Farmland-Riparian Interface Stewardship Program

What it is

The Farmland-Riparian Interface Stewardship Program (FRISP) helps producers protect and enhance water quality, riparian vegetation and fish habitat. The program addresses watershed resource concerns by encouraging sustainable land management practices in support of the agricultural sector.

The program’s objectives are to:

• Promote long-term environmental stewardship and sustainability for the agricultural community
• Restore and enhance farmland, as related to the management of watersheds and their associated riparian corridors
• Support cooperative planning of riparian habitat rehabilitation and agricultural activities between landowners, resource management agencies and community groups
• Increase awareness of the interactions between farmland use and fish habitat and other wildlife values associated with riparian and aquatic resources
• Resolve riparian related conflicts that may arise between landowners and resource agencies

Services for producers

FRISP increases awareness, involvement and compliance by the agriculture community to agency regulatory requirements through the following:

• Technical information
• Advice and training
• Project prescriptions and cost estimates
• Logistical support for riparian/fish habitat enhancement
• Solving waste management issues
• On-site support for rehabilitation projects

FRISP does not fund capital expenditures or labour for projects, although this funding can be sought from other programs, organizations, agencies and in-kind donations.

Community collaboration

FRISP takes pride in supporting community involvement in all its projects through equipment sharing, dividing up certain contracts for shared workload, as well as involving high school students, industry partners and local non-profits groups in planting partnerships.

This can create a great sense of community pride and awareness, focusing on functional watercourse systems and riparian management.

How it works

FRISP supports cattle producers or groups of cattle producers that have been identified by the BCCA. To access the program, contact the FRISP program manager or BCCA office.

Process

1. Consultation with a FRISP Technical Advisor — This is where the issue and possible solutions are identified and the "buy in" concept is emphasized in the best interests of the applicant.
2. Project partnerships — Potential project partnerships are explored to help with the project, either through in-kind or financial contributions or with those who have a common interest in the project, such as neighbours. In-kind donations by applicants are recommended and encouraged to ensure long-term sustainability of the program.
3. Approvals and permits — It is imperative to obtain the necessary permits, approvals or otherwise from provincial and federal agencies and others.
4. Project completion with the assistance of the Technical Advisor — Especially for landowners, this provides an opportunity for the applicant to address the issue and meet all regulatory requirements respecting "changes in and about a stream.” This phase is very positive as landowners, contractors and agencies are all involved in a stewardship capacity and achieving a common goal.

QUICK FACTS

• Funded by a cross-section of stakeholders, industry, government and private funders
• Helps producers with riparian issues, primarily through technical advice and logistical support
• Works co-operatively with provincial and federal government agencies, as well as First Nations and resource management organizations, to ensure project success and obtain any required project approvals

Contacts

FRISP program manager Lee Hesketh
Phone 250-547-6586
Cell 250-308-9623