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Cover Cropping

On-Farm Climate Action Fund

Accepting Applications
For farmers who want to undertake a new practiceA new practice is a practice that has not been previously implemented by the applicant on the acres included in the application. For example, if you have never used cover crops on a field and wish to plant cover crops for the first time.of cover cropping, where the planted cover crop will be left undisturbed over the winter (i.e., the crop cannot be chemically or physically terminated in the fall or winter). A new practice is a practice that has not been previously implemented by the applicant on the acres being applied for and can include planting cover crops to be left over-winter either for the first-time or where they have previously been terminated or harvested in the fall.

If a cover crop being applied for is to be harvested or grazed, a minimum of 6 inches of growth must be left undisturbed over winter (November to March). Approved projects must result in a planted cover crop in 2024.
IntakeIntake DatesEligible Project Start Date (Invoice Date)Eligible Project Completion DateClaim DeadlinePrevious Intake Guide
1August 03, 2022 - August 17, 2022February 15, 2022February 15, 2023February 15, 2023
2January 04, 2023 - January 18, 2023January 01, 2023January 31, 2024January 31, 2024
3February 13, 2024, 9AM ET – February 27, 2024, 5PM ETJanuary 01, 2024January 31, 2025January 31, 2025
View
4Intake opens: August 1, 2024, 9AM ET

The intake will close when the available funding has been fully allocated.		April 1, 2024January 31, 2025January 31, 2025

Intake

Intake Dates

Eligible Project Start Date (Invoice Date)

Eligible Project Completion Date

Claim Deadline

1

August 03, 2022 - August 17, 2022

February 15, 2022

February 15, 2023

February 15, 2023

2

January 04, 2023 - January 18, 2023

January 01, 2023

January 31, 2024

January 31, 2024

3

February 13, 2024, 9AM ET – February 27, 2024, 5PM ET

January 01, 2024

January 31, 2025

January 31, 2025

Eligible project costs must be incurred, invoiced, and paid for by the approved farm business within the eligible project start and completion dates for the application intake a project is approved in. Costs incurred, invoiced and/or paid for outside of these dates will not be eligible for cost-share. For costs to be supported, the practice must be implemented before a claim can be submitted.

Approved applicants must also participate in a Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE)KSEs support learning and adoption of BMPs specific to addressing climate change challenges in Ontario. A KSE is both a learning and networking opportunity for farmers. For more information about KSEs, see the section below on Required Participation in Knowledge Sharing Events before their project can be considered complete.

65% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum cost-share payment of $20,000 per project

