Due to incredible demand, applications for the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture (EWP) Program will be closing at 4:30pm on Monday, March 11, 2024. Applications may reopen in 2024/25 depending on available program funds.

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program is designed to
increase BC’s food security through environmental conservation
and improved resiliency for select extreme weather events.

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program invites commercial Agriculture and Aquaculture primary producers in BC to apply for cost-share funding to increase the resiliency of their existing farming infrastructure for extreme weather events.

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture (EWP) Program is an investment program funded by federal, provincial, and territorial governments through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), with $2 million available in 2024/25 to help producers increase on-farm resiliency for select extreme weather events.

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Overview

Approach

Eligibility

Application

Eligibility Details

Resources

Program Goal

To increase the resilience of BC agriculture operations by providing cost-share reimbursements to farm or agriculture businesses to address risks related to wildfire, flooding, and extreme heat.

Program Objective

To reduce farmers’ direct costs for infrastructure required after extreme weather events (flood, wildfire, heat wave)
Increased preparedness of the sector to anticipate, respond to and recover from climate change and extreme weather events.

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Approach

Program Structure

IAF will deliver program funding through four funding streams:

Wildfire Preparedness
Flood Preparedness
Extreme Heat Preparedness
Innovation Projects

Upon submission of an application, all EWP applications will be reviewed first-come, first-served. Project applications are screened and reviewed by IAF. This review involves:

Ensuring application completeness.
Organization/Applicant eligibility check.
Project alignment and eligibility check.

Applications will be considered until all available funding is committed. All decisions regarding application status are final. All applicants will receive a funding decision email from IAF. IAF will complete adjudication 8 weeks after the application submission or resubmission date, followed by decision emails to applicants. In the case of Innovation Projects, funding applications will be reviewed by IAF and may be reviewed by a third-party technical expert to determine eligibility. All adjudication decisions are final.

Eligible Activities Categories	Cost-Share Ratio	Funding Limits
Wildfire Preparedness Note: Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment 100% cost-shared, activity cap of $2,000	40%	$50,000
Flood Preparedness	40%	$50,000
Extreme Heat Preparedness	40%	$50,000
Innovation Projects	40%	$50,000

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Applicants

To be eligible for the program, farmers must:

Be a primary production agriculture business whose primary purpose is the production and sale of agricultural products and must be a BC registered business entity (including sole proprietor, partnership, corporations, cooperatives, Indigenous economic development corporations, and band-owned businesses). Applicants to the program must have farm status and, if involved in raising livestock, a premises ID.
Be a taxable entity (e.g., individual, corporation or trust), limited partnership, commune, cooperative with a GST and business number, or First Nation Band, and
Have their main farmstead in British Columbia and file farm income tax (form T2042 or T1273) under the Income Tax Act in British Columbia.*

* Licensed Aquaculture producers, and Federally licensed Cannabis or Hemp Producers are exempt from having to meet criteria #3. However, Aquaculture operations will have to provide their valid aquaculture license number, while Cannabis or Hemp producers must provide proof of either their standard-cultivators, micro-cultivators, or industrial hemp license as issued by Health Canada under the Cannabis Act or Industrial Hemp Regulations. The personal production of medicinal cannabis is not eligible for this program.

Ineligible Applicants

Landowners not registered as a BC entity
Hobby farms/farms without Farm Status
Silviculture farms/nurseries

Farm and Ranch FireSmart Assessment

Formerly known as FireSmart Farm and Ranch Critical Infrastructure Assessment (CIA)

What is a Farm and Ranch FireSmart Assessment?
The Farm and Ranch FireSmart Assessment is a process that is intended for assessing vulnerabilities of barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use.

How does it work?
A trained and pre-approved FireSmart approved Farm and Ranch assessor will come to the farm/ranch property to conduct the assessment.
The assessment is based on current FireSmart accepted practices. The following areas are assessed for each critical building and structure:

Building
Critical farm structures (utility poles, valve stations, propane tanks, etc.)
Non-combustible zone (0-1.5m from building)
Zone 1 (1.5-10m from building)
Zone 2 (10-30m from building)

The Farm and Ranch assessor will email a copy of the completed report to the producer.

Eligible Activities

Wildfire Preparedness

Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment
Farm building retrofits*
Critical farm structure upgrades*
Addressing vegetation & combustible materials*
Farm structures sprinkler protection project*

*Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment required for practice codes 3601 to 3605. Applicants who have completed a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment/FireSmart Farm & Ranch Critical Infrastructure Assessment within the last five years can directly apply for Projects.

