Province highlights Animal Health and Biosecurity Program for farmers looking for help affording crucial upgrades

The government of Saskatchewan is highlighting their Animal Health and Biosecurity Program to help farmers know what options are available to them.

The program covers a number of livestock, including beef cattle, bison, cervids, dairy, honey and leaf-cutter bees, as well as poultry, sheep, goats and swine.

Agriculture Program Specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture Jason Falk says the goal is to keep those animals healthy.

"The program helps producers enhance biosecurity and animal welfare, or providing resources such as funding for equipment, technical assessments, and educational support. The goal is to help producers meet industry standards, work towards certifications and adopt innovative and improved practices that protect their herds and contribute to overall farm sustainability."

In order to be a part of the program Flak says that producers need to complete industry-specific training or reach certification threshold, along with having an identification number and being over 18.

Anyone looking to be a part of the program can receive rebates for getting the proper equipment.

"Producers can apply for reimbursement or for eligible items or equipment they purchase. So we're going to use a B-stream as an example. Under the B-stream, it's up to $2500 in funding available for producers who complete the verified beef production plus training. Those who go the extra step to become certified through B+ can receive an additional $12,500 for a total of $15,000 in funding."

There are a number of eligible items for producers to look at, such as surveillance systems and upgraded pens, with that equipment changing with the different species.

For more info on what equipment is eligible and how to be a part of the program, Falk recommends heading online.