSCIA stream will vary by project type and scope.
This latest investment underscores a broader shift toward sustainable practices that protect farmland while ensuring Ontario farmers remain competitive and resilient in the years ahead.
