For Release: February 22, 2005
New Approach To Municipal Drainage Will
Build Stronger Communities
Program Will Enhance Rural Infrastructure
TORONTO - The Ontario government is enhancing rural infrastructure
by introducing a new model to fund municipal drainage projects, Minister
of Agriculture and Food Steve Peters announced today.
"This government recognizes the importance of a good drainage system
to the infrastructure of our rural communities and our agricultural operations,"
said Peters. "The new Agricultural Drainage Infrastructure Program
will help agricultural landowners and rural municipalities cover the costs
of drainage infrastructure."
The $6 million Agricultural Drainage Infrastructure Program (ADIP-) will:
- Provide grants to agricultural landowners for up to one third of the
costs for new drain construction or improvement projects, and for maintenance
work
- Cover up to two thirds of the costs for this same work in Northern
Ontario
- Provide municipalities with grants to cover one half of the costs
of employing a drainage superintendent.
To better manage the program, the government will more clearly define
grant eligibility, project costs and agricultural land ownership, as well
as establish timelines for submitting grant applications. The Ministry
of Agriculture and Food will work with stakeholders on grant criteria
and any required legislative amendments.
"We are meeting the commitment we made to rural municipalities and
farmers to provide new solutions for enhancing rural infrastructure,"
said Peters. "Together, we will build better farms, a better economy
and a better Ontario."
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Contact:
Jamie Rilett
Minister Peters' Office
(416) 326-6439
(416) 458-2610 (Mobile)