PROJECT CATEGORY DETAILS

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    Eligible farm businesses must be actively farming or own actively farmed land in Ontario, as demonstrated by:
    • A valid farm business registration number (FBRN)For information on registering a farm business and/or a religious exemption, visit Overview (agricorp.com).
OR
    • A Religious Exemption Letter provided by the OMAFRA Appeal Tribunal (include with application submission)
OR OR
    • 25 acres of land or more, assessed as ‘Farm’, as indicated by the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill in the name of the farm business (include with application submission)
    • OR
      • An income exemption from the Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program in the name of the farm business (include with application submission)
    Applicants must also have a valid Premises Identification (PID)For information about the Provincial Premises Registry, what you need to register a premises, or how and when to update your PID, visit About the Provincial Premises Registry · REGISTRY (ontariopid.com) Number for the farm property where the proposed project will be completed. PID Numbers must be kept up to date. To update or obtain a PID Number, visit www.ontariopid.com or call 1-888-247-4999.
  • Qualified, third-party consultant (e.g., CCA, P.Ag.) fees to develop a cover crop plan. A copy of the completed plan must be included with the claim submission
  • Costs for implementing a cover cropping practice that is new to the acres being applied for. To be eligible, the crop cannot be chemically or physically terminated in the fall or winter. A practice that is new to the acres being applied for can include:
    • Planting cover crops to be left over-winter either for the first time or
    • Planting cover crops to be left over-winter where they have previously been terminated in the fall
    Approved projects must result in a cover crop planted in 2024.
      Eligible costs may include:
    • Seed costs (must be purchased from a supplier who is at arm’s length (e.g., unrelated) to the farm business)
    • Costs of planting, which may include:
      • Custom planting costs
      • Rental of equipment for planting
      • Purchase of equipment for planting, including broadcast and air seeders, no-till seeders, components for autonomous seeding
  • Any cost not set out as an Eligible Activity and Cost and not specifically required for the execution of a projectIf you are uncertain about the eligibility of a project or cost, contact OSCIA before applying at OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org. (e.g., tillage and harvesting equipment, tires, fencing, commodity carts)
  • Costs where the proposed practice is not a new practice (i.e., the proposed practice has been previously used by the applicant on the acres included in the application)
  • Costs where the cover crop is to be harvested in the next growing season intended for market
  • Costs for triticale as a single species, alfalfa, wheat, canola, or any invasive species
  • Costs where the cover crop will not be left undisturbed over winter
  • Costs where the cover crop will be harvested or grazed, leaving less than 6 inches of growth over winter (November to March)
  • Costs for establishing perennial covers.
  • Lift kits to convert low clearance equipment to high clearance
  • Costs of fertilizer and herbicide products
  • Consulting services not related to a cover crop plan, or a cover crop plan not prepared by a qualified consultant
  • Costs related to mechanical or chemical termination of the cover crop (e.g., roller crimpers)
  • Fertilizer, organic amendments, and crop protection costs
  • Costs for rejuvenation of existing forages, pastures, or hay land
  • Invoices not issued in the applicant’s name
  • GPS components related solely to a guidance system (e.g., autosteer systems)
  • Extended warranties, taxes, legal fees, financing charges, loan interest payments, bank fees
  • In-kind contributions of labour and farm equipment
  • Materials or products produced by the applicant’s farm business (e.g., seed)
  • Materials or services purchased outside the eligible invoice dates
  • Typical farm equipment (e.g., tractors, skid steers, combines, livestock trailers, strip tillers, commodity carts, etc.) and related accessories or attachments unless specified as an Eligible Activity and Cost
  • Any cost purchased from a supplier who is not at arm’s length from the applicant (i.e., businesses owned the same individual(s), or by siblings or parents, through blood or marriage)
Cost-share funding is available under the OFCAF at 65% of approved, eligible costs.  A farm business can access a maximum of $75,000 in cost-share for all approved applications submitted to all project categories under the OFCAF*, from February 2022 until March 31, 2025.   

Cover Cropping has a maximum cost-share amount per project of:

65% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum cost-share payment of $20,000 per project

To be eligible to receive a cost-share funding allocation, the practice must be implemented on new acres before the Project Completion Date and Claim Deadline.

*This includes any funding under the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, delivered by any organization across Canada (e.g., in Ontario, funding delivered by OSCIA and by Ecocert)
    OFCAF provides a high level of cost-share funding to support implementation of targeted BMPs with a goal of encouraging successful, long-term adoption. Access to knowledge and resources are key components to ensure success. Applicants must participate in an OSCIA-recognized Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE) within the eligible Project Start and Completion dates for their approved OFCAF application, and before submitting a claim for cost-share. Successful applicants must participate in a minimum of one (1) KSE for each approved project that aligns with the project’s category.
    KSEs support learning and adoption of BMPs specific to addressing climate change challenges in Ontario (e.g., carbon sequestration and reducing GHG emissions). A KSE is both a learning and networking opportunity, where farmers can benefit from:
  • Seeing the latest applied research
  • Hearing first-hand experiences from other farmers and industry experts
  • Gaining access to information networks and resources
    A KSE can be a new or existing demonstration event, webinar, workshop, or conference, and may be delivered by OSCIA or by other agricultural organizations or service providers. Costs associated with attending a KSE (e.g., registration, mileage, travel, etc.) are not eligible for cost-share.
Applications are only accepted during application intakes. Be sure to review the program guide in entirety – only eligible and complete applications will be considered. Make sure the following is included with your application submission:
  • An FBRN or documentation in the name of the farm business, supporting an exemption or current MPAC Assessment
  • Valid and up to date Premises ID Number
  • Documentation required to be submitted with the application (see Documentation Required with the Application); this may include site sketches, letters of support and/or supporting plans
  • Digital site map(s) based on a satellite image (e.g., using Google Maps or AgMaps) of all field(s) included in the application. The site map(s) must show the precise location(s) (address/GPS coordinates) and total area (acres) of the project.

    For an example of a site sketch, click here.

