Initiative
Navigating AgriInvest’s New Requirements with Alberta EFP
The recent updates to the AgriInvest program introduce new requirements for certain farming operations. If your farm’s average Allowable Net Sales (ANS) over the past three years is $1 million or more, you’ll need to complete an eligible agri-environmental risk assessment to continue participating in the program. While this change may feel overwhelming, it’s also a chance to enhance the sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness of your operation.
At the Alberta Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), we’re here to help you navigate these requirements.
Why Alberta EFP?
Completing an Environmental Farm Plan through Alberta EFP does more than meet AgriInvest requirements. It’s an opportunity to improve your farm’s long-term sustainability, efficiency, and value. By participating in the program, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your land, strengthen your business, and contribute to a sustainable agricultural future.
Let us help you stay compliant and competitive. Reach out today—our team is here to support you every step of the way!
Understanding Agri-Environmental Risk Assessments
Agri-environmental risk assessments are designed to identify environmental risks on farms and provide practical tools to mitigate them. By completing an assessment, producers gain guidance on improving farm health and safety, increasing property value, reducing costs, and boosting overall competitiveness.
Several recognized standards qualify as agri-environmental risk assessments, including:
Environmental Farm Plan (Alberta EFP)
Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) Sustainable Beef Production Standard
Certified Organic Standards
Nutrient Management Plans (including manure management and those created by 4R Certified Experts)
Other provincial or regional agri-environmental assessments, such as Saskatchewan’s and Quebec’s standards
If you’re unsure which option fits your farm’s needs, the Alberta EFP program offers a streamlined and practical solution for producers in the province and can be customized to your operation[LN1] .
Streamlining Your AgriInvest Participation
One Environmental Farm Plan is sufficient for your operation, regardless of the number of AgriInvest accounts associated with it. Ensure your letter of completion or certificate lists all members linked to the AgriInvest account.
Your EFP is valid for 10 years from its approval date. This date can be found on your certificate and letter of completion, both of which are emailed to you upon approval of your EFP workbook. If you need to retrieve these documents, they are accessible in the “My Documents” tab of your EFP account.
Practical Tips for Compliance
When making deposits into your AgriInvest account, you’ll need to attest that your operation has a valid agri-environmental risk assessment. While the certificate itself may not be required during the deposit process, you should keep it on hand, as it may be requested later.
If the name on your EFP certificate doesn’t match your AgriInvest account, reach out to Alberta EFP staff to resolve the discrepancy. Our team is ready to assist with updates and any other questions you may have.
Support and Resources
Your designated EFP technician is your first point of contact for personalized support. Their contact information is available on your EFP webbook account. Alternatively, our staff can be reached at [email protected] or 587-200-2552.
For more details on the AgriInvest program updates, visit the official Agriculture Canada resource page.