by Nathan Stevens

May 24, 2013 - May of 2013 is a milestone month for agriculture. It has been ten years since BSE was discovered in Canada. That moment was a turning point for many farmers across the country and in Ontario. The BSE story is one of change, and demonstrates that resourceful farmers are capable of adapting to a shifting landscape as the world changes around them.

For immediate release
Guelph, ON, May 21, 2013 – Ontario farmers are paying an estimated $22 million more every year for crop protection products than their competitors in the United States. This is according to analysis done by the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (OFVGA).

By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

When approximately 700 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada employees received notices last week that their jobs could be on the chopping block, it seems that valuable agricultural research may be lost with them. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is very troubled by this news, and the longer-term implications these loses will have on the competitiveness of Canada’s agricultural industry.

by Nathan Stevens

Earlier this month, the government of Ontario celebrated crossing the ten billion dollar threshold in food exports. In addition, a recent session held by the Cross Border Transportation Centre at the University of Windsor outlined the challenges facing exporters targeting the American marketplace. In order for our food exports to continue to grow, we need to focus on achieving greater efficiencies when it comes to moving food across the border.

Ontario farmers who don’t have access to natural gas on the farm want the infrastructure in place to make it happen, says a recent survey conducted by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). That’s because the appeal of natural gas for use in Ontario homes – its affordability, cleanliness, safety and convenience – extends to Ontario farm businesses. And the cost savings associated with heating hog or poultry barns or operating a greenhouse can be a make-or-break scenario for farm profitability.

Guelph, ON [May 3, 2013] – This week’s budget announcement contains encouraging signs for rural Ontario, according to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). But the next six months will be telling as we work with the Wynne government to move these budget items forward.

Every year, more than 100 people die in farm accidents across Canada. Most of these accidents are predictable and preventable. With the spring rush on now, we know you are busy planning crop inputs and field activities, and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) urges you to plan for safety too.

Guelph, ON [May 2, 2013] – Rural infrastructure in Ontario received a huge boost when the provincial government announced a $100 million investment on April 26. Available October 1, 2013, the new investment plan will help small, rural and Northern municipalities build roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure development throughout 2013-2014.

17 projects selected by an expert review panel from 38 eligible applications for Water Resource Adaptation and Management Initiative (WRAMI) funding over the coming year.  This research and demonstration initiative will allocate approximately $900,000 to encourage demonstration and pilot projects that showcase water conservation or efficiency equipment, technologies or tools by farm groups and organizations.

WRAMI is providing funding for demonstration and research projects that showcase innovative technologies and solutions to water conservation and water use efficiency problems within agriculture and demonstrate strategies for drought preparedness and activities related to adapting to climate change.

Funding for this initiative has been provided by the federal and Ontario governments through the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

To view the full release visit: http://www.farmfoodcare.org/news/news-articles/27-farm-food-care/media/news-releases/2013/269-17-research-projects-funded-under-wrami-initiative

The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario is working on behalf of farmers to increase the flexibility they have when dealing with environmental regulations. Most recently, the CFFO submitted comments on a proposal to allow greenhouse waste water to be land applied under the Nutrient Management Act instead of seeking an Environmental Compliance Approval, if it is a better fit for their situation.

The Wynne government tables its first budget on May 2, and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) – along with many Ontarians – will be looking closely at the details and the impact and opportunities for Ontario agriculture.

Guelph ON, April 25, 2013 - At the recent Ontario Veal Association (OVA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Stratford, Ian Foster, a grain-fed veal farmer from Aylmer, was recognized for his long-standing service to the OVA and the Ontario veal industry with the presentation of the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award as well as the OVA Board of Directors Award.

Guelph ON, April 25, 2013 - At a recent Ontario Veal Association (OVA) Board meeting Judy Dirksen was elected to her 9th straight term as President.

Judy and her husband Dick operate a grain-fed veal operation near Harriston. First elected to the Board in 2001, Dirksen has represented the Ontario veal industry in many capacities and is currently serving as Chair of the President’s Council, Secretary of the Agricultural Adaptation Council and was instrumental in the development of the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Council.

April 22, 2013 – Farm & Food Care will be partnering with Heritage Hill Farms of New Dundee, Foodland Ontario and Egg Farmers of Ontario to host Ontario’s first ever Breakfast on the Farm program on June 22, 2013 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There’s another source of power available in Ontario that deserves consideration by the agriculture sector. Combined heat and power, also known as cogeneration, effectively gets two uses out of one supply of fuel. Efficiencies gained through this type of combined system have the potential for fuel savings of 5% to 35%, compared to when heating and power operations are separate.

Guelph ON, April 19, 2013 – The results of the recent Producer Expression of Opinion vote, held this past March, have been released by the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (OFPMC). The results indicate that Ontario’s veal and dairy producers overwhelmingly support the creation of a veal marketing board. The vote not only met the thresholds established by the Commission but far exceeded them.

For Immediate Release
April 11, 2013

By Lilian Schaer for Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association

Fish are once again flourishing in their natural habitat in a small tributary to Niagara Region’s Sixteen Mile Creek, since an eroded culvert was replaced with a new clear-span bridge crossing. Now, fish can make their way downstream and farmers can easily cross the stream with equipment without endangering the habitat.
“We knew we needed to come up with a plan to replace this culvert,” says Paul VanderMolen, farm property manager with Sixteen Mile Cellar, a vineyard near Jordan Station, ON, who oversaw the project. “The culvert was perched from erosion and the fish couldn’t get through so we knew we had to do something.”

Guelph ON, April 8 2013–Two healthy kids have been born this spring on an Ontario goat farm from fertilized goat embryos that were collected trans-cervically – without the use of surgical intervention – last fall. The successful live birth marks the first time that trans-cervical embryo transfer has been used in goats in Ontario and is the final step in a reproductive project that has been underway to advance genetics in Ontario’s goat industry.

GUELPH, ONTARIO (April 3, 2013) – The Ontario Pork Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Amy Cronin was re-elected Chair and John De Bruyn was elected as Vice–Chair at yesterday’s board meeting. Eric Schwindt from Elmira is the newest member of the board serving Zone 2 (Perth, Niagara, Oxford, Golden Horseshoe, Haldimand-Norfolk and Waterloo). He replaces Curtiss Littlejohn who retired this spring.

The development of a provincial agriculture and food strategy breaks new ground for the Ontario government – intended to create a local food system that supports farmers, increases awareness on the importance of eating local and sets targets for public sector organizations that will be publicly reported and scrutinized.

This week is a big week for water. It’s Canada Water Week, a celebration of water from coast-to-coast-to coast, and today, March 22 is World Water Day. The purpose of these designated days is to raise the overall profile and understanding of water. For Ontario farmers, it’s an opportunity to acknowledge our key role as environmental stewards.

Ontario farmers live and work in rural Ontario, where daily energy requirements can be significant. In addition to home heating requirements, farm businesses use significant amounts of energy to heat barns, run grain dryers and ventilate buildings. But the type of energy used on Ontario farms varies, and that can have a huge impact on the environment, as well as a farmer’s bottom line.

Guelph ON, March 13, 2013– A new online record-keeping program will track and evaluate production and movement of meat goats in Ontario. Ontario Goat has worked with Beef Improvement Opportunities (BIO) to adapt their bioTrack livestock management program for meat goats, an online record-keeping system that captures herd information, including pedigree, health records, genetic evaluations and animal movements.

