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Rotational Grazing Systems

On-Farm Climate Action Fund

Not Accepting Applications
For farmers who want to implement fencing and livestock watering system infrastructure to establish new rotational grazing systems or expand acreage of existing systems. Rotational grazing systems must be implemented on at least 10 acres of pasture and must include at least four (4) sections (paddocks) for rotation to be considered eligible for cost-share funding.

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

All 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. 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 they can consider their project complete.

*Applicants were able to apply for a multi-year project, with costs incurred prior to and claimed by February 15, 2023 and costs incurred after February 15, 2023, which must be claimed by October 31, 2023. These projects must be complete and operational by the final claim of October 31, 2023.

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

PROJECT CATEGORY DETAILS

Farm businesses are eligible to apply that are:
  • 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 (provide with application submission)
OR
    • A Cultural Exemption Letter provided by the Indian Agricultural Program of Ontario to First Nations farmers, verifying the farm business operates in a First Nations community (provide with application submission)
OR
    • 25 acres of land or more, assessed as ‘Farm’, as indicated by the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill (provide with application submission)
    • OR
      • An income exemption from the Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program (provided with application submission)
  • Have a valid and up-to-date 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. Note that 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 fees to develop a written rotational grazing management plan. If the application is approved, the written rotational grazing management plan must meet minimum requirements outlined here, and a copy of the completed plan must be included with the claim submission.
  • Materials (e.g., posts, wire, insulators, fencers, gates) and installation costs to support establishment or expansion of rotational grazing systems, including :
    • Fencing:
      • Temporary or permanent cross-fencing
      • Permanent exclusion fencing from wetlands and woodlots (must be part of a grazing management plan, see Documentation required with the application)
      • Permanent perimeter fencing (must be part of a rotational grazing management plan, see Documentation required with the application)
      • Temporary fencing to support the grazing of cover crops
      • Eligible costs for temporary fencing materials are limited to:
        • $3.50/m of installed fencing with a standard energizer
        • $6.50/m of installed fencing if a solar charger is included in the project cost
      • Eligible costs for permanent fencing materials are limited to:
        • $18.00/m of installed fencing
    • Watering systems and installation
      • Gravity fed systems
      • Solar, wind, or motorized powered pumps
      • Waterlines, water hydrants, water troughs
      • Storage tanks (including wildlife ladders)
      • Water aeration systems for existing ponds/reservoirs
    • Purchase and installation of solar powered systems to support electric fencing
    • Portable shade systems
    • Establishing stream crossings* (i.e., bridges, bed level, mid-level, and full flow culverts).
    • One-time costs for improved pasture composition of a rotational grazing system, including:
      • Seed costs (must be purchased from a supplier who is at arm’s length (e.g., unrelated) to the farm business)
      • Custom planting costs
*Copies of required permits must be submitted to OSCIA upon project completion with the claim submission
  • 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.
  • Perimeter/exclusion fencing if not part of a rotational grazing management plan provided with the application submission
  • Consulting services not related to a grazing management plan and/or any plan not prepared by a qualified consultant/professional
  • Non-renewable power sources
  • Texas gates and portable corral panels
  • Costs to support grazing of cash crop residue (e.g., corn stover)
  • Watering systems/shade structures/stream crossings/pasture rejuvenation costs not associated with establishing new or expanding existing acreage of a rotational grazing system
  • Watering systems installed at the barn
  • Establishing a new water supply (e.g., drilling a well, digging a pond)
  • Shelters and/or concrete bases for watering systems
  • Planting of trees and shrubs
  • Invoices not issued in the applicant’s name
  • Extended warranties, taxes, legal fees, financing charges, loan interest payments, bank fees
  • In-kind contributions of labour and farm equipment
  • Materials or products produced on farm (e.g., posts)
  • Materials or services purchased outside the eligible invoice dates
  • Replacement, repair, or maintenance of existing fencing and/or watering systems
  • Typical farm equipment (e.g., tractors, skid steers, combines, livestock trailers, post hole diggers/augers, hay wagons) and related accessories or attachments
  • Any cost purchased from a supplier who is not at arm’s length from the applicant (i.e., businesses owned by siblings or parents, through blood or marriage)
Cost-share funding is available under the OFCAF at 65% of approved project 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, 2024.   

Rotational Grazing Systems 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

* 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)
Relative to some other opportunities, OFCAF provides a higher 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.
    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. You must participate in a minimum of one (1) KSE for each approved project that aligns with your project’s category. Costs associated with attending the KSE (e.g., registration, mileage, travel, etc.) are not eligible for cost-share.

