Metro Vancouver Explores Funding for Agricultural Ecosystem Services Program

Metro Vancouver is investigating a payment for ecosystem services program for agricultural land, aimed at incentivizing farmers to manage land for public benefits like carbon storage and flood control. While short-term funding is available through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a long-term funding mechanism is lacking. A report indicates support for ecosystem services protection among stakeholders, with the provincial government suggested as a potential lead funder. Participants stress that public support should be based on demonstrated outcomes, not solely on farmers.

Published Mar 25, 2026

Metro Vancouver is exploring a payment for ecosystem services program for agricultural land to incentivize farmers for public benefits such as carbon storage and flood control. Current initiatives like the Farmland Advantage Program and Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust provide financial support, but there is no long-term funding mechanism.

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A report reveals that while short-term federal and provincial funding exists through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, stakeholders favor the provincial government as a potential lead funder. Participants express that support for farmers should depend on demonstrated outcomes, advocating for a shared financial burden.