Upcoming “Producer Expression of Opinion” vote to be held March 18-29, 2013

GUELPH, Ont– The time has come for Ontario’s dairy and veal producers to make an important decision on how Ontario Veal and the veal industry will be shaped and positioned for the future. This is the chance for producers to have their say, make a positive change for the industry and help Ontario Veal (OV) become a formally recognized and separate commodity organization under the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Act.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

March 8, 2013 - It’s a critical time for Ontario’s new provincial government. Following a throne speech that some critics suggested was “vague,” Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne will be expected to reveal details about her government’s plan for Ontario. The Standing Committee on Finance conducts hearings in the lead up to the new provincial budget, and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) plans to once again appear before the committee and the finance minister to provide input on the next provincial budget.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

When leaders in rural Ontario get together, big things happen. And for good reason – rural Ontario is home to our rural communities, farms, mines, forestry, vistas, water recharge areas, vacation land, food and our agrarian heritage.

by Nathan Stevens, March 1, 2013 - The Christian Farmers Federation is a strong proponent of farmland preservation. We have argued and will continue to argue that the long-term strategic importance of our best farmland outweighs the value of building new sub-divisions. Therefore, it is no surprise that the recent decision of the Ontario Municipal Board to dramatically alter the planned development of the Region of Waterloo is a huge disappointment for the CFFO and a setback for farmland preservation efforts.

RIDGETOWN, ON (February 26, 2013) - The program that has educated and trained Ontario farmers and pesticide vendors in the responsible and safe use of pesticides is going online. In the past 25 years, the Ontario Pesticide Education Program has trained over 21,000 farmers, and over 1,100 pesticide vendors in best management practices for pesticide use. As well, the course has trained 273 Certified Farmers who now provide on-farm pesticide safety training to their assistants and employees. Over 220 courses are planned for this winter and over 3,000 farmers will either renew their certification or certify for the first time.

Fiscal responsibility, economic growth and increased employment topped the list of priorities in the throne speech this week. Ontario’s newly minted Wynne government calls its priorities “bedrocks” to build on.

February 15, 2013 - Guelph, ON - Henry Denotter, a grain producer from Kingsville, has taken over as the President of the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) for 2013. Henry and his wife, Kathy, along with their family, operate Denotter Farms, a grain and oil seed operation marketing corn, soybeans and wheat, located two miles west of the Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary in Essex County.

Wynne starts strong for agriculture

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

It’s been a positive week for Ontario agriculture. On February 11, I was fortunate to be invited to attend the swearing in of our new Premier and Minister of Agriculture, Kathleen Wynne, and watched as she appointed her cabinet and declared, “I’m here for all of you.”

February 15, 2013 - by Nathan Stevens

The CFFO is pleased to see that Premiere Kathleen Wynne maintained her commitment to become the Minister of Agriculture. This decision by the Premiere will be a great opportunity for the governing Liberal party to reconnect with rural Ontario. There are a wide range of issues and concerns for agriculture that the Premiere will have to give consideration as she leads the province into the future.

By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

When Canadians celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 this year, farmers will mark a second national milestone: Food Freedom Day. By February 14, 2013, the average Canadian has earned enough income to pay their grocery bill for the entire year.

Guelph, ON [February 7, 2013] – Former GMO activist turned GMO supporter Mark Lynas will be the keynote speaker at the 2013 Wm. A. Stewart Lecture & Reception on Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 7 pm at the London Convention Centre in London, Ontario.

February 1, 2013

Back to business for Ontario politics
By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

As Ontario’s elected representatives prepare to head back to the legislature on February 19, Ontarians look forward to a productive spring session following a four month hiatus. Most of the Queen’s Park business that was active throughout 2012 died on the legislative table when the government was prorogued in October 2012. That leaves a clean slate for new business in 2013 – including agriculture.

January 31, 2013 (Guelph) - When it comes to food and farming, the battle for hearts and minds, wallets and headlines are often based on farm animal welfare or environmental issues and arguments. Through two days of forums planned for February 12 and 13 in Guelph, Farm & Food Care Ontario will provide the opportunity to hear some innovative and challenging speakers on the often divisive topics of environmental stewardship and farm animal care.

January 18, 2013

Drive Forward with OFA
By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

There’s a new process to becoming a member of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture in 2013, and every year moving forward. Now, farmers earning more than $7,000 per year from their farm will need to follow a two-step membership process that includes completion of the farm business registration (FBR) process and completion of an OFA membership agreement.

Former Vice Chair to lead organization

For immediate release

(Niagara Falls, ON, January 15, 2013) – The former Vice Chair of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA) has been chosen by his peers to be the organization’s new leader. Grape grower Ray Duc is the new Chair of the OFVGA after being elected to the position at the organization’s 154th annual meeting today. He succeeds Mac James, who stepped down after serving one year as head of the OFVGA. 

Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Service honoured by fruit and vegetable growers

For immediate release

Niagara Falls ON, January 15, 2013 – The organization that manages the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) has been recognized for its contributions to the Ontario horticulture sector. The Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Service – commonly known as FARMS – was named the recipient of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA) Award of Merit, which was presented at the organization’s annual banquet last night.

“Safe Areas” Protect Sheep from Coyotes

For immediate release

November 28, 2012

Prepared by Nancy Tilt for the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association

Coyote predation is the biggest limitation to husbanding sheep on any scale, say Cherry Allen and Mark Ritchie of Foot Flats Farm, who have raised sheep on Amherst Island near Kingston since 1992. That is why they embarked on a project 10 years ago to develop a “safe area” to protect their flock.

Housing expert to speak at upcoming calf care conference

Keynote speaker addresses housing, ventilation impacts on calf health

Immediate Release: November 27, 2012
 
Guelph, ON, November 27, 2012 ¨C A leading expert in calf housing is the keynote speaker at the upcoming Healthy Calf Care conference. Dr. Ken Nordlund of University of Wisconsin-Madison will discuss how improving housing and ventilation can improve calf health at the one-day event.

Guelph ON. Producer response to a new pilot funding initiative for grassland habitat protection has exceeded expectations. Environmental Programs Coordinator Christine Schmalz with the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) says the organization received more bid packages from interested farmers than they anticipated which bodes well for the success of the program, and provides a clear signal that farmers are genuinely interested.

Guelph ON, November 19, 2012 – The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association is now accepting nominations for its annual Industry Award of Merit, which is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the fruit and vegetable industry. This can include strategic leadership, technical input, and/or the dedication shown by an individual or organization to Ontario’s fruit and vegetable sector.

For Immediate Release - (Guelph) November 2, 2012 – Burnbrae Farms Ltd. has announced a $250,000 donation to the Farm & Food Care Foundation. The announcement was made to a capacity crowd at the Foundation’s annual Harvest Gala in Guelph last night and is the largest commitment made yet to the two-year-old charity.

November 2nd, 2012 (Guelph, ON) – The Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB) presented its annual Paul Mistele Memorial Award to Whittamore’s Farm at the fifth annual Ontario Harvest Gala in Guelph last night.

CFFO Commentary: The Ontario Legislature is Placed on Hold but Important Work is Still Being Done

By: Nathan Stevens

October 19, 2012

Provincial politics got a huge surprise this week with Premier Dalton McGuinty choosing to step down as leader of the Liberal Party. Furthermore, the decision to prorogue the legislature while the government bargains with public sector unions and the Liberal Party selects a new leader puts an end to new legislation and committee work. While not ideal, this does allow for many potential laws to be considered from different angles before they are potentially reintroduced and for many on-going initiatives to continue.

GUELPH, ON – What are the impacts of 28 years of leadership development? What is the future direction for agricultural leadership programming in Ontario? These are questions being raised by the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) as it undertakes a full review of the long-running Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP). The review is entitled: "Development of the next generation agricultural leadership strategy."

For immediate release October 1, 2012 (London) – The Ontario Bean Producers’ Marketing Board (OBPMB) is opposed to a recent decision by the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (OFPMC) to proceed with a planned bean producer vote despite the fact that the OBPMB has formally withdrawn from a merger process with the Ontario Coloured Bean Growers’ Association (OCBGA). A letter from Commission chair Geri Kamenz on September 21 informed the two board chairs that the commission will be proceeding with a producer vote in October, 2012.

