The province has expanded the up to $70.00 per acre riparian tax credit for farmers, with an additional 20 per cent bonus for land sloped 10 per cent or more.

Portage area farmer Ian Wishart feels it's a step in the right direction, because producers haven't been recognized for the buffer strips they construct to protect waterways. He notes it may not go far enough, but there's now some economic benefit for farmers.

Wishart is especially pleased this tax credit recognizes existing riparian practices. In the past, they would have had to re-construct the buffers.

He believes this is a good incentive for farmers to participate in green activities.