Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) is concerned about the effects the controlled release of water along the Assiniboine River will have on farmers. Last week, KAP called for 100 per cent government compensation for all losses of property and income.
KAP is pleased that during a televised address on May 13, Hon. Greg Selinger, Premier of Manitoba, pledged to create a special compensation program for those affected by the controlled release. Premier Selinger noted the program will cover damages, income losses and the cost of recovering the land.
“We’re hoping this program will be comprehensive and that the government keeps in mind the long term impacts the controlled release will have on farm families,” said Doug Chorney, KAP President.
KAP is concerned about all farmers across the province who are experiencing flooding and excess moisture challenges and has asked for excess moisture insurance to be increased from $50 per acre to $70 per acre, and for those farmers who bought coverage up to $65 to see it increased to $85 per acre.
KAP also hopes the government will address the wide reaching effects of the Assiniboine River flooding including the Lake Manitoba situation and the impact on beef producers.
“We’d like to thank the province for recognizing the need for a special program during this flood crisis and ask that the government works in consultation with farm groups on the details,” said Chorney.
KAP stresses that deductibles should not be applied to any flood compensation programs that are offered.
Members of KAP’s management team have been attentive to the flood situation and KAP would like to thank Hon. Stan Struthers, Minister of Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, for hosting daily conference call updates for stakeholders. KAP has brought farmers’ concerns to the Minister and his staff and we will continue to be involved.