Mississauga, September 25, 2012 –Farming and food leaders from across Canada and the United States came together in Mississauga this week at the inaugural North American Forum on Sustainable Animal Agriculture. Farmers, processors, retailers, agri-business, researchers, government and other food industry leaders discussed issues of critical importance to everyone in attendance, in particular, defining sustainable animal agriculture in a way that supports agriculture while building consumer trust. The forum was co-sponsored by the Farm & Food Care Foundation, based in Ontario, and the Center for Food Integrity, an American organization with a mandate to build consumer trust and confidence in food and farming.

OFA Commentary: Best of a bad deal

September 20, 2012

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Canada’s federal government has sent a clear signal to farmers across the country: our government is not prepared to shoulder much of the responsibility or risks involved with feeding Canadian food to Canadians. The federal government’s recent announcement of the five-year Growing Forward 2 policy framework for agriculture, agri-food and agri-products has cut funding from the precise areas where Canadian farmers need it most: in cost-shared programs intended to provide a modicum of income stability in these highly uncertain economic times.

Guelph, Ontario [September 18, 2012] – The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) and its partner Hay East 2012 today issued an urgent plea for Canadians and Canadian businesses to provide donations to support the transportation of hay from Western to Eastern Canada livestock farmers. The funds raised will provide relief for Ontario livestock farmers facing a critical feed shortage as a result of summer drought conditions. Scotiabank is supporting the effort by establishing an account and accepting donations at any Scotiabank branch across Canada.

GUELPH, ON (September 19, 2012) – Grain Farmers of Ontario congratulates founding chair and director Don Kenny on his appointment by Minister of Agriculture, Gerry Ritz to the federal government’s Agri-Innovators'

Ontario Bean Producers’ Withdraw From the Vote

The Ontario Bean Producers’ Marketing Board (OBPMB) has served notice that it is withdrawing from the merger process to form an amalgamated Board with the Ontario Coloured Bean Growers’ Association.

GUELPH, ONTARIO [Sept 17, 2012] –   Canadians continue to have an increasingly positive impression of Canadian agriculture, with 88% of those polled ranking it positive or neutral, up from 81% in 2009 and 75% in 2006.    That’s one of the key findings from the new 2012 Farm and Food Care “Canadian Attitudes Study towards Food and Farming” study. 

OFA Commentary: Hay East participants are neighbours helping neighbours

September 14, 2012

By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Vice-President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The popular “Hay West” program that began in 2002 when eastern Canadian farmers sent hay to drought-ridden Western Canada is making a comeback. This time, our western neighbours are reciprocating, and naming the program “Hay East.”

Hay East working to deliver hay to drought-stricken farms

Guelph, ON [Sept 13, 2012] – There is some hope emerging for farmers in the 19 identified drought disaster areas in Ontario thanks to a program that was launched yesterday at the Canadian Federation of Agriculture roundtable at the federal, provincial and territorial agriculture ministers’ meeting in Whitehorse.

Guelph ON, September 12, 2012 – Farmers can test their business planning skills as part of a new competition launched by the Agricultural Management Institute (AMI). The Most Profitable Acre Challenge will look at criteria like input costs, production practices, yield, marketing tactics and business management practices to determine the most profitable acre in corn or soybean production.

For immediate release
September 6, 2012

By Lilian Schaer for Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association

Biomass is a promising emerging market in Ontario and farmers can learn more about growing and making money from these purpose-grown crops at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, as well as on a series of upcoming regional car tours.

For Immediate Release

Grain Farmers of Ontario on new bee death information

GUELPH, ON (September 4, 2012) – Grain Farmers of Ontario is interested and following the recent updates surrounding the potential impact of the Bayer and Syngenta seed treatments on bee kills earlier this year.

Horse racing industry needs new partnership to survive

August 31, 2012
 
By Keith Currie, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)
 
Ontario’s provincial government has officially been told something stakeholders in the province’s horse racing industry have been saying for several months: without slots revenue or some other revenue stream the industry will cease to exist.
 

August 12, 2012 -- Kingsville, ON.   The annual summer director’s meeting of the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) was held at the farm of Henry Denotter of Kingsville, Ontario. Henry is the 1st Vice President of OSCIA and was acclaimed as the President Elect for 2013.  He represents the counties of Essex, Kent, and Lambton.  Henry, his wife, Kathy, and family operate Denotter Farms, a grain and oil seed operation marketing corn, soybeans and wheat, located two miles west of the Jack Miner bird sanctuary in Essex County.

OFA Commentary: Rising food costs won’t be as steep as feared

By Debra Pretty-Straathof,Vice-President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
 
Drought’s slow burn of North American crops this season has sent prices for food commodities – such as corn, soybeans and wheat – soaring. But the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) suggests the subsequent rise in food prices might be less impactful on consumers than originally feared. This outcome should prevail in Canada as well.
 

New program to support Ontario on-farm grassland habitat projects

Funding opportunities available for farmers to implement best management practices

For immediate release

August 10, 2012

Guelph ON – Funding for on-farm projects to protect grassland habitats is now available to Ontario farmers through an innovative new government program for the 2012 and 2013 cropping years.

Ontario Federation of Agriculture - COMMENTARY
 
August 10, 2012

Drought’s damage provides a timely case study for future farm programs
 
By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
 
The rainfall that is forecast for Ontario in the coming weeks is too little too late for many of the province’s farms. The drought has created a critical livestock feed shortage due to a double whammy of dormant pastures and low corn, soybean and hay yields. The situation speaks to the need for emergency relief for Ontario’s livestock farmers, and the continued need for programs that help all farmers manage such risks in the future.
 

Funding Available for On-Farm Protection of Species At Risk:
Cost-share opportunities for Ontario farmers to protect essential habitats

For immediate release

August 9, 2012

Guelph ON. Farmers will be able to access funding for on-farm projects to protect species at risk under a government program that will be available for the 2012 cropping year.

Spotted Wing Drosophila Pest Alert - August 9, 2012

The following information has been provided by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Please circulate to your members as needed. It is also available on the OFVGA website at http://www.ofvga.org/news.php.

The spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is an invasive vinegar fly from Asia that was first identified in California in 2008. Since then, it has rapidly spread throughout most fruit producing regions of North America and several European countries.

First North American Forum on Sustainable Animal Agriculture

Farmers and food industry partners to come together

For Immediate Release - (Guelph) August 9, 2012 – The Farm & Food Care Foundation is partnering with its American counterpart, the Center for Food Integrity, to host the North American Forum on Sustainable Animal Agriculture.

Guelph, ON The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) will partner with Sylvite at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) September 11, 12, 13, 2012 to expand their outreach related to crop fertility and soil health. Sylvite is the largest Canadian-owned, independent wholesaler of farm fertilizer in Ontario and eastern Canada. Their integrated network includes over 300 service-oriented people, extensive warehousing services, financial services and agricultural supply.

When farmers receive their Property Assessment Notice in the mail this fall, they may not like what they see. We expect the higher prices paid forfarmland will result in double digit increases in farm property assessments.

OFA Commentary: Know your rights when unexpected visitors show up on the farm

July 13, 2012
 
By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Vice-President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
 
Hikers, hunters and ATV drivers are among the many Ontarians seeking large open spaces to explore each summer. But when recreational activities lead them onto private property without the landowner’s or tenant’s permission, those vacationers become trespassers that may put working farms at risk.
 

In Spring 2012, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) conducted a general membership survey through print and online, with the help of Ipsos Forward Research. Our goal was to get to know our members better, and to learn what they value most in their OFA membership. We also wanted to gain a better understanding of member satisfaction levels, and their preferred methods of communication.

Guelph, ON [July 4, 2012] – When it comes to talking to government about issues that are most important to farmers, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) members rank regulations (89%) and risk management programs (75%) at the top of the list, OFA’s recent general membership survey reveals. The survey, conducted in Spring 2012 is the first survey of its kind for OFA.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The 2012 growing season got off to a record start, with many farmers benefiting from warm soil temperatures and early planting conditions. Statistics Canada is reporting record acres of all field crops have been planted by farmers across the country, and if weather cooperates, farmers could be in for a very strong year. But optimism seeded by an early productive season could still combust if, as many experts predict,drought takes hold. Such uncertain weather conditions – with dramatic peaks and lows – are another downside of climate change, and can seriously impact the quality of important business planning decisions on the farm.

