Rural communities

Budget 2006 has given Alberta's rural development strategy a $100-million boost.

The funding will be used to establish a Rural Development Project Fund that will support community-based programs to:

• expand and diversify the rural economy,
• improve services in local communities, and
• enhance the quality of life for rural families.

The fund will help deliver on the promise of the rural development strategy — "a place to grow." It will be administered by an arm's-length board, representing all corners of the province. Partnership projects with a strong rural impact will take precedence.

The rural development strategy, announced in February 2005, is the result of a two-year MLA-driven consultation process.

Related story: New development strategy helps rural communities to grow (February 25, 2005)

Other highlights

• A $159-million increase for farm income stabilization.
• A $71-million increase for production insurance.
• $20 million to respond, if necessary, to BSE-related changes in federal regulations to safeguard the livestock feed system.

More information: Rural Development Strategy