Flood Preparedness

Planning & design of fill pad for farm buildings
Fill pads for farm buildings
Flood-resilient storage for farm inputs
Flood-resilient feed storage
Flood-resilient Apiary Overwintering & Equipment Storage

Extreme Heat Preparedness

Improved barn and indoor aquaculture cooling systems
Extreme heat protection for horticulture crops
Extreme heat protection for outdoor livestock- shade trees
Extreme heat protection for outdoor livestock and seafood farms – infrastructure
Enhanced livestock watering to mitigate heat stress
Cooling systems for outdoor aquaculture operations

Innovation Projects

If your farm or ranch would benefit from a different preparedness activity or technology, not listed above, and can demonstrate how it addresses a need directly related to preparation/mitigation of the impacts of extreme weather events (flood, wildfire, extreme heat), we encourage you to apply to the innovation stream of funding.

Approved applicants will receive 40% cost-share reimbursements for select on-farm Projects up to a maximum of $50,000.

Standards that must be met for a project to be considered for funding:

Must address a demonstrated need related to impacts from extreme weather (wildfire preparedness, flood preparedness, or extreme heat)
Must not be already commonplace activity or technology in the farm or agriculture business for which it is proposed
Must not be affected by any Regulations/authorization processes
Must not be covered by other government programming

Ineligible Activities

In addition to the ineligible items detailed in Eligibility Details, the following expenses are ineligible for reimbursement under the Program:

GST
In-kind costs
Expenses incurred prior to project approval (no retroactive approval permitted) or after the
project completion date
Purchase of typical farm equipment and related accessories or attachments (including
tractors, skid steers and trailers)
Costs of ongoing activities
Maintenance or repair costs unless specified as being eligible in the Appendices
Building of new infrastructure where there was none in place and operating prior to the
extreme weather event in that area
Upgrades to farm buildings that were built during or after 2020 (with one notable exception:
farm buildings that were destroyed by fire or flood where insurance will not cover the
upgrade to an equivalent level of resiliency as the projects in this program)
Financing charges, loan interest payments, bank fees and charges
Maintenance or extended warranties on equipment, electronics, or technology purchases

Stacking of Government Funding

Program policy sets a percentage maximum amount of government funds which can be used towards the total project costs. For the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, this has been set at the total eligible costs of the EWP Project. The Program shall have the authority to deny an application if there is evidence of misrepresentation of pertinent information.

Arm’s Length Transactions

All businesses from which claimed goods or services are purchased must be at arm’s length from the applicant, meaning not related to the applicant, not affiliated with the applicant, or controlled in any way by individuals who are connected by a blood relationship, marriage, common-law partnership, or adoption.

Applications

Important Dates

Applications will be accepted through the IAF Client Portal starting on January 23, 2024, on an ongoing basis until funds are fully committed*.

*Applications for the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture (EWP) Program will be closing at 4:30pm on Monday, March 11, 2024. Applications may reopen in 2024/25 depending on available program funds.

Upon submission, all applications will be reviewed first-come, first-serve. Project applications are screened and reviewed by IAF. This review involves:

Ensuring application completeness.
Organization/Applicant eligibility check.
Project alignment and eligibility check.

Applications will be accepted on the set open date until funding is fully committed*. IAF will complete adjudication and notification of funding within eight weeks of the application submission or resubmission date. In the case of Innovation Projects, funding applications will be reviewed by IAF and may be reviewed by a third-party technical expert to determine eligibility.

Project Start Date: April 1, 2024.

All projects must be completed by or before March 14, 2025.

Application Process

Applicants can apply through the IAF Client Portal. The application process will generally consist of:

Create an Account and Organization Registration

REMINDER: Do not wait to start this process – it can take up to two business days to validate your organization!

Create a personal profile (name and email)

Provide organization information, including:

Name
Contact details
Type of organization
BC ID / CRA numbers
Primary contact
And more

IAF will validate your account, then you will receive an email granting you access to the portal. Please note this can take up to two business days.

Applying to EWP

Select the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program from Funding Opportunities and provide:

Upload copies of relevant documents (e.g., quotes, FireSmart^TM assessments, maps)
Farm Address
Property roll number(s)
Risk Description
Indicate stage of extreme weather preparedness
Project start & end dates
Select categories, project activities and provide estimated total cost

Your application(s) must include verification that you have had discussions with a consultant to determine an appropriate course of action. For example, fill pads require authorizations/ notifications with other agencies; these projects require a two-step process, with the planning & design stage completed before you are eligible to apply for actual on-farm works.

All EWP applications must meet all technical, environmental, permitting, and regulatory standards and/or requirements, as applicable.

IAF staff are available to answer questions regarding eligible activities, costs and/or the application process. IAF may also contact applicants for additional information or clarification to assess or strengthen their application. Applicants can contact ewp@iafbc.ca with any questions about the program or to receive support in developing their application.