GUELPH, ON (June 28, 2012) – Grain Farmers of Ontario is pleased to announce that license fees will be lowered for the 2012 crop year.

Caring for the Land.com will highlight farm stewardship initiatives

June 28, 2012 – A new blog titled Caring for the Land (www.caringfortheland.com) has been launched to focus on some of the innovative environmental initiatives happening on Canadian farms. 

After devastating hive loss due to acute poisoning symptoms, Ontario Beekeepers were relieved to hear of Health Canada’s decision to re-evaluate neonicotinoid insecticides

Milton, Ontario (June 19, 2012)

Given the high number of reports of acute poisoning, and with lab results indicating the presence of Clothiandin, Ontario Beekeepers are pleased with Health Canada’s initiate to re-evaluate nitro-guanidine neonicotinoid insecticides and associated products.

A bill aimed at cleaning and protecting Ontario’s Great Lakes has been introduced into Ontario’s legislature, along with a draft of “Ontario’s Great Lakes Strategy,” both of which are inviting public comment until later this summer. Together, the documents represent acomprehensive one-two punch of policy and legislation that underlines the Ontario government’s commitment to an important national resource.

GUELPH, ON (June 21, 2012) – The recent announcement that Canada has officially received an invitation to join the Trans Pacific Partnership trade negotiations is great news for Ontario’s grain farmers.

June 14, 2012 - by Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector never looks for shortcuts when it comes to food safety. The people working in our industry from coast to coast are trained to meet some of the highest food safety standards in the world. But even with these world-class standards, mistakes can happen. And when they do, they pose a food safety risk that can have a devastating effect on consumerhealth, and negatively impact consumer confidence for years to come.

The federal and provincial governments are finalizing the details for Growing Forward 2 – the five-year policy plan for Canadian agriculture. The federal and provincial agriculture ministers are expected to sign off on the new agreement this fall. The agreement’s contents will determine the future for agricultural programs for the next five years, including the programs currently know as the agri- suite of programs - AgriStability, AgriInvest, AgriRecovery and AgriInsurance.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

Every day is farm safety day on the farm. But the busy spring planting season demands extra attention to worker safety. Longer hours, fatigue and racing against the weather create an environment ripe with risk and complacency. Accident prevention is part of the solution to keeping Ontario farm families and workers safe while they’re doing what has to be done on the farm.

May 22, 2012 – It’s often said that there’s no such thing as a typical farmer – that Ontario’s farm community is comprised of tens of thousands of outstanding farmers.  Each farmer could be considered unique for the way they grow their crops, raise their livestock or manage their environmental practices.

By Mark Reusser, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

Recently the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) criticized the provincial government’s Standing Committee on General Government for rushing the review of the province’s Aggregate Resources Act. The Act is the piece of legislation meant to balance the need for aggregates such as sand and gravel with the protection of other important resources such as water and agricultural lands. From an agricultural perspective, the Aggregates Resources Act is in dire need of more balance with due consideration of our soil as a strategic resource to be protected. Most aggregate resources are extracted from Ontario’s rural areas and a lot of that from under good farmland.

May 15, 2012 –  Farm & Food Care held its inaugural board meeting and elected its first executive at a meeting in Guelph on May 11th.

By Keith Currie, Executive Member, Ontario Federation of Agriculture(OFA)

Sand and gravel are important non-renewable resources used in building projects such as roads, subway tunnels and public buildings. They’re called “aggregate resources,” and have been under increasing public scrutiny lately, as seen in the rise of quarry issues in communitiesacross the province. Public concerns, coupled with rapid expansion in many urban areas, have prompted a government committee to take a look at the powerful piece of legislation that manages aggregate extraction.

GUELPH, Ont. - As part of the Traceability Foundations Initiative (TFI) program, Ontario Goat (OG) has been successful in securing approximately $245,000 in funding to develop a meat goat management and traceability pilot project.  The two-year pilot project will look at the development of an integrated herd management system with the goal of developing programs and tools to help meat goat producers be more efficient and ultimately more profitable in their operations.

Former MPP to lead industry organization representing 650 Ontario food and beverage processors

May 7, 2012
For immediate release

Cambridge, ON -- The board of directors of the Alliance of Ontario Food Processors (AOFP) has appointed Steve Peters as Executive Director, effective May 2, 2012.

A provincial initiative is underway to create a food and nutrition strategy for Ontario. Sustain Ontario – a coalition of health and food industry professionals – is among a group of organizations contributing to the document, which is available on the group’s website until May 31, 2012.

(Ottawa) 30 April 2012 – Beef cattle owners and others with an interest in animal care and welfare have an opportunity to provide their input into the redevelopment of Canada’s beef cattle Code of Practice through an online survey.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

A number of important discussions took place at Queen’s Park recently during OFA’s “Farmers at the Legislature” reception and lobby day. Farmers from across Ontario met with Ministers, MPPs and staffers from all political parties on April 23, 2012 to stress the importance of agriculture – and sensible agricultural legislation – to Ontario.

April 25, 2012 (GUELPH) - The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (CFFO) is pleased with a recent statement from the Minister’s office, indicating there is willingness to involve stakeholders in finding alternative ways of regulating the management of agricultural waste water. The report that the two involved ministries are working together towards an alternative approach is seen as a definite step in the right direction by CFFO leaders.

Date: April 20, 2012

Agricultural Adaptation Council is important to agriculture

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

As the dust from the federal budget begins to settle, it appears Ontario agriculture has been dealt a serious blow. The federal government recently decided to discontinue using the 14 regional councils, including Ontario’s Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC), for federal program delivery.

April 18, 2012 – Jeff Robinson of Osgoode, Ontario, has been named the recipient of the inaugural Farm & Food Care Champion Award.

Farmers encountering endangered species on the farm can face serious financial repercussions due to the loss of the use of their farmland. That’s because once a species is considered a Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO), it receives automatic protection for both the species itself, and for its habitat.

For immediate release
April 11, 2012

By Lilian Schaer for Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association

Farmers find it pays to invest in practices to manage manure from their livestock in environmentally sound ways. Protecting water sources, and storing and applying manure at the right times and places, for example, are helping the environment while also building healthy soils and maintaining healthy animals.

(Guelph, ON – April 9, 2012) “Very good beef.” Three simple words can sum up the goals of the 2012 Ontario Outstanding Young Farmers, Cory and Heidi Van Groningen of Hillview Farm and VG Meats (www.vgmeats.ca) in South Western Ontario. Yet, they produce very good beef, all while involving and spending time with their family, conserving the environment, providing the best possible care to their animals, and giving back to their community and industry.

April 3, 2012, Guelph:  Scrapie eradication is essential to the long-term sustainability of the Canadian sheep industry and as such, the Canadian Sheep Federation (CSF) supports the Canadian Food Inspection Agency`s (CFIA) scrapie eradication measures.

A flock of 41 Shropshire sheep were removed from a farm that is currently under a CFIA quarantine order. The sheep were allegedly taken from the barn sometime during the evening of April 1 by an organisation identifying itself as the Farmers’ Peace Corps.

Guelph, April 3, 2012 – Amy Cronin from Bluevale was elected Chair of Ontario Pork at the organization’s board of directors meeting in Guelph today.  Together with newly elected Vice Chair, Oliver Haan, from Marysville, they will lead the 2012 organization’s board of directors.      

Guelph, ON [April 4, 2012] – Farm group representatives and MPs shared breakfast together yesterday in the seventh annual Farmers on the Hill lobby day on ParliamentHill. The event provided the opportunity for farmers and approximately 20 MPs to openly discuss agricultural issues and concerns such as the National Food Strategy, business risk management programs, species at risk issues and regulatory harmonization.

