Species at Risk Partnerships

What it is

The Species at Risk Partnership on Agricultural Lands (SARPAL) is a federal initiative that supports farmers with implementing projects that conserve habitats for at-risk species.

The program is designed to help cattle producers adopt best management practices (BMPs) that benefit their ranch operation and improve habitats for species at risk or of special concern. Those species include:

• Yellow Breasted Chat
• Lewis's Woodpecker
• Painted Turtle
• Badger
• Tiger Salamander
• Spadefoot Toad

However, the BCCA may consider projects designed to support other species.

Types of projects

• Riparian fencing or cross fencing: fencing to manage cattle access to the riparian corridor
• Riparian restoration and replanting: replanting of wild rose or willow shrubs in the riparian zone
• Protection of wildlife trees: installation of livestock rubbing posts to prevent pushing over known nesting trees
• Other: projects that otherwise benefit the species or conserve habitat

How it works

All applications will be reviewed, and ranches will undergo a site evaluation to determine overall benefit to the species and eligibility. Outstanding applications will be held and considered if funding is available.

Eligibility

• The landowner must be a cattle producer.
• The ranch must have a valid premises ID.
• The landowner must be willing to sign a five-year conservation host agreement with the BCCA.
• The conservation project must be done on private land.
• The ranch needs to have either the species present on the ranch or identified critical habitat. This can be determined by our program coordinator.

Submission details

Express your interest by emailing our SARPAL coordinator with the following details:

• Name
• Location (town/city)
• Phone number
• Email address
• If you are a member of the BCCA and which regional or local you belong to
  
• The approximate number of cattle in your operation
• Any other livestock on your property
• The species this project would target
• The habitat types available on your property (such as forest, irrigated field, non-irrigated pasture, etc.)
• The type of project you’re interested in implementing (see above for examples)

QUICK FACTS

• Funded through Environment & Climate Change Canada
• Funding can be used for materials, planning, and project costs
• Applicants must be able to complete their projects by March 31 of the fiscal year
• Allocated to the dry interior plateau
• Runs until March 31, 2025

Contacts

SARPAL Field Coordinator Bob France
BCCA Environmental Coordinator Carley Stewart