Alberta introduces legislation for agricultural and biogas growth

Alberta’s government has introduced new legislation aimed at expanding and diversifying the agriculture sector while fostering the growth of the biogas industry.

The proposed updates to the Agricultural Operation Practices Act are designed to reduce waste, enable farmers to use organic materials as fertilizer supplements, and attract investment that creates jobs. The act and its regulations set standards for agricultural operations handling manure and organic materials. With biodigesters already in use in the province, these changes will provide clarity for those storing and using biogas byproducts as crop nutrients, encouraging further investment in biodigester facilities.

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, highlighted the dedication of Alberta’s farmers and ranchers in producing high-quality food for both local and global markets.

“These updates will give them access to more nutrient sources for crop growth. With abundant organic material near livestock operations, Alberta will remain an attractive investment destination for the biogas industry,” says Minister Sigurdson. “These changes will offer regulatory certainty, fostering job creation in rural Alberta.”

Annually, farmers, ranchers, and agri-processors in Alberta produce 3.4 million tonnes of organic waste, primarily from livestock manure and food processing. These sectors have sought more cost-effective and efficient waste management solutions from the government.

Currently, the act lacks clear guidelines on managing organic material, leading to regulatory uncertainty for agricultural operations regarding the storage and use of digestate from manure.

The proposed additions to the Act would allow organic waste from the agricultural sector to be diverted from landfills to biogas plants. These plants would convert the waste into heat, electricity, or renewable natural gas, supporting a circular economy.

At present, this process is governed by a memorandum of understanding between Agriculture and Irrigation, Environment and Protect Areas, and the Natural Resources Conservation Board. Elevating this memorandum into legislation will provide the biogas industry with the regulatory certainty needed to continue operations in Albera.

The material left after the conversion process, known as digestate, can be used by farmers as a soil amendment. The proposed changes would permit producers to store and use digestate on their farms as a supplement to synthetic fertilizers, promoting better waste utilization and supporting sustainable agriculture.

Kent Holowath, vice-chair of Alberta Beef Producers, expressed gratitude towards Minister Sigurdson and the Government of Alberta for their support of agricultural innovation.

“Alberta Beef Producers appreciate Minister Sigurdson and the Government of Alberta for championing innovation in agriculture,” says Holowath. “These changes remove barriers, create new energy-efficient income opportunities, and strengthen Alberta’s leadership in both agriculture and energy, benefiting producers, consumers, and the province.”