Ontario’s provincial government made some difficult fiscal choices in preparing its recent budget, but the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) supports its focus on more effective government.

Guelph, ON [March 28, 2012] – The recent annual report An Overview of the Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food System 2012, published by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada confirms the Ontario Federation of Agriculture’s (OFA) position that agriculture is a driving force in Canada’s economy.

March 28, 2012          

Coalition Pleased Ontario Budget Preserves Risk Management Program

GUELPH – The Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition (OASC), representing producers of livestock, fruit and vegetables and grains and oilseeds farmers, is encouraged the Ontario Government has preserved the Risk Management Program (RMP) for 2012 and will be working to ensure the program meets the needs of both farmers and government in 2013 and beyond.

March 23, 2012

Statement on farm animal care concerns in Ontario on behalf of Ontario’s livestock and poultry farmers

Provincial and federal budgets will both be announced within two days of each other, March 27 and March 29 respectively, and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), along with our parent organization, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA), are awaiting the details.

VINELAND, Ontario, March 21, 2012 – Hosted by Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the Value Chain Management Centre, the Value Chain Innovation Forum, April 3 and 4 at the Delta Meadowvale in Mississauga, Ontario is poised to foster a new approach to agri-food business in Canada.

GUELPH, Ont. – Ontario Veal, Ontario Goat and Ontario Rabbit, all partners of the Ontario Livestock Alliance, are excited about the stellar line-up of speakers slated for the upcoming Joint Annual General Meetings and Producer Education Day on Wednesday April 11th at the Stratford Rotary Complex.

March  20, 2012 - GUELPH, Ont. – The deadline for entries is fast approaching for the inaugural “On-Farm Innovation Challenge” organized by Ontario Veal, Ontario Goat and Ontario Rabbit.  Veal, goat and rabbit producers are encouraged to submit their entries by March 30th, 2012 in order to be eligible to win a number of cash prizes!

March 16, 2012

by Nathan Stevens
 
The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario recently fine-tuned its core policy values. In the rapidly changing world of agriculture, it is important to take time periodically to ensure that the organization has the right priorities for its members. The process affirmed that the organization focus on three key themes when dealing with any issue.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) urges our provincial government to step back and take a serious look at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) proposal to end the Slots at Racetracks program. The recommendation to end the program effective March 31, 2013 was recently adopted by the Ontario government in an effort to improve provincial gaming revenues.

[Guelph, Ontario] March 7, 2012 – Farmers of North America (FNA) and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) announced today the formation of a new partnership that will strengthen the value both organizations provide farmers in Ontario. FNA’s national farmers’ business alliance joins the list of 12 companies and organizations that are part of the OFA member benefits partner program offering enhanced value and savings to members. The partnership was announced today at the Western Fair Farm Show in London, Ontario.

GUELPH, ON (March 7, 2012) – Grain Farmers of Ontario’s March Classic will be held on Monday, March 19th at the London Convention Centre.

Building on the huge success of the 2011 conference, Grain Farmers of Ontario has developed an even bigger and better event for 2012 with speakers from around the globe discussing issues of trade, world markets and new opportunities. The theme ‘Driving Ontario’s Grain Industry to Global Leadership’ will be developed and expanded on by an exciting line-up of speakers. Parliamentary Secretary Pierre Lemieux will open the day followed by John Phipps, host of the US Farm Report. To expose new trends in the industry, Jim Carroll, Agricultural Futurist, joins the conference and closing the morning is keynote speaker Andrew Coyne of The National Post, to share a political and economic perspective.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

One of the ways the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) looks to sustain its success as an organization is by working hard to continue engaging with our members. As the largest general farm organization in Canada, OFA works on behalf of our members to meet our mission of sustainable farming in Ontario and securing agriculture and agri-food as Ontario’s top industry, enabling prosperous farmers, and a healthy and plentiful food supply.

By Mark Wales, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

A report containing 362 recommendations to create a more fiscally sustainable public service sector in Ontario was released on February 15, 2012. Commissioned to reform Ontario’s public services and help our government eliminate the provincial deficit and balance the budget by 2017-2018, the report was chaired by economist Don Drummond, former federal civil servant and chief economist at the TD Bank. Report recommendations were met with some criticism, including those that could directly impact the strength of Ontario’s agricultural economy.

By Nathan Stevens
February 24, 2012

The long awaited Drummond Report was released last week. The weighty report calls for a serious change in direction in this province. If implemented, all Ontarians will be impacted, including agriculture and rural Ontario.

Ontario farmers have identified regulatory burdens as a major obstacle to the success of farming and agri-food businesses. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has long advocated for regulatory modernization and has been fortunate to work with the government of Ontario on the Open for Business initiative to modernize regulations for the past two years.

Friday February 10, 2012 - Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Services Mississauga, Ontario - Our sympathies go out to the victims and families lost in the traffic accident in Hamstead, Ontario.

Every year more than 250,000 temporary workers come to Canada for employment under various programs within the Temporary Worker Program and industry sectors. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program represents only 25,000 and approximately 16,000 are in Ontario. The victims of this terrible accident were not under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.

GUELPH, ON (February 9, 2012) – The new board of directors at Grain Farmers of Ontario met for the first time this week and the 2012 Executive Committee has been chosen.

The board elected Henry Van Ankum as the new Chair of the organization to replace Don Kenny who, as the first Chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario, has completed two years of dedicated service and is congratulated by the board and staff for his many accomplishments in the position.

By Keith Currie, Executive Member, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Few Canadians give their daily food a lot of thought, that’s why on Sunday February 12, Food Freedom Day provides us with the perfect occasion to celebrate what we eat and the farmers who produce our food.

GUELPH – The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (CFFO) is committed to taking the lead on the increasingly prominent issue of animal welfare in agriculture. The organization’s Provincial Council members recently adopted an initial position statement on the issue, outlining several policy directions.

(February 1, 2012) – Winners have been selected from more than 1,600 entries in Farm & Food Care Ontario’s sixth Farm Creativity Contest, co-sponsored by Farmers Feed Cities, Ontario Agri Food Education and the Canadian National Exhibition.

January 25, 2012 (Guelph) - Embracing social media as a way of sharing information about farming and food production with the public, Farm & Food Care Ontario has launched a You Tube channel featuring 100 short videos about farming in Ontario and Canada.

Guelph, ON [January 20, 2012] – Escalating concerns about industrial wind turbines have prompted the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) to urge the province of Ontario to suspend further development until farm families and rural residents are assured that their interests are adequately protected. The OFA unveiled its strong stance in a new position statement on industrial wind turbines, released today, that will be presented to government later this month.

(January 18, 2012) – Farm & Food Care Ontario’s Board of Directors met for the first time on January 13 to approve the organization’s bylaws, set policy and choose an executive committee to lead the group through until its inaugural annual meeting on April 17, 2012.

(January 10, 2012) – Young Canadian adults got out their video cameras to capture their views on Canadian agriculture for their submissions to the first ever Farm Flicks contest, sponsored by Farm & Food Care Ontario and the Farm & Food Care Foundation.

By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

I recently attended an event where a panel of chief economists from Canada's top five banks presented their views of Canadian and global economic prospects for 2012.

December 21, 2011 (Ottawa)—Canadian Organic Growers (COG) has developed an innovative new workshop on growing organic strawberries commercially. The day long workshop is based on, and a companion to, COG’s newly released Practical Skills Handbook Growing Strawberries Organically. Two workshops are already being scheduled by COG Ottawa and COG Perth-Waterloo-Wellington for early 2012. Funding for the workshop development and delivery is thanks in part to the Agricultural Management Institute (AMI) and the Rural Association Partnership Program (RAPP) of the City of Ottawa.

November 25, 2011 Mark Wales, Alymer-area vegetable producer was recently elected president of the largest general farm organization in Canada, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). Long-time Board member and industry leader, Wales brings an extensive portfolio of experience to his new position and looks forward to bringing positive results to members in the coming year.

