Saskatchewan freezes grazing rates for Crown land in 2023

Ranchers who lease Saskatchewan Crown land for grazing got good news Wednesday, when the Ministry of Agriculture announced that rates will be frozen for 2023.

In addition, the ministry added that those producers who have been affected by dry conditions and need to reduce their stocking rates on Crown land will be eligible for a rent reduction of up to 50 per cent.

Across Saskatchewan, the ministry noted, about six million acres of Crown land are leased for grazing.

David Marit, Saskatchewan’s agriculture minister, said many producers are struggling and high rent doesn’t help the issue.

“Saskatchewan’s livestock sector is facing increasing costs of production in addition to successive years of low precipitation in many areas of the province,” Marit said in a statement.

“Keeping this year’s grazing rate at 2022 levels, and implementing reductions for Crown grazing lands hardest hit by drought, will assist producers through the current challenges while supporting the continued stewardship and productivity of the land.”

The rent reduction will apply to lessees who reduce the number of animals grazing Crown land by at least 20 per cent, the ministry said. The rate reduction will match the drop in carrying capacity, ranging from 20 per cent up to a maximum of 50 per cent.

Arnold Balicki, chair of the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, said the change is a big boon for livestock producers.

“We are pleased with today’s announcement, as it is something many of our ranchers have been calling for,” Balicki said in a statement.