Applicants are encouraged to include only activities they are confident will be completed on time and within budget limits.

Need help with IAF’s Client Portal?

We’ve created a number of tutorials and FAQs about the IAF Client Portal to help you navigate this resource successfully.

learn more

Demographic Information

As this program is funded under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, you are required to provide additional demographic information. The demographic information is collected by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and must be done prior to submitting your application. To provide your demographic information:

Start drafting your application in the IAF Client Portal.
Copy your application ID (it will be provided to you at the Demographic data section of the application, or see the top of your application form). You will need to put this ID into the Ministry’s form.
Visit the Ministry’s webpage through the link on the application and complete the form. (Note: this will open a new browser tab).
Once the form is complete, copy the Ministry’s confirmation number and enter it in the application form. It should look something like this AB123456

Note: Demographic information will not be used to assess eligibility for the program.

Review and Adjudication

Upon submission of an application, all EWP applications will be reviewed first-come, first-served. Project applications are screened and reviewed by IAF Staff. This review involves:

Ensuring application completeness.
Organization/Applicant eligibility check.
Project alignment and eligibility check.

IAF will return incomplete applications to applicants via the IAF Client Portal for resubmission with missing information/clarifications requested. Applications will be considered until all available funding is committed. In the case of Innovation Projects, funding applications will be reviewed by IAF and may be reviewed by a third-party technical expert to determine eligibility. All decisions regarding application status are final. All applicants will receive a funding decision email from IAF. IAF will complete adjudication within 8 weeks after submission of a complete application, followed by decision emails to applicants. All adjudication decisions are final.

Notifications & Obligations

Funding Notifications & Contracts

If the project is approved, IAF will inform the applicant of the details of the decision and any associated terms and conditions by email within eight weeks of submission of a complete application.

Funding is application and project-specific and must be used for the approved project and related expenses. Funds are non-transferable.

Retroactive costs will not be considered.

Projects funded in 2024/25 may begin on or after April 1, 2024. If the project is not approved, the applicant will receive a written response from IAF.

Changes to Contracted Projects

If you cannot complete your project or require a change, please inform the IAF Team as soon as possible using the IAF Client Portal.

Funding Acknowledgement

This program is funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. As such, acknowledgement of funding is required when publicly communicating about a project and/or funding. To ensure appropriate acknowledgement, all communications and marketing materials, including public announcements or social media posts, must be pre-approved by the IAF Communications Team. Details on correctly acknowledging funding can be found on the project resource hub. Materials can be submitted via the IAF Client Portal.

Reporting Requirements

Successful applicants must complete a final report prior to receiving funds from the program. This report must be filled out and submitted to IAF along with all invoices for the project to be considered for funding reimbursement. It is important that the final report is submitted on time and with all required information. Expenses will be reimbursed based on the submitted receipts, the approved project budget, and the corresponding cost-share ratio. All reporting will be completed via the IAF Client Portal.