    A site sketch is not required if applying only for a cover crop plan.
    Hand drawn sketches will not be accepted – if you need help using GoogleMaps or AgMaps, please contact your local OSCIA Field Staff for free assistance. Click here for contact information.
  • If an FBRN has not been provided, you must provide documentation in the name of the applicant, to support an eligible FBRN exemption, income exemption or the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill.
The Enrolment and Application Form and all required documentation can be submitted electronically through the OSCIA Portal:

APPLY NOW

If the intake is not currently accepting applications, you may still visit osciaportal.org to create a user account, enrol your farm business, and be ready for upcoming opportunities.
  • If the applicant initiates the project before receiving final approval from OSCIA, they do so at the risk of forfeiting the cost-share if all terms and conditions are not satisfied.
  • OSCIA issues payments after projects have been completed and all required claim documentation is received. The project must be paid for in full by the applicant and the approved practice(s) must be implemented on new acres prior to cost-share being issued.
  • All invoices for the approved project must comply with the eligible invoice dates outlined in a letter of approval issued by OSCIA for the proposed project. OSCIA cannot issue cost-share payments for incomplete or partially complete projects.
  • Applicants are responsible for securing all necessary approvals and permits for the proposed project before starting and complying with all applicable municipal bylaws and provincial or federal regulations. OSCIA may require copies of permits obtained for some projects before issuing cost-share payments.
  • OSCIA reserves the right to require additional documentation and ultimately accept or reject submitted project invoices and proof of payment for cost-share consideration.
  • Stacking of OFCAF cost-share funding from one or more farm business and/or one or more sources of OFCAF funding, towards the same project is not permitted.
  • Stacking of OFCAF cost-share funding with other programs outside of OFCAF up to 100% of the project cost, is permitted if the other program(s) allow stacking and at least 15% of the project costs come from non-government sources. All funding for a project from off-farm sources, excluding financing, must be listed on the claim form for an approved project.
  • A cost-share allocation is based on the eligible project costs outlined on the approved Application Form. Accurate estimates to the best of the applicant’s ability must be reflected in the total project cost submitted on the Application Form and quotes are recommended to inform proposed project costs. If final project costs exceed the original estimate or the scope of the project changes, there is no obligation by OSCIA to extend cost-share beyond the original allocation and/or project scope.
  • All goods and services must be purchased from an entity that is at arm’s length from the farm business. An entity is considered arm’s length if they are not related, not affiliated persons or otherwise controlled by another member or members. Parent/child and siblings, through blood or marriage, or businesses owned by the same individual(s) are not considered arm’s length. Refer to Section 251 of the Income Tax Act (Canada) for the additional detail on determining arm’s length relationships.
  • Any GHG emission reductions arising from an approved project between February 15, 2022, and March 31, 2025, shall not be used by the farmer to apply for any existing or future federal or provincial offset credit programs.
  • Information presented is the best available at the time of publishing. Check with OSCIA for applicable updates. Material is subject to change without notice as the cost-share program evolves.
  • Normal operating costs associated with conducting or expanding a business’s current operations
  • Any cost that is eligible for a rebate, credit, or refund (e.g., a refundable portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax)
  • Gifts and incentives
  • Equipment or equipment customizations that do not support an increase in soil carbon or a decrease in nitrogen loss
  • Costs related to activities that directly influence or lobby any level of government
  • Costs of basic research, ongoing activities, normal commercial expansion costs, and annual services fees of any type
  • Lease of land, buildings, and facilities, or new building construction
  • Costs of training and skills development that fulfill any academic requirements towards completion of a professional certificate, diploma, or degree program
  • Costs of sponsorship for conferences and learning events or initiatives
  • Costs of travel, hospitality, meals, and/or accommodations
  • Permits and approvals
  • Purchase or sale of land, buildings or facilities, and associated taxes or fees (e.g., land transfer tax)
  • Tile drainage systems, crop storage facilities (e.g., grain bins, seed storage), TMR mixers, feed pushers and automated feeding systems
  • Mentoring or coaching services that do not support the development of a written plan or technical assessment
  • Multi-use items (e.g., items that can reach beyond the scope of the project such as computers, printers, hand or power tools and attachments, etc.)
If an application is approved for a cost-share allocation, written confirmation will be provided from OSCIA by email (or by post, if no email address is provided). This approval letter will confirm:
  • Any costs from the application that were deemed ineligible
  • Eligible invoice dates, project completion and claim submission deadlines
  • What is needed with the claim submission
  • Instructions on how to verify participation in an eligible KSE
  • Links to the necessary documents (e.g., Claim Form, Electronic Funds Transfer Form, Final Claim Questionnaire, etc.)
  • Information on how to submit your claim
Each project must be complete, fully paid for, the practice implemented on new acres, and an eligible KSE completed before a claim is submitted.

