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Building A Unified Voice for Agriculture: Agriculture Updates, Supports, and News: August 2026

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Building A Unified Voice for Agriculture: Agriculture Updates, Supports, and News: August 2026

Headlines

New National Report Reinforces Chamber Priorities on Agricultural Risk Management

Agriculture is one of Southeast Alberta's most important economic drivers, supporting producers, processors, transportation companies, equipment suppliers, and countless businesses throughout our region. As the industry faces increasing uncertainty from weather extremes, market volatility, rising input costs, labour challenges, and global trade disruptions, effective risk management has never been more important. 

A newly released report from Farm Management Canada, National Strategy for Education and Communication on Agricultural Risk Management, highlights a challenge that many producers already recognize: it is not enough to simply have risk management programs available. Farmers and ranchers need clear, practical, and trusted information to understand how those tools work and how they fit into everyday business decisions. 

The report concludes that while Canada has developed a wide range of Business Risk Management (BRM) programs and support mechanisms, gaps in education, communication, and coordination are limiting their effectiveness. Producers often struggle to understand available programs, assess their relevance, or integrate them into broader business planning strategies. 

This finding strongly aligns with advocacy priorities already being advanced by the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has consistently called for improvements to Business Risk Management programming, enhanced crop and livestock insurance options, stronger agricultural resilience measures, increased investment in research and innovation, and policies that support long-term competitiveness for agricultural businesses. Read more.

Proposed Development Permit Process for Agricultural Buildings

The County of Newell is considering amendments to its Land Use Bylaw that would require Development Permits for new Agricultural Buildings.

The proposed changes are intended to help producers identify potential issues before construction begins. By reviewing the proposed location of a building in advance, the County can identify concerns such as underground utilities, registered utility easements, road rights-of-way, drainage issues, wetlands, and flood hazard areas that could result in costly delays or relocation after a building has been constructed. The goal is not to create unnecessary red tape or regulate normal farming practices. Instead, the proposed process is designed to help protect producers' investments by identifying potential issues early, when they are easiest and least expensive to address.

Existing legally constructed Agricultural Buildings would not be affected by the proposed changes. Portable Agricultural Structures that meet the bylaw requirements would also continue to be exempt from Development Permit requirements (but not necessarily other permits such as electrical, plumbing, etc…). No decisions have been made. Council is seeking feedback from agricultural producers, landowners, and residents before considering the proposed bylaw amendments. To learn more about the proposed Bylaw, review frequently asked questions, and submit your comments, visit https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/ag-building-development-permit

Would you like to speak with the Planning & Development team? Call at 403-794-2313 or email jacksonm@newellmail.ca.

Improving Alberta's surface rights system

Alberta’s government has established the Surface Rights Advisory Panel to bring together landowners, municipalities, industry and other experts to recommend improvements to Alberta’s surface rights system. Once appointed, the panel will provide advice on improving service delivery, dispute resolution and property rights for landowners, with its recommendations informing the province's work to re-establish the Surface Rights Board and improve the responsiveness and timeliness of the surface rights system.

The Surface Rights Advisory Panel will include representatives from agriculture, landowners, rural municipalities, industry and surface rights advocacy organizations. More information.

New grain marketing year: What history says about pricing opportunities

For Canadian producers, stronger-than-expected prices helped support 2025-26 margins, but elevated input costs, trade uncertainty and market access risks continue to shape profitability expectations for the year ahead.In this outlook by FCC, they examine how historical pricing patterns can help producers make grain marketing decisions amid market uncertainty.

Global supply chains face renewed strain as Strait of Hormuz tensions resurface

The Strait of Hormuz is vital to global shipping and supply chains as it is central to global energy trade, carrying about one-fifth of the world’s oil and roughly one-third of global fertilizer—making it a critical artery for agricultural production and food systems worldwide. Read more here.

Agriculture ministers advance a shared vision for the Next Policy Framework

Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture recently concluded their annual conference in Halifax. As the five-year Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) comes to an end in 2028, Ministers issued the “Halifax Statement”, which outlines the shared vision, principles and key priorities that will guide the development of the Next Policy Framework (2028-2033).

The Halifax Statement recognizes the importance of FPT governments working together to support economic growth and competitiveness while maintaining the various business models that help create a vital agriculture and agri-food sector. Read the media release

Funding, Resources & Programs

Key ways to maximize your AgriInvest account

Check out the next deadline coming up in September and key practices to get the most from your AgriInvest Account. Read more.