Project Eligibility Details

Wildfire Preparedness

Code	Description	Activities	Requirements
3601	Farm & Ranch FireSmart™ Assessment	Farm & Ranch FireSmart™ Assessment completed by a pre-approved Local FireSmart^TM Representative (LFR) or Wildfire Mitigation Specialist (WMS) Additional resources: FireSmart BC resource page https://firesmartbc.ca/resources/ Farm and Ranch Wildfire Preparedness https://firesmartbc.ca/farm-and-ranch-wildfire-preparedness/
3602	FireSmart™ Farm Building Retrofits Project	Note: You are only eligible for funding for items that are specifically recommended in your operation’s Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment (or a valid FireSmart Critical Infrastructure Assessment). Roof material and construction: Install class A UL/ASTM fire-rated roof covering (e.g., metal, rated hot lay, clay tile or asphalt shingles) Remove unrated roof covering (including wood shakes and wood shingle roofs) Roof covering: Ensure there are no gaps or openings that expose combustible building components; or ensure there are no enclosed spaces where embers could accumulate, lodge, or penetrate Gutter material: If gutters are present, install non-combustible gutters (aluminum, metal or copper); ensure there is no exposed combustible fascia/roof covering above gutters Remove combustible (plastic, vinyl, wood) and/or exposed combustible fascia/roof covering above gutters Cleanliness of roof and gutters: Remove built-up needles, leaves, or other combustible materials Eaves and vents: Ensure all eaves are blocked or closed (i.e., no gaps, holes or unprotected areas to attic or interior of building) Ensure all vents are ASTM rated ember resistant vents OR are covered with 3 mm (1/8”) non- combustible screening, if vents have louvres or flaps, ensure they are operational (self-close when not expelling air) Exterior siding & walls: Upgrade to ignition-resistant (i.e., cement fire board, log) or non-combustible (i.e., stucco, metals, concrete, brick/stone) siding material Ensure there are no gaps or cracks, missing siding, or holes Ensure there is no less than 15 cm of non-combustible vertical ground-to-siding surface Fire-resistant windows or doors (including large doors/garage doors): Install tempered glass in all windows (including windows in doors) Remove non-tempered glass Ensure there are no gaps in or around any doors Ensure the Immediate and Intermediate Zones are FireSmart treated – see Code 3604 Balcony, deck, porch, other building extensions or open foundation: If present (and not open heavy timber, non-combustible or fire-rated construction), ensure the balcony, deck, porch, or other building extension/open foundation are sheathed with fire-resistant/ non-combustible materials, or non-combustible siding, with no gaps or cracks If a balcony, deck, porch or other building extension or open foundation is present, ensure there is a non-combustible surface and no combustible debris underneath Ensure Immediate, Intermediate, and Extended Zones are FireSmart treated and slope set back (if applicable) – see Code 3604 Non-combustible fencing material Replace wood fences with fire resistant fencing within farm home plate or pastures connecting/adjacent to commercial livestock barns Ineligible Items Any works that are not directly related to barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use Residential buildings and structures (e.g., balcony, deck, porch, and other building extensions or open foundations relating to residential buildings) are not eligible Additional Resources FireSmart BC resource page Farm and Ranch Wildfire Preparedness	Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment, completed by a pre-approved FireSmart Professional
3603	FireSmart™ Critical Farm Structures Project	Note: You are only eligible for funding for items that are specifically recommended in your operation’s Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment (or a valid FireSmart Critical Infrastructure Assessment). Valve station/substation/ propane tanks: Ensure a non-combustible surface is continuous under all combustible infrastructure Utility line poles or critical components (weather stations, antennae masts, cellular towers): Ensure poles/ support structures are constructed of non-combustible material (metal or concrete) Ensure non-combustible or combustible poles or support structures are free of petroleum/ accelerant-based coatings, cracks and gaps where embers may accumulate, lodge, or penetrate, and non-combustible surface is continuous under all combustible infrastructure Critical component: Ensure critical components are not constructed of materials that are susceptible to damage from significant radiant or convective heat fluxes (OR if critical components are constructed of materials that are susceptible to damage from significant radiant or convective heat fluxes, ensure the Immediate, Intermediate, and Extended Zones are FireSmart treated – see Code 3604) Ensure critical components are constructed of materials that are not susceptible to damage from embers; OR if critical components are constructed of materials that are susceptible to damage from embers, ensure they are free of any gaps, holes or areas where embers could accumulate, lodge, or penetrate Ineligible Items Any works that are not directly related to barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use Residential buildings and structures (e.g., balcony, deck, porch, and other building extensions or open foundations relating to residential buildings) are not eligible Additional Resources FireSmart BC resource page https://firesmartbc.ca/resources/ Farm and Ranch Wildfire Preparedness https://firesmartbc.ca/farm-and-ranch-wildfire-preparedness/	Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment,, completed by a pre-approved FireSmart Professional
3604	Addressing Vegetation & Combustible Materials	Note: You are only eligible for funding for items that are specifically recommended in your operation’s Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment (or a valid FireSmart Critical Infrastructure Assessment). Immediate Zone (0-1.5 m): In the 0-1.5 m from furthest extent of building or critical structure (includes overhangs or extensions) ensure there is a non-combustible surface, and there are no combustible debris, materials, fences, or plants present; see https://firesmartbc.ca/landscaping-hub/ Intermediate Zone (within 1.5-10 m of building or critical structures): Ensure flammable substances, or other combustible materials (i.e., vehicles, flammable liquids/gases, construction materials, debris etc.) are stored/located more than 10 m from the structure (i.e., a farm building or a critical farm structure), or are stored in approved and ember-resistant storage container Ensure there are either no trees present or healthy deciduous only (i.e., poplar, aspen, birch); if conifers are present, ensure they are at least 3 meters apart from crown-to-crown, and all branches within 2 metres of the ground are removed Ensure there are no twigs, branches, logs and accumulations of tree needles or leaves and other combustible materials; no unmaintained grass (greater than 15 cm in length); no flammable plants; no continuous plants or tall growing plants Ensure Immediate Zone (see above) is FireSmart treated Extended Zone (within 10-30 m of buildings or critical structures): Ensure there are either no trees present or healthy deciduous only (i.e., poplar, aspen, birch); if conifers are present, ensure they are at least 3 meters apart from crown-to-crown and all branches within 2 metres of the ground are removed • Ensure no surface vegetation and combustible materials Ineligible Items Any works that are not directly related to barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use Residential buildings and structures (e.g., balcony, deck, porch, and other building extensions or open foundations relating to residential buildings) are not eligible Additional Resources FireSmart BC resource page https://firesmartbc.ca/resources/ Farm and Ranch Wildfire Preparedness https://firesmartbc.ca/farm-and-ranch-wildfire- preparedness/	Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment, completed by a pre-approved FireSmart Professional
3605	FireSmart Critical Farm Structures Sprinkler Protection Project	Note: You are only eligible for funding for items that are specifically recommended in your operation’s Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment (or a valid FireSmart Critical Infrastructure Assessment). Sprinkler systems: Sprinklers systems are only eligible for funding if the structures intended for sprinkler protection have both a Class A fire-rated roof and have all recommended FireSmart actions in the Immediate Zone (1.5m perimeter) (i.e., Sprinklers are a lower priority/last resort. Sprinklers are likely to be unsuccessful if the vegetation has not been properly removed/managed, fire-rated materials have not been utilized in vulnerable areas, and/or combustibles are still exposed to heat and embers). Improperly installed sprinklers can cause as much damage as the fire they are meant to prevent. Please refer to the Sprinkler Protection factsheet: https://firesmartbc.ca/resource/factsheet-exterior-home-sprinklers-and-structure-protection-units/ Equipment and fittings to connect to sprinkler system to a licensed existing water source: Items that are necessary to connect the sprinkler protection to an existing licensed water source OR unpotable wastewater/rainwater collection reservoir Reliable water delivery: Items to ensure that the system can run unattended for 48 – 72 hours will be considered If a standby generator is proposed, it is MANDATORY that the generator be sized for the intended purpose as well as installed by a certified Journeyman Electrician to ensure that it is wired correctly to prevent feeding electricity into the grid and starting fires or electrocuting someone elsewhere on the grid. Ineligible Items Any works that are not directly related to barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use Residential buildings and structures are not eligible Projects that include generators that have not been sized and committed to installation by a certified Journeyman Electrician will be deemed ineligible Additional Resources FireSmart BC resource page https://firesmartbc.ca/resources/ Farm and Ranch Wildfire Preparedness https://firesmartbc.ca/farm-and-ranch-wildfire- preparedness/	Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment, completed by a pre-approved FireSmart Professional

