The Manitoba government is moving to keep costs down for livestock producers by freezing Agricultural Crown Land forage-lease rental rates.

The province says rates will remain at three dollars and 66 cents per animal unit month through the 2027 grazing season.

Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn says the move comes as Manitoba farmers face added pressure from the ongoing U.S. trade dispute.

The province is also proposing changes that would allow certain producers to consecutively renew leases rather than having the land automatically return to auction after 15 years.