FCC Ag Expert Solutions

AgExpert is here to support you through the busiest time of the year with tools designed to help keep your operation on track. Monitor harvest progress with CropPlan+ and simplify expense tracking on the go with the receipt scanning tool in the AgExpert Accounting app. CropPlan+ helps you stay on top of your operation from planning through harvest. During harvest, track actual yields against your crop plan as results come in and see how the season is shaping up. After harvest, compare actual costs and revenue to your original plan with easy-to-read reports that help guide next year's decisions

With AgExpert's Accounting app's new receipt scanning tool, you can automatically capture and sort key receipt details. Simply snap a photo, review the information, and approve. Less manual entry gives you more time to focus on your operation. Get the app on Google Play or the App Store 

Accelerating Agricultural Innovations 2.0

The Accelerating Agricultural Innovations 2.0 funding call is now open. RDAR is inviting proposals for research extension project proposals that help Alberta producers, ranchers and agricultural service providers adopt proven innovations and management practices. Learn more and apply now

FCC Resources

  • Transition looks different for every family, but the FCC planning tool can help you identify where you are in the process and what to do next. Download now
  • Get risk management resources to help you stay prepared for any farm challenges. Download from FCC now
  • Want to better manage your farm's finances? Take FCC's free online course

Ag Safe Safety Toolbox 

Your go-to for quick, easy access to safety tips, tools and training. Be sure to visit the AgSafe Alberta Store and see if there is anything you can use on your farm! You can also view the resources and download and print these ready-to-use AgSafe Alberta Harvest Toolbox Talks!

Visit the Do More Agricultural Foundation’s website to find mental health resources, crisis lines, and other supports. 

Buying or selling a confined feeding operation? - here’s what you need to know

If you are planning to buy or sell a confined feeding operation (CFO) you should consider contacting the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) early in your process. Here’s what you need to know about your rights and obligations under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA).

For the buyer:
Under AOPA, anyone who buys or otherwise acquires a CFO permit must inform the NRCB of the change in ownership. You can contact your nearest NRCB field office to advise them of the change. Doing so does not confirm the status of the permit, though the NRCB might be able to answer questions. In addition, banks and financial institutions often require confirmation of an NRCB permit before providing financing. Before purchasing, you should also check whether the property has any outstanding compliance actions or potential unauthorized construction, as well as make yourself aware of any conditions or requirements specified in the CFO permit.

For the seller:
If you are selling your CFO you may want to consider verifying with the NRCB whether your operation’s permit is still valid.

Older operations:
For example, if your operation existed, or was permitted by the municipality, before AOPA came into effect on January 1, 2002, you may need to request a formal grandfathering determination from the NRCB to confirm the status of your CFO. This process can take several months. Click here to read more about the benefits of a formal grandfathering determination and how to request one from the NRCB. The NRCB is working towards phasing out grandfathering in the legislation in the next 4 to 5 years so now is the time to request your grandfathering determination.

Operations not in use:
If your operation has not been used for some time, the NRCB may have to determine whether the operation’s permit is still valid or if the operation is considered abandoned. See the NRCB’s Operational Policy 2016-3: Abandonment and Permit Cancellations for more information.

 For more information, contact Kevin Seward, Manager, Compliance at 403-331-0637 or kevin.seward@nrcb.ca.

Attracting agricultural workers

In 2022, the Government of Alberta invested $2.5 million in Ag for Life's Agriculture Labour Task Force Grant Program to help producers and processors attract, hire and retain employees. Ag for Life, a charitable organization, will distribute grants to address labour shortages caused by job vacancies that cannot be filled and an aging workforce.

“Alberta’s government is committed to strengthening and growing a resilient and competitive agriculture sector that supports jobs and long-term food security. Ag producers and processors need a stable, skilled workforce and Ag for Life’s Agriculture Labour Task Force Grant Program helps them meet those labour challenges so they can continue producing the food we rely on,” said Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Tara Sawyer. Read the article

AgriMarketing Program: Market Diversification for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

The AgriMarketing Program offers targeted support tailored to specific sector needs. This includes a combined $75 million in contribution funding over 5 fiscal years (2026-2027 to 2030-2031) to promote market diversification, in addition to support already provided under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). The following support encourages greater diversification to respond to market instability in the Canadian agriculture, agri-food and agri-products sector, including fish and seafood:

  • Market Diversification for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
  • Market Diversification for National Industry Associations

Learn more about the program here.