Flood Preparedness

Code	Description	Activities	Requirements
3704.1	Planning & Design of Fill Pad for Farm Buildings	Consultative services for planning, design and authorizations of fill pad to raise existing farm structures (livestock barns, indoor aquaculture facilities, equipment storages, feed and crop storages, greenhouses) above 200-year flood level Considerations New residences in a floodplain (if allowed) are often required by local government building bylaws to be placed on a fill pad. Your local government staff will be able to tell you if they have such requirements in your area, if any permitting is involved, and what qualifications are needed to design/implement fill pads in your area (they may also have a list of contractors that meet those qualifications). Placing fill in the ALR will require either a ‘Notification’ if it meets specified criteria, or an ‘Application’ if it does not meet those criteria (both require extra time to allow the process to be completed). Depending on the location and size of your proposed fill pad, it may also affect the interests/mandates of other government agencies. For these reasons it is a requirement that any fill projects be planned and designed by a Qualified Person prior to applying for funding for the on-farm work. Ineligible Items Any costs or works related to the acquisition or placement of fill Any permit or application fees Additional Resources ALC Information Bulletin 07	Declaration of pre-existing farm structure
3704.2	Fill Pad for Farm Buildings	Acquisition and placement of fill that meets all applicable standards (i.e., must be acceptable for the specified use in the approved fill plan and free of contamination) Raising of electrical components above 1:200-year flood levels Ineligible Items Projects without design plans and necessary ALC/Local government approval Farm building construction or renovation costs Construction of dikes, berms or other fill activities not associated with raising of farm buildings Additional Resources ALC Information Bulletin 07	Successful completion of activities outlined in 3704.1 are pre-requisites for applying for 3704.2 which include: • Stamped fill design plans • Approval from ALC or confirmation that the project fits criteria outlined in ALC Information Bulletin 07 • Any other permits or authorizations as appropriate
3703	Flood Resilient Storage for Farm Inputs	Increasing flood resilience of on-farm storage of pesticides, non-fuel petroleum products, sanitation products for livestock and aquaculture operations, packaged fertilizer, paints, and veterinary products Relocate/elevate existing storage rooms above flood level Installation of solid metal shelves to restrict absorption of floodwater and spilled chemicals Secured waterproof containers & flood bags Racking of packaged fertilizer (including bags, pails, mini bulks and 1000L totes) above flood level Raising of electrical components above 1:200-year flood levels Ineligible Items Locks, vent, and signage that are legally required and should already be installed Storage facilities for bulk fertilizer products with storage sizes of greater than 1000 kg (granular) or greater than 1000L (liquid) Additional Resources Farm Flood Readiness Toolkit	Declaration of pre-existing on-farm product storage facility
3705	Flood Resilient Feed Storage	Reconfiguration of high value feed storage for intensive confined livestock and aquaculture operations Bin and leg replacement on existing facilities to elevate above flood levels Flood proofing of above ground feed or commodity storage bunkers Raising of electrical components above 1:200-year flood levels Ineligible Items Replacement or retrofitting of in ground or below ground level silage or hay storage facilities (i.e., sheds/barns/bunkers)	Declaration of pre-existing feeding system
3706	Flood Resilient Apiary Overwintering & Equipment Storage	Reconfiguration of beehive, overwintering & equipment storage for apiary operations to elevate above flood levels Installation of solid metal shelves to restrict absorption of floodwater Secured waterproof containers & flood bags Raising of electrical components above 1:200-year flood levels Ineligible Items Replacement or retrofitting of in ground or below ground level storage facilities (i.e., sheds/barns/ bunkers)	Declaration of pre-existing beekeeping system

