Prairie farmers continue to face weather extremes, shifting moisture patterns and increasing soil pressure. As a result, more producers are looking at cropping systems that offer long-term stability. A new pilot program from the Governments of Canada and Manitoba supports this shift by rewarding farmers who seed perennial forages on marginal acres.
Beginning in the 2026 crop year, farmers who plant perennial forage on low-productivity or sensitive land will receive a 15% discount on Forage Establishment Insurance premiums. Once the forage is established, they may also qualify for reduced premiums on Basic or Select Hay Insurance or Forage Seed Insurance through MASC’s AgriInsurance program.
This pilot offers savings, but it also encourages practices that build stronger and more resilient soils.
Why Perennial Forages Fit Marginal Acres
Marginal land often struggles to produce annual crops. Issues such as salinity, erosion, poor soil structure or chronic moisture problems can reduce yield potential. Perennial forages, however, perform better in these conditions. They also bring several clear benefits:
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Improved soil structure and organic matter
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Reduced erosion and runoff
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Better support for pollinators and wildlife
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Lower weed and disease pressure
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Increased carbon sequestration
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More stable yields with fewer inputs
Because of these advantages, both beef and dairy producers can see more reliable forage supplies and stronger land performance over time.
Part of a Larger Focus on Soil Health
This pilot also aligns with a new $500,000 investment in the Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba (SAM) program. Through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, SAM helps farmers adopt practices that protect water, reduce risk and support soil resiliency. These include perennial cover, improved water management and regenerative approaches.
Together, these programs show a clear commitment to soil-first farming. They also highlight the growing interest in long-term land stewardship.
A Practical Tool for Managing Risk
The insurance discount may motivate more farmers to consider forages on acres that rarely perform in an annual rotation. This shift can reduce input costs and create more predictable yields. It can also support better grazing and hay quality.
In addition, perennial forages help build forage security for beef and dairy operations. They also offer more stability in years marked by drought or excess moisture.
Why It Matters
The Forage Advantage pilot is a meaningful step toward recognizing soil-focused farming practices. By supporting perennial forage on marginal acres, the program encourages systems that improve soil structure, strengthen forage production and enhance long-term farm resilience.
For producers planning their 2026 crop year, this pilot may offer a practical way to improve both land health and forage stability.
