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By Alice McFarlane

Manitoba forage lease extension

Rent freeze on Agricultural Crown Lands in Manitoba

Oct 15, 2025 | 4:21 PM

The Manitoba government is extending the rent freeze for Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL) forage leases into the 2026 growing season.

The current rate of $3.66 per animal unit months remains the lowest ACL rental rate in Western Canada.

Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn said it’s all about making life more affordable for producers.

“Manitoba producers are the backbone of the provincial economy, and our government is committed to keeping life affordable for the hard-working Manitobans who put food on our tables,” Kostyshyn said. “Continuing this rent freeze provides financial stability for producers and reflects our commitment to affordability.”

The announcement is a relief for Crown land users and gives assurance after a year of severe challenges, according to cattle producer Brent Benson.

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“From extreme weather to the uncertainty of trade markets and feed supplies, some producers struggled to keep their family ranches operational without having to make decisions that could affect their sustainability or viability,” Benson said. “We look forward to working with the Manitoba government as we move toward a system of fair and predictable rental rates as well as policies that encourage young producers to enter the industry.”

The ACL program supports approximately 1,750 leaseholders across Manitoba who rely on Crown lands for grazing, haying and cropping activities. The lands support the livestock sector, advancing sustainable land use, and respecting treaty and Indigenous rights.

Alongside the rate freeze, the Manitoba government has launched the first phase of a public engagement process to help shape the future of the ACL program. Through an online survey on EngageMB, Manitobans can provide feedback on three areas: lease allocation methods, limits on the total amount of land a single leaseholder can hold, and renewal options for modern leases.

Manitoba Beef Producers President Matthew Atkinson said consultations about various aspects of the Agricultural Crown Lands Leasing Program will ensure it is responsive to the needs of the cattle sector.

“We strongly encourage beef producers to make their views known during this important engagement process as it will help shape the future of the program,” Atkinson said.

This survey represents the first phase in the ACL program review. Feedback gathered will help inform proposed regulatory updates and program improvements. Further consultation with stakeholders, including leaseholders and Indigenous communities, will follow before final decisions are made.

The survey must be completed by Nov. 24.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com