Extreme Heat Preparedness

Code	Description	Activities	Requirements
3801	Improved Barn and Indoor Aquaculture Cooling Systems	Infrastructure improvements to existing intensive livestock structures to improve animal, poultry, or aquaculture cooling including: Heat pumps and associated ducting or other works. (Includes cooling of air for aeration of recirculating aquaculture tanks and buildings) Input or upgrades of water chillers for aquaculture tanks Improved ventilation including: Tunnel or cross ventilation fans Baffles, vents, or other air movement controls Evaporative cooling systems (misters or soakers) for cooling animals or indoor air Improved building insulation Enhanced temperature monitoring equipment and/ or control sensors/systems are required for all improvements listed above Ineligible Items Any cooling systems for new barn or livestock housing construction unless replacement is because of catastrophic loss from fire or flood Additional Resources Managing Extreme Heat for Dairy, Poultry and Berries – CCAP (bcclimatechangeadaptation.ca) Agricultural Building Ventilation Systems Report Template	Declaration that there is sufficient allocation from water license(s) (surface and/or groundwater) or water purveyor (e.g., irrigation district, municipality, Province) to complete the proposed project (for water related eligible items) Declaration of pre-existing livestock or poultry barns or shelters, or aquaculture recirculation tanks and buildings Verification form of design parameters considered by HVAC vendor/installer
3802	Extreme Heat Protection for Horticultural Crops	Infrastructure improvements to existing fruit, berry, vegetable, and nursery crop production systems including: Overhead canopy evaporative cooling/sprinkler systems Fogging systems Evaporative cooling systems such as cooling walls/towers Shade/heat protection for harvested fruit, berry or vegetable crops Modifications to farm vehicles (such as flatbed trucks or trailers) to add roof and curtain walls for shading for harvested crops Addition of roll tarp reflective covers to farm trailers/wagons or harvest equipment to shade harvested crops Reflective tarps Small investments for shade/heat protection practices for unharvested crops may also be considered for this intake Reusable reflective tarps to cover harvested crop bins, totes or lugs Must have tiedowns or be designed to wrap around bins, totes or lugs and provide a minimum of 70% reflectivity (e.g., reflective tarps are made of laminated fabric with a woven polyester core, which is double coated with bright white on the outer surface and a silvered Mylar® or similar material on the under surface) Additional Resources Fraser Valley – State of Practices & Technologies Assessment for Managing Extreme Heat Impacts (2019)	Declaration that there is sufficient allocation from water license(s) (surface and/or groundwater) or water purveyor (e.g., irrigation district, municipality, Province) to complete the proposed project (for water related eligible items) Declaration of area under horticulture crop production For any Projects involving modifications or improvements to irrigation systems, an updated irrigation design plan. This design plan must be provided by a certified irrigation designer registered with the Irrigation Industry Association of British Columbia (irrigationbc.com)
3803.1	Extreme Heat Protection for Outdoor Livestock (Shade Trees)	Purchase and planting costs new shade trees and tree protection fencing Plants must meet the following: Climatically adapted deciduous species (producers to ensure tree selection or management avoids potential toxicity issues for livestock – see website in Additional Resources section below) Trunk caliper not less than 1.5” (as measured at 6” above root flare). Please Note: Some flexibility on this caliper requirement may be granted to operations with small livestock (i.e., free-range poultry) if requested at the time of application). Trees must be protected with sturdy fencing to prevent livestock browsing or rubbing. Project costs should normally include: Fencing to protect trees Irrigation systems establishment and maintenance of trees can be included if they are not within an irrigated livestock confinement area Ineligible Items Trees that are less than 1.5” measured at 6” from root flare Coniferous or invasive species Tree planting that does not directly benefit commercial livestock animal welfare Additional Resources Invasive Species Council of BC Identify – Invasive Species Council of British Columbia (bcinvasives.ca) BC Vegetative Buffer Guide vegetativebuffers.pdf (gov.bc.ca) Cornell University listing of plants poisonous to livestock	Declaration of existing commercial livestock normally held outdoors in confined area
3803.2	Extreme Heat Protection for Outdoor Livestock (Infrastructure)	Infrastructure improvements to existing outdoor confined livestock areas including: Installation of outdoor misters or soaker systems designed for livestock cooling Construction or modification of loafing sheds to provide shade (must have ability to remove walls or structures must be movable to avoid accumulation of manure) Ineligible Items Shelter for non-commercial livestock	Declaration that there is sufficient allocation from water license(s) (surface and/or groundwater) or water purveyor (e.g., irrigation district, municipality, Province) to complete the proposed project (for water related eligible items) Declaration of existing commercial livestock normally held outdoors in confined area
3804	Enhanced Livestock Watering to Mitigate Heat Stress	Installation of additional watering infrastructure including: Supplying cool fresh water at more points addressing the needs of higher water demand due to heat Increased water access for young stock Systems can include upgrades to supply, treatment, and distribution as well as permanent and mobile waterers Ineligible Items New waterers where there was no pre-existing livestock or poultry drinking water supply Additional Resources 590300-01_bc_livestock_watering_handbook_complete.pdf (gov.bc.ca) Livestock Watering Requirements – Quantity and Quality (gov.bc.ca)	Declaration that there is sufficient allocation from water license(s) (surface and/or groundwater) or water purveyor (e.g., irrigation district, municipality, Province) to complete the proposed project (for water related eligible items) Declare existing livestock or poultry watering systems
3805	Cooling Systems for Outdoor Aquaculture Operations	Infrastructure improvements to existing, licensed aquaculture facilities that have a demonstrated need for supplemental cooling during heat domes including: Overhead canopy or reflective tarps used for shading of existing outdoor aquaculture tank or pond culture systems. Enhanced environmental monitoring equipment and/or control sensors/systems for existing, licensed marine-based aquaculture facilities that are vulnerable to marine heat waves. Monitoring equipment must only be installed on pre-existing infrastructure that has been authorized on the tenure management plan. Equipment may include water quality sensors such as temperature, pH, turbidity and may include other parameters associated with marine heat wave events. This equipment is intended to inform management practices to help protect stocks from the negative impacts associated with marine heat waves. Ineligible Items Any costs that would be considered a normal, ongoing cost of production.	Declaration of pre-existing aquaculture infrastructure and susceptibility to, or have experienced impacts from, extreme heat events. A valid aquaculture license is required, in addition to a copy of their approved tenure management plan, in the case of a marine-based facility.

