Unlocking the Potential of Farmland with the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program
Farmers and ranchers have seized a unique opportunity to undertake beneficial management practices and sustainability in Alberta. The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) received over 400 project submissions in 2024, a successful year for the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.
Did you miss the 2024 application window? Find out what you need to be successful in 2025.
What is RALP?
RALP is designed to bolster the environmental resilience of agricultural landscapes through the accelerated adoption of Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs). These practices are aimed at maximizing the provision of Ecological Goods & Services (EG&S), with a spotlight on increased carbon sequestration and enhanced climate resilience. The program acknowledges that while many BMPs offer immense ecological value, their adoption can be hindered by high upfront costs or limited immediate financial return for producers. To bridge this gap, RALP offers substantial financial support for approved projects, covering up to 100% of eligible expenses.
Eligible Projects and Funding Opportunities
The program casts a wide net in terms of eligibility, covering a range of BMP projects including:
- Pasture Management: Enhancing the management of riparian areas to protect water quality and support aquatic life or implementing rotational grazing practices to sequester carbon and improve nutrient distribution.
- Intercropping and Cover Crop Cocktails: Integrating soil-building pulses and legumes into rotations to reduce nitrogen use and bolster soil health.
- Shelterbelts and Eco-buffers: Establishing natural barriers to protect soil from erosion and improve biodiversity.
For a detailed list of eligible activities and the specific funding available for each, please refer to the comprehensive guide on the Alberta government’s website at https://www.alberta.ca/resilient-agricultural-landscape-program.
Getting Started with RALP
Producers seeking to embark on a journey with RALP can learn more about what the program offers with a simple call or email. A dedicated team of Program Access Liaisons are ready to guide farmers through the application process and to help identify the most beneficial practices for their agricultural operation, ensuring they have all the resources needed for a successful application.
Reach out for application support by calling 1-866-310-RALP or by emailing info@RALP.ca.
Why Choose RALP?
Choosing to participate in RALP is not just an investment in your land, it’s a commitment to the future of agriculture in Alberta. By adopting BMPs with the support of RALP, you’re taking a proactive step towards creating a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agricultural landscape.