Farm operators who have filed income tax returns as farmers will be eligible. The program will cover all agricultural commodities. Corporations are eligible insofar as individuals own them. Shares are traced to individuals who must have at least 10 percent ownership and meet active participation criteria. Payments will be based on 70 percent of the margin shortfall.
Gross margin is the difference between the farm's sales and the variable operating expenses.
If a producer wishes to make a claim they may contact the AIDA office, any Manitoba Agriculture and Food office, MACC, FCC, or PFRA for an application. There is no administration fee. Each producer's maximum government NISA contribution for the year will be deducted from the AIDA payment. The producer will need to apply to NISA to receive the NISA portion. NISA is not included in income or expenses when calculating Gross Margin.