As part of an eligible project, every claimed cost must be supported by an invoice in the name of the applicant farm business and one of the following proofs of payment:
  • Copy of front and back of cancelled cheque
  • Electronic image of processed cheque
  • Statement from banking institution indicating to whom the processed cheque was written, or electronic payment made, and for what amount
  • Credit card or debit card receipt clearly identifying amount and to whom the payment was made. Credit card or debit card numbers and other information, including costs that are unrelated to the project, should be blacked out.
Cash payments for project costs are strongly discouraged, as they may not meet requirements for proof of payment. If proof of payment is not provided, OSCIA cannot support the cost. OSCIA may request any additional information from the applicant that OSCIA deems necessary (e.g., copies of any audit reports, plans or permits obtained by the applicant in conducting the project) to support their claim.

Cost-share payments are made by electronic funds transfer (EFT) in the name of the legal farm business. All cost-share funding is considered taxable income to the farm business. OSCIA will issue a tax form (AGR-1) and report the amount paid to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA); this is why an applicant’s Social Insurance Number (SIN) is collected if the applicant does not have a CRA Business Number.
    Eligible farm businesses must be actively farming or own actively farmed land in Ontario, as demonstrated by:
    • A valid farm business registration number (FBRN)For information on registering a farm business and/or a religious exemption, visit Overview (agricorp.com).
OR
    • A Religious Exemption Letter provided by the OMAFRA Appeal Tribunal (include with application submission)
OR OR
    • 25 acres of land or more, assessed as ‘Farm’, as indicated by the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill in the name of the farm business (include with application submission)
    • OR
      • An income exemption from the Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program in the name of the farm business (include with application submission)
    Applicants must also have a valid Premises Identification (PID)For information about the Provincial Premises Registry, what you need to register a premises, or how and when to update your PID, visit About the Provincial Premises Registry · REGISTRY (ontariopid.com) Number for the farm property where the proposed project will be completed. PID Numbers must be kept up to date. To update or obtain a PID Number, visit www.ontariopid.com or call 1-888-247-4999.
  • Qualified, third-party consultant (e.g., CCA, P.Ag.) fees to develop a cover crop plan. A copy of the completed plan must be included with the claim submission
  • Costs for implementing a cover cropping practice that is new to the acres being applied for. To be eligible, the crop cannot be chemically or physically terminated in the fall or winter. A practice that is new to the acres being applied for can include:
    • Planting cover crops to be left over-winter either for the first time or
    • Planting cover crops to be left over-winter where they have previously been terminated in the fall
    Approved projects must result in a cover crop planted in 2024.
      Eligible costs may include:
    • Seed costs (must be purchased from a supplier who is at arm’s length (e.g., unrelated) to the farm business)
    • Costs of planting, which may include:
      • Custom planting costs
      • Rental of equipment for planting
      • Purchase of equipment for planting, including broadcast and air seeders, no-till seeders, components for autonomous seeding
  • Any cost not set out as an Eligible Activity and Cost and not specifically required for the execution of a projectIf you are uncertain about the eligibility of a project or cost, contact OSCIA before applying at OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org. (e.g., tillage and harvesting equipment, tires, fencing, commodity carts)
  • Costs where the proposed practice is not a new practice (i.e., the proposed practice has been previously used by the applicant on the acres included in the application)
  • Costs where the cover crop is to be harvested in the next growing season intended for market
  • Costs for triticale as a single species, alfalfa, wheat, canola, or any invasive species
  • Costs where the cover crop will not be left undisturbed over winter
  • Costs where the cover crop will be harvested or grazed, leaving less than 6 inches of growth over winter (November to March)
  • Costs for establishing perennial covers.
  • Lift kits to convert low clearance equipment to high clearance
  • Costs of fertilizer and herbicide products
  • Consulting services not related to a cover crop plan, or a cover crop plan not prepared by a qualified consultant
  • Costs related to mechanical or chemical termination of the cover crop (e.g., roller crimpers)
  • Fertilizer, organic amendments, and crop protection costs
  • Costs for rejuvenation of existing forages, pastures, or hay land
  • Invoices not issued in the applicant’s name
  • GPS components related solely to a guidance system (e.g., autosteer systems)
  • Extended warranties, taxes, legal fees, financing charges, loan interest payments, bank fees
  • In-kind contributions of labour and farm equipment
  • Materials or products produced by the applicant’s farm business (e.g., seed)
  • Materials or services purchased outside the eligible invoice dates
  • Typical farm equipment (e.g., tractors, skid steers, combines, livestock trailers, strip tillers, commodity carts, etc.) and related accessories or attachments unless specified as an Eligible Activity and Cost
  • Any cost purchased from a supplier who is not at arm’s length from the applicant (i.e., businesses owned the same individual(s), or by siblings or parents, through blood or marriage)
Cost-share funding is available under the OFCAF at 65% of approved, eligible costs.  A farm business can access a maximum of $75,000 in cost-share for all approved applications submitted to all project categories under the OFCAF*, from February 2022 until March 31, 2025.   