Additional Government & Industry News and Information

Canadian Grain Commission updates

Effective August 1, 2026, the Canadian Grain Commission has updated the Official Grain Grading Guide, including:

  • a new tolerance for total severe midge and penetrated smudge in all grades of amber durum
  • revised tolerances for penetrated smudge in No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 CWAD
  • revisions to definitions and the assessment procedure for darkened and severely darkened kernels for amber durum and smudge and penetrated smudge for all wheat classes
  • updated reference photos of certain grading factors in the wheat chapter
  • the removal of contrasting classes as a grading factor and an updated definition for contrasting colours for red lentils
  • Variety designation list order updates for western barley and western wheat classes 

AI in Canadian agriculture: Present challenges and future prospects

FCC's latest report examines what can be done to unlock AI opportunities, produce scalable returns and strengthen Canadian agriculture's position in the global economy. Read the report

Supporting farmers' mental health

Farm Credit Canada and the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing recently announced a renewed partnership to sustain and expand the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701).

The renewed investment of $1.8 million over three years ($600,000 annually) will allow the program to continue providing tailored, no-cost mental health and crisis support to Canada's farmers, farm families, and agricultural workers. Since launching in February 2025, the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line has connected agricultural workers across Canada with licensed mental health professionals trained through the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program, specialists who understand the unique pressures of farming life. The renewal ensures that this vital service continues uninterrupted.

Read the media release | Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing*
*National Farmers Wellness Network site and help number added to permament "Other Resources" down below.

Case study: How one farm used rotational grazing to address a business challenge

When low financial margins in their beef operation had brothers Arron and Shane Nerbas seeking viable solutions, they turned to a rotational grazing production system. Now, you can almost physically feel the biodiversity in their grazing lands. That biodiversity is something the brothers are quite proud of – not just for its ecological value, but because it makes good business sense. Read more here.

Canadian Beef Research & Knowledge Mobilization Strategy

Developed by the Canadian beef industry, for the Canadian beef industry, this Strategy was led by the BCRC with input from more than 500 producers, researchers and industry partners. It outlines national research and knowledge mobilization priorities to support a productive, sustainable and resilient beef sector, with program-specific summary versions available to help readers quickly explore key priorities. Learn More.

Updated AOPA factsheets for land application and record keeping

If you are spreading manure, compost, digestate, or other organic materials this season, understanding land application and record keeping requirements can help support responsible nutrient management.

The Government of Alberta has updated two factsheets to reflect the recent addition of digestate and other allowable organic materials into the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA). Learn more

Canadian Grain Commission updates

Effective August 1, 2026, the Canadian Grain Commission has updated the Official Grain Grading Guide, including:

  • a new tolerance for total severe midge and penetrated smudge in all grades of amber durum
  • revised tolerances for penetrated smudge in No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 CWAD
  • revisions to definitions and the assessment procedure for darkened and severely darkened kernels for amber durum and smudge and penetrated smudge for all wheat classes
  • updated reference photos of certain grading factors in the wheat chapter
  • the removal of contrasting classes as a grading factor and an updated definition for contrasting colours for red lentils

 Variety designation list order updates for western barley and western wheat classes

4-H Alberta announces organizational restructuring to strengthen member services

4-H Alberta is implementing a refreshed organizational structure designed to strengthen services for members and volunteers, improve consistency across the province and help position the organization for long-term sustainability.

As the needs of 4-H members, families and volunteers continue to evolve, the updated structure will allow the organization to place greater focus on member programming, volunteer development, youth leadership and responsive province-wide support. Learn more

Events, Webinars and Podcasts

Ranching Like a 12yr Old - Virtual | August 19

Grazing Cover Crops: Partnerships in Practice - Virtual - August 20

Virtual Environmental Farm Plans Workshop - August 28

Other Resources

As always, you can always find more agribusiness resources on our website: https://www.southeastalbertachamber.ca/agribusiness-resources/

If you know of someone who may be interested in the work we are doing and might be interested in investing in this work through membership, please feel free to refer them to us. You can also encourage others to subscribe to our agriculture updates through this page. We look forward to continuing our work with you and pushing for our collective priorities on your behalf.

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