The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture will close new applications to its Irrigation Development Program on April 30, 2025. While applications will still be accepted until May 30, approved projects must be completed and claimed by December 31, 2025.
Introduced in April 2023, the program supports infrastructure development that secures water supplies for land suitable for irrigation. It quickly gained traction with producers and is now fully subscribed. Between April 2023 and March 2025, the province received 202 applications, resulting in the development of over 41,000 acres of irrigated farmland.
The Ministry has confirmed that all projects pre-approved by May 30 will continue to receive funding, provided they are completed and final claims are submitted by year-end. Projects approved before April 30 must adhere to the claim deadlines outlined in their pre-approval letters.
Irrigation is essential for diversifying crops, supporting more livestock, and stabilizing yields by providing consistent moisture. It also plays a key role in strengthening rural economies. The program supports Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan, which set a target of reaching 85,000 irrigated acres by 2030—a goal that is already 95% achieved and expected to be surpassed in 2025.
The Irrigation Development Program is one of several initiatives the province uses to encourage agricultural growth and long-term sustainability.