Cover Cropping has a maximum cost-share amount per project of:

65% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum cost-share payment of $20,000 per project

To be eligible to receive a cost-share funding allocation, the practice must be implemented on new acres before the Project Completion Date and Claim Deadline.

*This includes any funding under the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, delivered by any organization across Canada (e.g., in Ontario, funding delivered by OSCIA and by Ecocert)
Applications are only accepted during application intakes. Be sure to review the program guide in entirety – only eligible and complete applications will be considered. Make sure the following is included with your application submission:
  • An FBRN or documentation in the name of the farm business, supporting an exemption or current MPAC Assessment
  • Valid and up to date Premises ID Number
  • Documentation required to be submitted with the application (see Documentation Required with the Application); this may include site sketches, letters of support and/or supporting plans
  • Digital site map(s) based on a satellite image (e.g., using Google Maps or AgMaps) of all field(s) included in the application. The site map(s) must show the precise location(s) (address/GPS coordinates) and total area (acres) of the project.

    For an example of a site sketch, click here.

    A site sketch is not required if applying only for a cover crop plan.
    Hand drawn sketches will not be accepted – if you need help using GoogleMaps or AgMaps, please contact your local OSCIA Field Staff for free assistance. Click here for contact information.
  • If an FBRN has not been provided, you must provide documentation in the name of the applicant, to support an eligible FBRN exemption, income exemption or the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill.
    OFCAF provides a high level of cost-share funding to support implementation of targeted BMPs with a goal of encouraging successful, long-term adoption. Access to knowledge and resources are key components to ensure success. Applicants must participate in an OSCIA-recognized Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE) within the eligible Project Start and Completion dates for their approved OFCAF application, and before submitting a claim for cost-share. Successful applicants must participate in a minimum of one (1) KSE for each approved project that aligns with the project’s category.
    KSEs support learning and adoption of BMPs specific to addressing climate change challenges in Ontario (e.g., carbon sequestration and reducing GHG emissions). A KSE is both a learning and networking opportunity, where farmers can benefit from:
  • Seeing the latest applied research
  • Hearing first-hand experiences from other farmers and industry experts
  • Gaining access to information networks and resources
    A KSE can be a new or existing demonstration event, webinar, workshop, or conference, and may be delivered by OSCIA or by other agricultural organizations or service providers. Costs associated with attending a KSE (e.g., registration, mileage, travel, etc.) are not eligible for cost-share.
The Enrolment and Application Form and all required documentation can be submitted electronically through the OSCIA Portal:

APPLY NOW

If the intake is not currently accepting applications, you may still visit osciaportal.org to create a user account, enrol your farm business, and be ready for upcoming opportunities.
  • If the applicant initiates the project before receiving final approval from OSCIA, they do so at the risk of forfeiting the cost-share if all terms and conditions are not satisfied.
  • OSCIA issues payments after projects have been completed and all required claim documentation is received. The project must be paid for in full by the applicant and the approved practice(s) must be implemented on new acres prior to cost-share being issued.
  • All invoices for the approved project must comply with the eligible invoice dates outlined in a letter of approval issued by OSCIA for the proposed project. OSCIA cannot issue cost-share payments for incomplete or partially complete projects.
  • Applicants are responsible for securing all necessary approvals and permits for the proposed project before starting and complying with all applicable municipal bylaws and provincial or federal regulations. OSCIA may require copies of permits obtained for some projects before issuing cost-share payments.
  • OSCIA reserves the right to require additional documentation and ultimately accept or reject submitted project invoices and proof of payment for cost-share consideration.
  • Stacking of OFCAF cost-share funding from one or more farm business and/or one or more sources of OFCAF funding, towards the same project is not permitted.
  • Stacking of OFCAF cost-share funding with other programs outside of OFCAF up to 100% of the project cost, is permitted if the other program(s) allow stacking and at least 15% of the project costs come from non-government sources. All funding for a project from off-farm sources, excluding financing, must be listed on the claim form for an approved project.
  • A cost-share allocation is based on the eligible project costs outlined on the approved Application Form. Accurate estimates to the best of the applicant’s ability must be reflected in the total project cost submitted on the Application Form and quotes are recommended to inform proposed project costs. If final project costs exceed the original estimate or the scope of the project changes, there is no obligation by OSCIA to extend cost-share beyond the original allocation and/or project scope.
  • All goods and services must be purchased from an entity that is at arm’s length from the farm business. An entity is considered arm’s length if they are not related, not affiliated persons or otherwise controlled by another member or members. Parent/child and siblings, through blood or marriage, or businesses owned by the same individual(s) are not considered arm’s length. Refer to Section 251 of the Income Tax Act (Canada) for the additional detail on determining arm’s length relationships.
  • Any GHG emission reductions arising from an approved project between February 15, 2022, and March 31, 2025, shall not be used by the farmer to apply for any existing or future federal or provincial offset credit programs.
  • Information presented is the best available at the time of publishing. Check with OSCIA for applicable updates. Material is subject to change without notice as the cost-share program evolves.
  • Normal operating costs associated with conducting or expanding a business’s current operations
  • Any cost that is eligible for a rebate, credit, or refund (e.g., a refundable portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax)
  • Gifts and incentives
  • Equipment or equipment customizations that do not support an increase in soil carbon or a decrease in nitrogen loss
  • Costs related to activities that directly influence or lobby any level of government
  • Costs of basic research, ongoing activities, normal commercial expansion costs, and annual services fees of any type
  • Lease of land, buildings, and facilities, or new building construction
  • Costs of training and skills development that fulfill any academic requirements towards completion of a professional certificate, diploma, or degree program
  • Costs of sponsorship for conferences and learning events or initiatives
  • Costs of travel, hospitality, meals, and/or accommodations
  • Permits and approvals
  • Purchase or sale of land, buildings or facilities, and associated taxes or fees (e.g., land transfer tax)
  • Tile drainage systems, crop storage facilities (e.g., grain bins, seed storage), TMR mixers, feed pushers and automated feeding systems
  • Mentoring or coaching services that do not support the development of a written plan or technical assessment
  • Multi-use items (e.g., items that can reach beyond the scope of the project such as computers, printers, hand or power tools and attachments, etc.)
If an application is approved for a cost-share allocation, written confirmation will be provided from OSCIA by email (or by post, if no email address is provided). This approval letter will confirm:
  • Any costs from the application that were deemed ineligible
  • Eligible invoice dates, project completion and claim submission deadlines
  • What is needed with the claim submission
  • Instructions on how to verify participation in an eligible KSE
  • Links to the necessary documents (e.g., Claim Form, Electronic Funds Transfer Form, Final Claim Questionnaire, etc.)
  • Information on how to submit your claim
Each project must be complete, fully paid for, the practice implemented on new acres, and an eligible KSE completed before a claim is submitted.

As part of an eligible project, every claimed cost must be supported by an invoice in the name of the applicant farm business and one of the following proofs of payment:
  • Copy of front and back of cancelled cheque
  • Electronic image of processed cheque
  • Statement from banking institution indicating to whom the processed cheque was written, or electronic payment made, and for what amount
  • Credit card or debit card receipt clearly identifying amount and to whom the payment was made. Credit card or debit card numbers and other information, including costs that are unrelated to the project, should be blacked out.
Cash payments for project costs are strongly discouraged, as they may not meet requirements for proof of payment. If proof of payment is not provided, OSCIA cannot support the cost. OSCIA may request any additional information from the applicant that OSCIA deems necessary (e.g., copies of any audit reports, plans or permits obtained by the applicant in conducting the project) to support their claim.

Cost-share payments are made by electronic funds transfer (EFT) in the name of the legal farm business. All cost-share funding is considered taxable income to the farm business. OSCIA will issue a tax form (AGR-1) and report the amount paid to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA); this is why an applicant’s Social Insurance Number (SIN) is collected if the applicant does not have a CRA Business Number.

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