November 18, 2011 - Farmers across Canada were alarmed with the media reports of Prime Minister Harper’s recent decision to consider joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the potential cost to Canada’s agri-food industry. In recent trade discussions at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders Summit, Mr. Harper’s remarks were interpreted as a shift in his government’s economic and trade policies with the application to join the TPP. Media reports suggested the demise of Canada’s supply management system.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

With the world population passing the seven billion mark this week, we are once again reminded that we need to plan to support a rapidly growing population. According to the UN the global population is projected to reach nine billion by 2050. With this exponential growth, the question is how will we feed all these people? Canadian agriculture has a significant role to play – and will continue to provide safe, healthy food for our country and the rest of the world, through a sustainable food policy.

November 3, 2011
For immediate release

Prepared by Christine Schmalz for the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association

The cheerful melody and bright yellow and white markings of the Bobolink are a friendly reminder of spring for many farmers. Returning annually from their South American over-wintering site, this grassland songbird has adapted to take full advantage of the meadows and pastures provided by Ontario’s agricultural landscapes for nesting and feeding their young.

October 28, 2011 (Guelph, ON)  – The Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB) presented its annual Paul Mistele Memorial Award to Turkey Farmers of Ontario at the Harvest Gala in Guelph last night. Named for the late farm leader who founded Ontario Pork’s Donate-A-Hog program in 1998, the Paul Mistele Memorial Award recognizes agricultural partners who have shown a significant and enduring commitment to ending hunger in Ontario. 

October 20, 2011 (Ottawa, Ontario): The National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) is on the right track to help build consumer trust and to promote continuous improvement for farm animal care. This message was reinforced several times by presenters at NFACC’s conference, October 5th and 6th. Bringing a broad spectrum of groups together at one table to share information and collaborate to advance farm animal care and welfare is proving to be a winning strategy.

October 13, 2011 - GUELPH, Ont. – The International Goat Symposium banquet will be the stage for the first annual “Goat Farmer of the Year” award. Ontario Goat is delighted to introduce an award to recognize the hard working farmers in the goat industry.

October 7, 2011 - Our recent provincial election reminded Ontarians how fortunate we are to live in a free, democratic province and country. And at least 37,000 Ontarians had agriculture on their mind when they voted.

October 7, 2011 - MONKTON, ONTARIO  The Harvest for Hunger was everything the organizers hoped for as a fundraiser for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. In addition 160 acres of cash crops were harvested in record time but not quite in the target time the organizers had set for themselves.

OFA Commentary - October 3, 2011 - If you raise livestock or poultry in Ontario, you know your operation is governed by the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) Act. The Act includes national codes of practices to determine normal farm practices for the care and handling of farm animals. And there are currently 13 different codes of practice for livestock and poultry, and one for animal transportation.

[Guelph/Burlington, ON] –Discover Agriculture in the City, a two-day festival of food and farming, is coming to the Burlington Mall October 1 & 2, 2011. 

September 23, 2011 (Guelph, ON) – In collaboration with the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI), the Ontario Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) has committed to the development and implementation of a pilot program to recruit and retain a group of visionary organization leaders who are capable of moving the Ontario beef industry forward. This pilot program will increase the leadership skills of existing or potential organization leaders, enhance the credibility of the association and better prepare leaders to move the industry forward in times of change or challenge.

September 23, 2011 - Some of the most important regulations in place in Canada and Ontario govern the food we eat. Food production, inspection and processing regulations are enforced to ensure the safety and nutrition of our food, something consumers trust and rely on. However, recent media report uncovered the need to update and step up enforcement of some of Canada’s food and inspection regulations.

Guelph, Ontario, September 22, 2011-  Registrations are now being accepted for the 2011 International Goat Symposium (IGS) being organized by Ontario Goat (OG).  The IGS runs from November 2nd and 3rd at the Orangeville Fairgrounds and November 4th-6th at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (RAWF) in Toronto.

Saskatoon, SK., September 21, 2011: “Leaving a positive impact on the field of ethology, animal welfare in general, the industry and society” that is how Dr. Harold Gonyou was introduced during his recent induction as an Honorary Fellow of the ISAE (International Society for Applied Ethology) at their annual meeting in Indianapolis in August. The Society was hosting their 45th international conference, an important event in meeting their mission to provide a “forum for the presentation and discussion of advances in applied animal behaviour science and education, and inspires further innovations…”

For immediate release

Guelph, ON [September 15, 2011] – If you’re a new Ontario farmer, don’t miss out on your eligibility for the Farm Property Tax Class Rate for the 2012 tax year. Join the Ontario Federation of Agriculture before September 30, 2011.

At its core, agriculture provides the food, fuel and fibre we all need to survive. And as the agriculture and food industry continues to innovate and diversify, there is a growing trend to use crop production to generate energy. This shift to green energy options, from the products of primary production, is no real surprise - farmers have always been resourceful and committed to protecting the environment.

September 2, 2011 - The OPC Pork Industry Leadership Award is awarded to an individual who has given freely of his/her time and provided distinguished service to the Ontario Pork Industry.  This Award is open to research, extension, education and industry personnel involved in any facet of pork production, promotion and marketing. Nominations will be accepted from individuals, companies or organizations.

September 2, 2011 - We’re all affected by regulations every day. Whether it’s a farmer applying for municipal water access or a renovation permit for a local downtown store, every industry is governed, in part, by regulations. Some regulations ensure healthy waterways and safety standards, others may be outdated or create unnecessary restrictions and time delays.

Guelph, ON [September 1, 2011] – Outstanding volunteers will receive special recognition by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) with the announcement of the organization’s 75th anniversary celebration awards. Nominations are now being accepted at each county and regional federation of agriculture office for OFA members who work diligently to promote agriculture, lobby on behalf of farmers and raise awareness of agricultural issues.

(Guelph) August 31, 2011 – An amalgamation of two Ontario agricultural coalitions will become the first of its kind in Canada, bringing together the crops, horticulture and livestock sectors.  The amalgamation will result in the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment (AGCare) becoming one new, yet-unnamed organization.  This new group will be launched January 1, 2012 after an overwhelming vote of endorsement and support by their memberships at a special meeting on August 26, 2011. 

Guelph, ON [August 29, 2011] – The  Ontario government’s Open for Business strategy marks a productive, collaborative effort between the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) that has already reduced regulatory burdens on the agri-food industry by 28 per cent.

August 26, 2011 - Agriculture provides many of the opportunities available to generate alternative sources of energy. Harnessing energy through wind turbines is one of the options for producing green energy that will contribute to a secure, reliable source for future generations. The ongoing development of off-shore wind turbines in Ontario has been a contentious issue, raising questions about the technology’s merits and concerns.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Key politicians from each of the three provincial parties confirmed this week that agriculture is a priority in each of their election platforms for the upcoming provincial election.

August 19, 2011 - CFFO Commentary

At this point in the summer, most of the wheat crop throughout much of Ontario has been harvested and it seems that this year will be a good one for many farmers. Meanwhile, there are regions of the world, such as the Horn of Africa, that are not experiencing the same bounty that we are. As a Christian organization, the CFFO wants to encourage farmers and the public at large to take the opportunity to help those in need by giving of our resources.

(Ottawa) 09 August 2011 – The National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) is pleased to announce the review and update of the Code of Practice for chickens, turkeys and breeders will begin in October. The Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC), Chicken Farmers of Canada (CFC), Canadian Hatching Egg Producers (CHEP) and Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors Council (CPEPC) have requested NFACC initiate the review of their Code. The review and any subsequent changes will be guided by the NFACC’s Code development process.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Make your voice heard on October 6. That’s what the Ontario Federation of Agriculture is asking each if its 37,000 members to do by participating in the upcoming provincial election.

Every Ontario farmer produces enough food to feed 120 people each year. The risks may be high, but Ontario farmers are proud of their essential role in feeding their neighbours and the economy.

GUELPH, ON (July 25, 2011) – Grain Farmers of Ontario is pleased to announce that John Cowan will become the new Vice President of Strategic Development.