A listing of approved events can be found at https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/knowledge-sharing-event-kse/

Contact OSCIA at OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org to inquire if an event that is not listed meets the OFCAF KSE requirements.
Applications are only accepted during application intakes, which can be found above. Be sure to carefully review the program guide in its entirety – only eligible and complete applications will be considered. Make sure the following is included with the application submission:
  • Enrolment and Application Form
  • FBRN or documentation supporting an exemption or most 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 and supporting plans/assessments
  • Detailed site sketch(es) based on a satellite image (e.g., using GoogleMaps, AgMaps) of all field(s) included in the application. The site sketch(es) must include the following, clearly identified on the sketch(es):
    • The precise location (address/GPS coordinates) and total area (acres)
    • All proposed and existing infrastructure, including fencing and lengths (e.g., perimeter fencing, temporary and interior cross-fencing, alleyways, etc.), water (e.g., source, pumps, piping, troughs, stock tanks, etc.)
    • Rotation plan, including anticipated turnout and movement dates, as well as rest and grazing periods for each paddock

      • For an example of a site sketch, click here. A site sketch is not required for applications which are only for a rotational grazing management plan. Hand drawn sketches will not be accepted. If you need help accessing a satellite image of your project location, please contact your local OSCIA Field Staff for free assistance. Click click here for contact information.

  • A rotational grazing management plan if your application includes the establishment of any perimeter and/or exclusion fencing. The written rotational grazing management plan must meet minimum requirements outlined here.
    Unsure if you need to submit a plan with your application? Click here.
  • If an FBRN has not been provided, please provide documentation 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:

APPLY NOW

Or the Enrolment and Application Form is here:

Enrolment and Application Form for Rotational Grazing Systems

You can submit the forms and all required documentation by email to OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org or by post to 1-367 Woodlawn Rd. W., Guelph, ON, N1H 7K9.
  • 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 required claim documentation is received. The project must be paid for in full by the applicant prior to cost-share being issued.
  • All invoices for the approved project must comply with the eligible invoice dates as 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 with other programs outside of OFCAF up to 100% of the project cost, is permitted if the other programs allow stacking and at least 15% of the project costs come from non-government sources. All funding for a project from additional 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, 2024, 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 printing. 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:
  • If any additional information must be provided (e.g., in the case of a conditional approval)
  • Any costs from the application that were deemed ineligible
  • Eligible invoice dates and project completion and claim submission deadlines
  • What is needed to provide 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, etc.)
  • Information on how to submit the claim
Each project must be complete, fully paid for, and an eligible KSE must be 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 by the applicant 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 income to the farm business for tax purposes. 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.
Farm businesses are eligible to apply that are:
  • 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 (provide with application submission)
OR
    • A Cultural Exemption Letter provided by the Indian Agricultural Program of Ontario to First Nations farmers, verifying the farm business operates in a First Nations community (provide with application submission)
OR
    • 25 acres of land or more, assessed as ‘Farm’, as indicated by the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill (provide with application submission)
    • OR
      • An income exemption from the Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program (provided with application submission)
  • Have a valid and up-to-date 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. Note that 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 fees to develop a written rotational grazing management plan. If the application is approved, the written rotational grazing management plan must meet minimum requirements outlined here, and a copy of the completed plan must be included with the claim submission.
  • Materials (e.g., posts, wire, insulators, fencers, gates) and installation costs to support establishment or expansion of rotational grazing systems, including :
    • Fencing:
      • Temporary or permanent cross-fencing
      • Permanent exclusion fencing from wetlands and woodlots (must be part of a grazing management plan, see Documentation required with the application)
      • Permanent perimeter fencing (must be part of a rotational grazing management plan, see Documentation required with the application)
      • Temporary fencing to support the grazing of cover crops
      • Eligible costs for temporary fencing materials are limited to:
        • $3.50/m of installed fencing with a standard energizer
        • $6.50/m of installed fencing if a solar charger is included in the project cost
      • Eligible costs for permanent fencing materials are limited to:
        • $18.00/m of installed fencing
    • Watering systems and installation
      • Gravity fed systems
      • Solar, wind, or motorized powered pumps
      • Waterlines, water hydrants, water troughs
      • Storage tanks (including wildlife ladders)
      • Water aeration systems for existing ponds/reservoirs
    • Purchase and installation of solar powered systems to support electric fencing
    • Portable shade systems
    • Establishing stream crossings* (i.e., bridges, bed level, mid-level, and full flow culverts).
    • One-time costs for improved pasture composition of a rotational grazing system, including:
      • Seed costs (must be purchased from a supplier who is at arm’s length (e.g., unrelated) to the farm business)
      • Custom planting costs
*Copies of required permits must be submitted to OSCIA upon project completion with the claim submission
  • 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.
  • Perimeter/exclusion fencing if not part of a rotational grazing management plan provided with the application submission
  • Consulting services not related to a grazing management plan and/or any plan not prepared by a qualified consultant/professional
  • Non-renewable power sources
  • Texas gates and portable corral panels
  • Costs to support grazing of cash crop residue (e.g., corn stover)
  • Watering systems/shade structures/stream crossings/pasture rejuvenation costs not associated with establishing new or expanding existing acreage of a rotational grazing system
  • Watering systems installed at the barn
  • Establishing a new water supply (e.g., drilling a well, digging a pond)
  • Shelters and/or concrete bases for watering systems
  • Planting of trees and shrubs
  • Invoices not issued in the applicant’s name
  • Extended warranties, taxes, legal fees, financing charges, loan interest payments, bank fees
  • In-kind contributions of labour and farm equipment
  • Materials or products produced on farm (e.g., posts)
  • Materials or services purchased outside the eligible invoice dates
  • Replacement, repair, or maintenance of existing fencing and/or watering systems
  • Typical farm equipment (e.g., tractors, skid steers, combines, livestock trailers, post hole diggers/augers, hay wagons) and related accessories or attachments
  • Any cost purchased from a supplier who is not at arm’s length from the applicant (i.e., businesses owned by siblings or parents, through blood or marriage)
Cost-share funding is available under the OFCAF at 65% of approved project 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, 2024.   