Innovation Projects

Innovation projects require a greater amount of upfront information from interested applicants, and additional project development work between the applicant and the Program team should be anticipated. Please provide as such detail as possible, including relevant quotes and other supporting materials at the time of application.

To initiate the process, submit your application online via the IAF Client Portal.

Standards that must be met for a project to be considered for funding:

Must address a demonstrated need related to impacts from extreme weather (wildfire preparedness, flood preparedness, or extreme heat)
Must not be already commonplace activity or technology in the farm or agriculture business for which it is proposed
Must not be affected by any Regulations/authorization processes
Must not be covered by other government programming

The eligible and ineligible items, and additional requirements (if any) are “To Be Determined” based on the information supplied in the Application. Funding applications will be reviewed by IAF and may be reviewed by a third-party technical expert to determine eligibility.

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Resources

FAQ

Are Aquaculture producers able to apply to this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-16T13:59:15-08:00

Are Aquaculture producers able to apply to this program?

Yes, Licensed Aquaculture producers are able to apply to this program and must provide their valid aquaculture license number.

Are cannabis and hemp producers able to apply to this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-16T13:59:45-08:00

Are cannabis and hemp producers able to apply to this program?

Yes, Federally licensed Cannabis or Hemp Producers are able to apply to this program and must provide proof of either their standard-cultivators, micro- cultivators, or industrial hemp license as issued by Health Canada under the Cannabis Act or Industrial Hemp Regulations. The personal production of medicinal cannabis is not eligible for this program.