Agriculture by nature is a volatile business. Farmers are faced with risk in almost every part of their business from the weather to market fluctuations. That’s why business risk management programs are critical to the profitability and success of all Ontario farmers.

Feeding a Hungry World: A Summit for Animal Agriculture
Summit to explore the future of Animal Agriculture in Canada

For Immediate Release -  (Guelph) July 18, 2011 – Agri-food industry leaders from across Canada have been inspired to come together to organize the first Feeding a Hungry World: A Summit for Animal Agriculture this October.

By Mark Wales, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

July 15, 2011 - A choice to live and work in rural Ontario shouldn’t limit our access to the same range and level of services our urban counterparts enjoy. Ontario’s rural infrastructure is made up of basic services like health care, education and capital investments in road and bridge maintenance. Unfortunately our rural areas don’t always receive the same attention our urban neighbours do when it comes to services like emergency trauma centres, reliable internet services or road maintenance.  

(Guelph, ON)  The selection of thirty individuals to participate in the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Class 14 was recently made by the AALP advisory committee, a working group of the board of directors of the Rural Ontario Institute. These current and emerging leaders within Ontario’s agriculture, agri-food and rural sectors will embark on their AALP leadership journey on September 25, 2011 when they meet for their first seminar in Cambridge, Ontario. 

June 29, 2011 - Guelph, ON.  Congratulations to the 2010 Ontario Forage Master, Evert Veldhuizen Jr, who has placed second in the National Forage Spokesperson Competition, hosted by the American Forage and Grassland Council. “I was very pleased to hear of Evert’s success at the AFGC’s National Forage Speaker’s competition.  Evert’s complete knowledge of his presentation along with his relaxed delivery was sure to help him connect with his audience.  OSCIA was proud to have Evert represent Ontario at this high-profile event,” says Max Kaiser, President of the Ontario Soil and Crop Association (OSCIA).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2011 – Guelph, ON – Today, leaders of Ontario’s beef and pork industries welcomed the unveiling of the Ontario government’s new permanent, multi-commodity, Risk Management Insurance Program (RMP) for grain and oilseed, cattle, hog, veal, edible horticulture and sheep farmers.

Guelph, ON [June 28, 2011] - What can you do better? What can you do smarter? What will you do differently tomorrow?  These were the questions Peter Kenyon posed to more than 250 leaders from rural organizations and communities during a series of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) workshops presented throughout Ontario by the Rural Ontario Institute.  Using his wit and wisdom, along with a number of inspiring stories from his travels and experiences, Kenyon explained the simple principles of the ABCD approach.

MEDIA ADVISORY – GUELPH, ON (June 14, 2011)

What: Food vs Fuel; The debate is over Real Solutions for the Environment, World Hunger and Fuel Alternatives

Who: Presentation by Dr. Terry Daynard and hosted by Grain Farmers of Ontario

When: Thursday, June 16, 2011 from 8:00 – 9:30 am

(Guelph) June 13, 2011 – A sold out program organized by the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and AGCare resulted in 45 Toronto-area food reporters and other food experts travelling by bus to visit farms in Perth County on June 2. Participants came from a wide variety of publications and media outlets including the Toronto Sun, Toronto Star, Kraft Canada and Food and Drink magazine as well as many cookbook authors, professional Home Economists, chefs, bloggers, recipe developers and freelance writers in the Toronto area.

June 1, 2011 (Guelph, ON) – Representatives of the Ontario Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) Board of Directors were in Toronto yesterday for their 8th Annual Queen’s Park Barbecue held on the south lawn of the Ontario Legislature, an annual event that has become one of the most highly anticipated events by MPPs and their staff.  The barbecue provided a fantastic opportunity for the OCA Board of Directors to meet with Members of Provincial Parliament and to thank them for their support for the establishment of the recently announced Risk Management Insurance Program for Ontario farmers.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Food seems to be on everybody’s mind. Consumers are becoming more interested in where their food comes from, and the safety and security of our food supply. As farmers we know how fortunate Canada is to have safe, nutritious and inexpensive food. And we are just as interested as our urban neighbours about the security of the Canadian food system.

May 26, 2011 Guelph ON – A new study shows that energy saving initiatives by farmers in Ontario’s Greenbelt are conserving enough energy to power 1,788 homes annually. And on-farm solar panel installations in the Greenbelt are generating enough electricity for an additional 170 homes, says the report completed by engineering consulting firm Agviro, Inc. 

May 19, 2011 - Ontario Federation of Agriculture Commentary
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture knows that maintaining an open line of communication with the federal government – particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – is important to ensure issues facing Ontario farmers are heard, understood and considered. After all, we all share a common interest in securing a sustainable future for farmers in Ontario and across Canada.

May 20, 2011 - CFFO commentary

Farming is changing. And it’s not just changing in the scale of operations we now have, or the increasingly diverse markets we now supply. It’s also changing in how we view the vocation of farming and how it connects to rural communities and our fellow farmers. Simply put, our emphasis on the business of farming now often overshadows other dimensions to farming that we used to take for granted.

Ontario Federation of Agriculture Commentary
Date: May 12, 2011

Working with government on regulatory reform

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Everyone who lives and works in Ontario is governed by regulations. Regulations ensure we have safe drinking water, a robust healthcare system and our environment is preserved for future generations. Because we own land and produce food, farming and the agri-food sector is a heavily regulated industry.

When the Ontario government took a hard look at regulations and regulatory processes last fall, as part of its Open for Business initiative, OFA was there. The Open for Business initiative set out to identify regulations that unnecessarily hinder or restrict profitability within the agriculture and agri-food sector. OFA was asked to lead the consultations with the farm and agri-food sector across the province. With a history of advocating for well crafted regulations that avoid unintended consequences to the farming and agri-food sector, we were happy to do so.

After an extensive consultative process, OFA responded with a list of priority issues to protect the public interest while encouraging sustainable development across the food chain.

Our concerns and recommendations were heard by the provincial government. Each priority issue was presented, reviewed and accepted. Our priorities will now be considered by government ministries when establishing new regulations and reviewing existing regulations. These outcomes will help farmers, agri-food businesses and the entire agricultural value chain by reducing unnecessary barriers and outdated regulations while maintaining the integrity of our industry.

We are very pleased with the results and our role in speaking on behalf of farmers across Ontario. OFA’s regulatory priorities in the Open for Business initiative have resulted in a number of processes Ontario Ministries will implement in regulatory development and delivery.

The result for Ontario producers and agri-food companies includes the following key outcomes:
• Agriculture and agri-food sectors affected by new regulations will be consulted early and often during the drafting process
• Existing regulations that no longer meet legislative objectives or accommodate new technology will be reviewed on a regular basis
• All provincial ministries will work together to ensure consistent and accurate interpretation of regulations by inspection and enforcement officers 
• Service standards will be streamlined for licensing, permitting and approvals processes such as certificates of approval and reduced ‘red tape’ on drainage approvals
• Regulatory compliance incentives will be considered as a substitute to regulations or enforcement

Some of these results from OFA’s consulting role in the Open for Business initiative mean farmers and the agri-food sector can look forward to seeing measureable improvements in the time that it takes for government agencies to process applications for water taking permits, certificates of approval for installation of new equipment and technologies, and municipal drain maintenance.

The Open for Business initiative demonstrates how positive change can take place quickly when industry and government work together with a common purpose. Our thanks go to colleagues in the agri-food sector for working closely with us to produce tangible results. We also congratulate the Ontario government for initiating real regulatory reform in our sector. We look forward to continuing to work with our government colleagues to ensure that the regulatory framework protects both the public and private interests of Ontarians.

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www.ofa.on.ca

By Mark Wales, Vice President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture

May 6, 2011 - On April 29, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled against allowing exclusive representation for farm workers. Eight out of the nine judges supported this decision. This is welcome news for the entire agriculture sector in Ontario and our provincial leaders should be applauded for vigorously defending this legislation. It brings certainty and closure to what has been a very long struggle.

