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Develop Reliable Water Sources Through Programming

By Karen Smith, PAg, Agriculture Programs Specialist, Tisdale

February 2026

Secure, reliable water sources are an important and sometimes overlooked aspect of farming operations. Sustainable water, combined with good infrastructure, can help ease stress during critical times of the year. For grain producers, having a consistent water source to use for spraying ensures crop protection products work effectively and can reduce the risk of contamination. If a producer has an unreliable water source or needs new water infrastructure, the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program may be an option.

The Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program is designed to help producers develop secure water sources for agricultural purposes. The program offers a 50 per cent cost-share rebate for eligible projects up to a maximum of $75,000. This funding can go towards newly developed dugouts, wells and pipelines. Supporting infrastructure such as power, pumps, hydrants and water storage tanks may also be eligible if submitted along with a new water development project.

Under the program, water projects designed and developed for crop spraying are eligible. Producers looking to develop new dugouts or wells for crop spraying need to consider aspects such as water storage. These projects should be able to efficiently pump water from the source to a water tank for spraying in a reasonable time frame.

Freshly dug dugout filled with water in front of a treeline
Freshly dug dugout filled with water in front of
a treeline
Good water quality is also an important aspect to consider as it can directly impact the effectiveness of crop protection products. Poor water quality can reduce the efficacy of an already costly pesticide application. If water testing shows issues that cannot be improved with treatments, alternative water sources are the only option. Developing a new water source ensures a reliable supply and helps you get the most out of each pesticide application. Crops extension specialists are located across the province and can support and answer questions if producers have concerns about water quality for crop spraying purposes.

The program also covers water development for other agricultural activities like livestock watering and intensive horticulture, making it versatile for mixed operations. Producers who are interested in developing water projects are encouraged to discuss their project with an agriculture programs specialist beforehand. They can screen potential projects for additional permits and discuss eligibility. If you are interested in learning more about this program or applying for funding, please contact your local agriculture programs specialist or the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

The Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program is funded at a rate of 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year (April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2028), $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments.

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