Metro Vancouver Investigates Funding for Agricultural Ecosystem Services Program

Metro Vancouver is exploring a payment for ecosystem services program to incentivize farmers to manage land for public benefits such as carbon storage and flood control. Although short-term funding is available through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a long-term funding mechanism is needed. Stakeholders support ecosystem services protection, with the provincial government proposed as a potential lead funder. Public support is urged to be outcome-based rather than solely focused on farmers.

Published Mar 27, 2026

Metro Vancouver is assessing a payment for ecosystem services program targeting agricultural land to encourage farmers to manage their land for public benefits like carbon storage and flood control. Currently, short-term funding is accessible via the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, but a long-term funding solution is absent.

AI-curated by Theia

A report reveals stakeholder backing for ecosystem services protection, with the provincial government suggested as a potential lead funder. Emphasis is placed on ensuring public support is contingent on demonstrated outcomes rather than solely on the farmers' efforts.