Greener Farms, Stronger Future: Climate Fund Open for NL Farmers

Farmers across Newfoundland and Labrador can apply for funding to make their farms more resilient to the effects of climate change. 

Intake Launched 

On June 4th, the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture officially launched its intake for the On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) for farmers who, if eligible, can receive up to $7.5 million in funding for farm projects to address climate change.

The program, funded by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, helps producers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, learn carbon sequestration techniques and create healthier, more productive land. 

What's Covered?

The three BMPs that are covered:

• Nitrogen management– using fertilizer more effectively

• Cover cropping – protecting soil from erosion and improving soil health

• Rotational grazing – giving pastures a rest, which helps livestock and land

These methods have been proven to enhance biodiversity, increase crop yields, and make farms resistant to weather.

Strengthening Agriculture 

“This investment through our On-Farm Climate Action Fund will help ensure farmers in Newfoundland and Labrador continue to produce high-quality products while adapting to the growing impacts of climate change,” said the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “By making it easier to adopt sustainable on-farm management practices, we’re strengthening the agriculture sector and improving efficiency so our farmers can continue to succeed.”

Why Apply?

The concern is real—climate change is making farming less predictable. By signing up for OFCAF, producers can:

- Make their farms more resilient to future climate risks

- Experience lower input costs

- Get expert help in adopting new practices

Forward Thinking

The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, added,

"Through forward-thinking initiatives like the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, Newfoundland and Labrador’s farmers are able to enrich and enhance the province’s farmland, adapt their farms and practices to the impacts of climate change, and continue to increase food sufficiency here at home. I look forward to watching this program and the province’s farms grow." 

On January 28, 2025, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada formally announced funding to 13 recipients across Canada, including the NLFA, which will facilitate the expansion of the On-Farm Climate Action Fund through March 31, 2028. NLFA is an organization that represents and advocates for farmers in Newfoundland and Labrador. OFCAF is part of the Government of Canada's Agricultural Climate Solutions initiative, which falls under the more than $5-billion Natural Climate Solutions Fund, a 10-year (2021-2031) initiative managed by Natural Resources Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

Aligns with NLFA

NLFA President Wayne Simmons said: "This program aligns with NLFA's mission to be the leading force in creating a successful, sustainable and diversified agriculture industry in our province. We are pleased to be able to administer the On-Farm Climate Action Fund for Newfoundland and Labrador and get funding for these initiatives into the hands of our farmers."

How to Apply

Farmers in Newfoundland and Labrador can apply for OFCAF at www.acsnl.ca. The program guide on the website provides information on eligibility, planning the project, and submitting the required forms. The application submission deadline is October 31, 2025, for projects in the current fiscal year from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. All projects will be required to be verified by submitting documents, pictures, and a possible site visit.