Are preparedness activities related to all extreme weather events (e.g. drought, frost/cold, hail, wind) eligible for financial assistance through this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-31T09:36:19-08:00

Are preparedness activities related to all extreme weather events (e.g. drought, frost/cold, hail, wind) eligible for financial assistance through this program?

No, only extreme weather preparedness costs related to wildfire, flood or extreme heat preparedness are eligible for EWP funding. Preparation for any other extreme weather conditions (e.g. drought, frost/cold, hail, wind) would not be eligible through this program.

Are preparedness activities related to drought or agricultural water infrastructure eligible for funding through this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-31T09:37:04-08:00

Are preparedness activities related to drought or agricultural water infrastructure eligible for funding through this program?

No, drought preparedness and agricultural water infrastructure costs are not eligible for EWP program funding. For financial assistance for drought preparedness, see the Beneficial Management Practices Program.

Can I apply for a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment and Wildfire Preparedness projects in the same application?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:29:27-08:00

Can I apply for a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment and Wildfire Preparedness projects in the same application?

No, the Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment must be applied for and completed prior to applying for other Wildfire Preparedness projects.

Do I have to complete the SCAP Demographic Data form again if I’ve applied for one or more SCAP programs/projects?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-02-27T08:56:31-08:00

Do I have to complete the SCAP Demographic Data form again if I’ve applied for one or more SCAP programs/projects?

No, provided the last time you completed the form was in the same fiscal year, you can input the confirmation number provided by the Ministry into another application form.

If you last completed the form a year or more ago, please complete a new Demographic Data Collection Survey for IAF Applicants.

Do I need to have a valid Environmental Farm Plan to apply to this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-16T13:58:46-08:00

Do I need to have a valid Environmental Farm Plan to apply to this program?

No, an EFP is not required to apply to this program.

Do I need to have Farm Status to apply to this program?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-16T13:58:16-08:00

Do I need to have Farm Status to apply to this program?

Yes, applicants to this program must have Farm Status.

How does a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment work?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:28:47-08:00

How does a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment work?

A trained and pre-approved FireSmart approved Farm and Ranch assessor will come to the farm/ranch property to conduct the assessment.

The assessment is based on current FireSmart accepted practices. The following areas are assessed for each critical building and structure:

Building
Critical farm structures (utility poles, valve stations, propane tanks, etc)
Non-combustible zone (0-1.5m from building)
Zone 1 (1.5-10m from building)
Zone 2 (10-30m from building)

The Farm and Ranch assessor will email a copy of the completed report to the producer.

How long are Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessments valid for? Do they expire?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:30:35-08:00

How long are Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessments valid for? Do they expire?

Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessments are valid for five years.

I have already completed a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment. Can I apply directly for project funding?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:31:21-08:00

I have already completed a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment. Can I apply directly for project funding?

Yes, you can apply directly to the Wildfire Preparedness category if you have completed a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment within the last 5 years.

What is a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:33:34-08:00

What is a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment?

The Farm and Ranch FireSmart Assessment is a process that is intended for assessing vulnerabilities of barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use.

What is the difference between a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment and a FireSmart Farm & Ranch Critical Infrastructure Assessment?Elizabeth Kaplan2024-01-19T13:32:33-08:00

What is the difference between a Farm & Ranch FireSmart Assessment and a FireSmart Farm & Ranch Critical Infrastructure Assessment?

There is no difference, one is just an updated name. The Farm and Ranch FireSmart Assessment (formerly known as FireSmart Farm and Ranch Critical Infrastructure Assessment) is a process that is intended for assessing vulnerabilities of barns, buildings, and structures that are primarily for farm use.

EWP Program Guide

Download the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture (EWP) Program Guide.

download

FireSmart BC Farm & Ranch Wildfire Preparedness

Learn more about farm and ranch wildfire preparedness on FireSmart BC’s webpage.

visit firesmart BC

Local FireSmart Representatives & Wildfire Mitigation Specialists

See a full list of pre-approved Local FireSmart Representatives (LFR) or Wildfire Mitigation Specialists (WMS)

view the list

2023 EWP Participants

If you have an approved project in the 2023 EWP program, please visit the BC government webpage for reimbursement or for program questions.

email 2023 ewp facilitator

Have an Active Project?

Please visit the program’s Project Resource Hub for more information.

visit

Have a question?

We’re here to help! Send us an email.

Funding for this program has been provided by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a $3.5-billion, 5-year agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector.

Extreme Weather Preparedness

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program is designed to increase BC’s food security through environmental conservation and improved resiliency for select extreme weather events.

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The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program is designed to
increase BC’s food security through environmental conservation
and improved resiliency for select extreme weather events.