The Governments of Canada and Manitoba are rolling out a new pilot designed to help farmers improve marginal land while lowering risk. Beginning in the 2026 crop year, the Forage Advantage pilot will offer a 15% discount on Forage Establishment Insurance premiums for Manitoba farmers who seed perennial forage on marginal acres.
Once the forage is established, producers may also qualify for premium discounts on Basic or Select Hay Insurance or Forage Seed Insurance through the MASC AgriInsurance program. These incentives are aimed at encouraging the transition of low-producing acres into long-term forage systems.
Stronger Forage Base for Beef Producers
Marginal land—often affected by salinity, erosion, poor soil structure, or excess moisture—rarely performs well in annual cropping. Perennial forages handle these conditions more effectively and offer several benefits, including:
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Better soil structure and organic matter
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Reduced erosion and runoff
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Lower weed and disease pressure
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Improved carbon sequestration
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More stable forage yields
For beef producers, these acres can become dependable sources of hay or grazing, especially as weather extremes continue to impact annual cropping.
Part of a Broader Sustainability Push
The pilot is supported by a $500,000 increase to the Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba (SAM) program. This funding encourages practices such as perennial cover, improved water management and regenerative soil practices under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
Together, these programs promote farming systems that build soil resilience and long-term productivity.
Why It Matters for Beef Operations
Forage is central to every beef operation, and stability in forage supply is becoming more important each year. This pilot gives producers another tool to strengthen marginal acres, reduce risk and improve forage capacity heading into 2026.