Rotational Grazing Systems 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

* 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)
  • Detailed site sketch(es) based on a satellite image (e.g., using GoogleMaps, AgMaps) of all field(s) included in the application. The site sketch(es) must include the following, clearly identified on the sketch(es):
    • The precise location (address/GPS coordinates) and total area (acres)
    • All proposed and existing infrastructure, including fencing and lengths (e.g., perimeter fencing, temporary and interior cross-fencing, alleyways, etc.), water (e.g., source, pumps, piping, troughs, stock tanks, etc.)
    • Rotation plan, including anticipated turnout and movement dates, as well as rest and grazing periods for each paddock

      • For an example of a site sketch, click here. A site sketch is not required for applications which are only for a rotational grazing management plan. Hand drawn sketches will not be accepted. If you need help accessing a satellite image of your project location, please contact your local OSCIA Field Staff for free assistance. Click click here for contact information.

  • A rotational grazing management plan if your application includes the establishment of any perimeter and/or exclusion fencing. The written rotational grazing management plan must meet minimum requirements outlined here.
    Unsure if you need to submit a plan with your application? Click here.
  • If an FBRN has not been provided, please provide documentation to support an eligible FBRN exemption, income exemption or the most current Municipal Property Assessment Notice or Municipal Tax Bill.
Relative to some other opportunities, OFCAF provides a higher 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.
    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. You must participate in a minimum of one (1) KSE for each approved project that aligns with your project’s category. Costs associated with attending the KSE (e.g., registration, mileage, travel, etc.) are not eligible for cost-share.

A listing of approved events can be found at https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/knowledge-sharing-event-kse/

Contact OSCIA at OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org to inquire if an event that is not listed meets the OFCAF KSE requirements.
Applications are only accepted during application intakes, which can be found above. Be sure to carefully review the program guide in its entirety – only eligible and complete applications will be considered. Make sure the following is included with the application submission:
  • Enrolment and Application Form
  • FBRN or documentation supporting an exemption or most 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 and supporting plans/assessments
The Enrolment and Application Form and all required documentation can be submitted electronically:

APPLY NOW

Or the Enrolment and Application Form is here:

Enrolment and Application Form for Rotational Grazing Systems

You can submit the forms and all required documentation by email to OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org or by post to 1-367 Woodlawn Rd. W., Guelph, ON, N1H 7K9.
  • 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 required claim documentation is received. The project must be paid for in full by the applicant prior to cost-share being issued.
  • All invoices for the approved project must comply with the eligible invoice dates as 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 with other programs outside of OFCAF up to 100% of the project cost, is permitted if the other programs allow stacking and at least 15% of the project costs come from non-government sources. All funding for a project from additional 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, 2024, 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 printing. 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:
  • If any additional information must be provided (e.g., in the case of a conditional approval)
  • Any costs from the application that were deemed ineligible
  • Eligible invoice dates and project completion and claim submission deadlines
  • What is needed to provide 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, etc.)
  • Information on how to submit the claim
Each project must be complete, fully paid for, and an eligible KSE must be 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 by the applicant 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 income to the farm business for tax purposes. 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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