The 2021 Canada-British Columbia Flood Recovery Program for Food Security responds to impacts on livestock and crops by providing assistance to help offset costs of returning to production. Information about the program and how to apply can be found on the Ministry website.
An overview of additional financial relief programs and considerations are listed below. As new information is received, this space will be updated.
Commercial Insurance considerations
Agri-Stability
This program is meant to cover margin loss of producers. For supply managed commodities there must be a greater than 30% decline in margin. This is quite a complicated program – will probably not be applicable for most supply managed commodities except for Layers, Broiler Breeder, and Dairy operations that are out of production for prolonged periods.
For those who do qualify, the province has implemented Late Participation in the federal-provincial AgriStability program for 2021. Late participation means B.C. farmers that are not currently enrolled for the 2021 program year can now apply to enrol up until Dec 31, 2022. For more details or how to enrol visit: Agriculture income protection (AgriStability) or call 1-877-343-2767 or Email AgriStability@gov.bc.ca.
Mortgage deferrals
Some banks are offering mortgage deferral plans for their customers within flood zones. Producers are encouraged to talk to their bank for details.
Business Disaster recovery planning
What this program offers: up to $5,000 in business planning services and coaching for individuals from a qualified business consultant, to develop an immediate and long-term recovery plan.
Who is eligible: Business entities including sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, or other associations of persons (including cooperatives) who meet the following eligibility criteria for Primary Agricultural Producers: