Major infrastructure projects can affect farmers’ daily lives and operations in ways that are distinct from residential or commercial contexts. We also recognize that compensation frameworks established for other types of property do not fully account for the unique realities of agriculture.
That is why we are developing a dedicated approach to agricultural land, informed by ongoing input of property owners and agricultural stakeholders in Ontario and Quebec.
As such, our approach to agricultural land goes beyond acquisition and compensation.
Agricultural operations during construction
Construction of the future high-speed rail network may result in temporary disruptions to adjacent agricultural operations. Alto recognizes that even short-term impacts can affect land productivity, access, and day-to-day farm management.
That’s why construction planning for agricultural land will focus on minimizing disruption, protecting assets, and clearly communicating to property owners what to expect during this phase.
How Alto will manage impacts during construction
If access to fields, laneways, or farm roads must be temporarily restricted, Alto will provide advance notice and work with owners to identify alternative access where possible. The amount of compensation will depend on the duration of the restriction.
Disruptions will be kept as short as possible. Any permanent access affected by the project will be addressed through a replacement solution, and access to any buildings housing farm animals or residences will be maintained at all times through appropriate alternative access arrangements.
Construction activities will be managed through clear standards, including limits on working hours, dust control measures, and vibration/noise thresholds near farm buildings and residences. These requirements will apply to contractors working on the project.
Where construction occurs near livestock operations or sensitive agricultural activities, Alto will work with property owners to better understand site-specific needs and to reduce disruption where possible through construction planning, access coordination, and communication.
Tile drainage systems represent a significant long-term investment for farms. Prior to the commencement of construction activities, an inspection of existing drainage systems will be undertaken to document pre‑construction conditions. During construction, Alto will protect existing drainage infrastructure, repair any damage caused, and restore drainage function to pre-construction conditions. Where changes are required, replacement infrastructure will be installed at Alto’s cost. Temporary measures or compensation may apply during construction if drainage is affected.
In agricultural areas, topsoil will be stripped, stored, and replaced separately from subsoil. Proper topsoil handling is essential to maintaining soil health and productivity. Topsoil management practices will be informed by agricultural stakeholders and will be a requirement in construction contracts.
Construction hours will aim to reduce noise and disturbance and will be established in consultation with communities. Where extended hours are required during critical construction phases, affected property owners will be notified in advance.
Restoring agricultural land after construction
Where agricultural land is affected but not permanently acquired, Alto will aim to restore it to its previous condition and level of productivity. Restoration will be informed by the condition of the land prior to construction and by how the land was being used.
Restoration commitments
Disturbed agricultural land will be graded, drained, and restored, with topsoil replaced. The objective is to return the land to its pre-construction condition. If full restoration is not possible, compensation will reflect any permanent loss of productivity.
Tile drainage systems affected during construction will be repaired or replaced and tested before restoration is considered complete. Records of drainage works will be maintained and made available to property owners upon request.
Alto will install and maintain fencing along the future tracks. Where existing fencing is removed during construction, temporary fencing will be provided to maintain livestock containment, followed by permanent fencing before construction is completed.
The approach to long-term maintenance of grade-separated crossing structures is still being developed.
After construction, property owners will be able to report any concerns, such as damage to their property, work outside agreed limits, or commitments that were not respected, including measures needed for farming operations, to Alto or its representative.
Reported concerns will be reviewed and addressed as needed. Any material damage caused by the project will be repaired, and a follow-up process will be in place to make sure issues are resolved promptly.