Agricultural Crown Lands Leasing Program Policies

Allocation of Agricultural Crown Lands (Forage Lease and Renewable Permits)
 

Objective

• To support the establishment of viable livestock enterprises in Manitoba by making Crown land available to resident farmers and ranchers who derive a significant portion of their farm income from livestock production.
• To encourage new and young farmers and ranchers in the rural communities.
• To promote good stewardship and management on the land.

Allocation

Available Crown land is advertised with a closing date. Within this advertisement period, applicants complete an application, questionnaire and worksheets which supplies the information used in the land allocation process. The process uses a scoring system which awards points to an applicant based on the following factors:

• Forage and Land Management;
• Herd Size;
• Non-Farm Income;
• Age Bonus;
• New Lessee Bonus;
• Proximity; and
• Distance.

Following the application closing date, applications, questionnaires and worksheets are scored and compared. Points for each allocation factor are awarded according to established schedules.

A parcel of land is normally allocated to the top scoring applicant. The allocation of land based on the points scored may, however, in certain circumstances be waived. For example, where an applicant with the highest score is not the logical user.

Allocation Appeal Process

Unsuccessful applicants may appeal, in writing, within thirty days after the date of the Notice of Allocation. The appeal must contain:

1. The name and address of the person appealing;
2. A copy of the notice of the decision; and
3. Concisely stated reasons for the appeal.

Where the person bringing the appeal/review fails to comply with the three requirements, the appeal/review may be disallowed by the Board. The Board may confirm, set aside or vary the allocation. The decision of the Board is final and binding on all parties.

For more detailed information on this or other policies, contact your local Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Growing Opportunities, Farm Production Advisors, Crown Lands Offices.