By Bette Jean Crews, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture

April 27, 2011 - Our farmers are truly stewards of the environment – we contribute to the identification of sustainable farming practices, provide habitats and food for wildlife and endangered species, preserve the rural landscape, protect groundwater recharge areas and carbon sequestration through the careful use of our agricultural lands.

New and beginning farmers are the future of the farming industry. That’s why OFA is making the case for the adoption of specific measures that will ease entry for beginning farmers as part of our top agricultural priorities for the next federal government. 

(Guelph) April 19, 2011 – A top prize of $500 is up for grabs in a contest to name the new organization that will take effect when the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment (AGCare) join forces.

Guelph ON, April 19, 2011 – Two new multi-species reports have identified biosecurity gaps in Ontario’s beef, veal, goat, sheep and rabbit sectors. The reports pin-pointed areas where farmers and supply chain partners can improve their processes, equipment or buildings to help prevent disease and keep losses to a minimum.

April 15, 2011 - The federal party agriculture leaders met this week to debate the key farm issues in the upcoming federal election. Among those issues was a strategy for Canada’s food. Each of the leaders – regardless of party – acknowledged the need to create a national strategy for Canadian food. 

Another federal election is upon us. While some question the need for an election so soon, it is our democratic opportunity to make our individual voices heard. There are serious issues for farmers and rural Ontario as voters head to the ballot box on election-day.

April 13, 2011 - Time and again, when I talk with both farmers and consumers about local food and supporting farmers, I am asked why we have such a poor labelling system for food grown and produced in Canada.

The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario has had a number of long, focused conversations about the role of Genetically Modified Organisms in agriculture. It’s a lightning rod of an issue, with most people either being for or against the use of the technology. Few individuals or groups seem to be comfortable being somewhere in the middle.

April 11, 2011 - A group of farmers want to set a world record by harvesting 160 acres of soybeans in well under 10 minutes on a farm in Perth County.

(Guelph) April 5, 2011 – A proposed amalgamation of two Ontario agricultural coalitions took a significant step forward yesterday with a vote at the joint annual meeting of the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment (AGCare).

April 5, 2011 - Fred Cahill, or Cowboy Fred as he is better known, of the Texas Longhorn Ranch near Kerwood was presented with the Friend of OFAC award on April 5 in Guelph at the joint annual general meeting for the Ontario Farm Animal Council and Agricultural Groups Concerned About Resources and the Environment (AGCare).  Unaware that he had been nominated, Cahill was presented the award by Bruce Christie, Past Chair of OFAC.

[April 1, 2011] - The hard work of the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Coalition has finally produced positive results. As many people know, the 2011 provincial budget was announced this week and farmers received the eagerly anticipated news that new types of Business Risk Management programming are coming for many Ontario Farmers.

March 31, 2011 - Ontario rabbit producers will have the opportunity to hear from an array of guest speakers to help them gain insight and knowledge at the Joint Annual General Meetings & Producer Education Day on Friday April 8, 2011 at the Ancaster Fairgrounds.

(Guelph ON, March 29, 2011) – The establishment of a risk management program (RMP) was the single most important action the provincial government could have taken in today’s budget, say farmers representing the Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition (OASC). The new program will help ensure the economic success of Ontario’s non-supply managed commodities, which include beef, pork, veal, lamb, fruits, vegetables and grains and oilseeds.

At a recent provincial meeting of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario, a guest speaker challenged our members to keep in mind that all public policies are aimed at particular goals and outcomes, based on an understanding of what we value in life. I think it’s an important piece of advice and one that needs to be kept front and centre when we create and debate new laws and regulations for farming.

At a recent provincial meeting of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario, a guest speaker challenged our members to keep in mind that all public policies are aimed at particular goals and outcomes, based on an understanding of what we value in life. I think it’s an important piece of advice and one that needs to be kept front and centre when we create and debate new laws and regulations for farming.

Guelph, March 24, 2011 - Ontario’s veal producers will tackle the big picture issues impacting veal production in Ontario as part of their speaker program at the upcoming Annual General Meeting & Producer Education Day on Friday April 8, 2011.

GUELPH, ONTARIO –The Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and its sister group Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment (AGCare), are pleased to welcome renowned speaker Charlie Arnot to Ontario in April when he serves as the keynote speaker at a day-long program hosted by the two groups on April 5, 2011 in Guelph.

[March 22, 2011] - Bayfield, Ontario – The Rural Social Enterprise Project (RSEP), a collaborative effort of the Foundation for Rural Living, Eko Nomos, and C. Lang Consulting, was launched here today at Huron County’s Community Conference.

(Ottawa) 21 March 2011 - The Canadian Sheep Federation (CSF) is pleased to announce the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Sheep is being updated through the National Farm Animal Care Council’s (NFACC) Code of Practice development process.

[March 18, 2011] - MP Frank Valeriote recently held a public discussion on Genetically Modified Organisms in Guelph. The panel represented a wide diversity of opinion with many valid points raised by the knowledgeable presenters. The discussion highlighted the potential benefits and threats represented by GM crops.

[March 11, 2011] - The CFFO Seminar Series, Enough is Enough, has hit the road and farmers across the province are talking about the role of regulations in their farming businesses. Bobolinks and Green Energy are two of the biggest “flash points” in the discussions to date but there’s also an underlying sense that the government’s consultative approach to public policy development needs revision. In short, public policy development needs a far more thorough consultation process that focuses on “on the ground” implementation and not only broadly-based societal goals.

March 11, 2011 - The Ontario government recently released a discussion paper on a new Agriculture-Wildlife Conflict Strategy through the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of Natural Resources. The province is seeking input on the Strategy through the Environmental Registry Program online now through April 11th.

February 28, 2011 - The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) congress comes to Canada in September 2011 and agricultural communicators are encouraged to join their colleagues from around the world beginning September 14. Registration is now open at www.ifaj2011.com.

March 9, 2011
For immediate release

Growing Your Farm Profits Workshop Leads to Business Success

Are your business goals the same as your personal goals?
Do you find it hard to balance farm life with family life?
Do you know where you want to be in five years?

GUELPH, ON   March 7, 2011   The Ontario Independent Meat Processors (OIMP) celebrated member accomplishments and excellence at its31st annual conference The Meating Place in Toronto this past weekend. More than 250 industry guests, including OIMP members, suppliers, and representatives from government and key industry organizations attended OIMP s Awards Gala Saturday night.

By Bette Jean Crews, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture

March 4, 2011 - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) released three reports this week about the future of Canada’s agriculture sector. In them, AAFC provides a positive outlook for the sector, with higher than expected net farm incomes projected for 2010.

[February 18, 2011] - I’m a firm believer in paying attention to the lessons of history. With that in mind, I took great interest in some speeches from past CFFO leaders that our staff recently uncovered when searching through the organization’s archives. And it’s led me to ask, “Have we learned anything from history?”

GUELPH, ON (February 15, 2011) – Grain farmers in Ontario will have lots to celebrate at this year’s GFO March Classic on March 21st. Grain prices, sector growth and optimism are making agriculture a key industry for the province. Our success has inspired the theme for this year’s conference: ‘Agriculture – Ontario’s Economic Superpower’.

February 11, 2011 - Food prices are on the rise around the world. Some countries have predicted that the rise in food prices will bring food shortages for future generations, and protests have ignited over the higher costs for food.

[February 4, 2011] - A recent Water Innovation Forum focused on the importance of water for agriculture and food. The people of Ontario are blessed with tremendous access to fresh water and this has instilled the belief that we live in an area of water abundance. The reality is that while there is a considerable amount of water available for use, wise stewardship of this resource is needed to ensure that we do not create a “Tragedy of the Commons” with our water resources.

Guelph ON, January 26, 2011 – Ontario’s horticulture farmers have banded together with the provincial government again this year to bring healthy fruit and vegetable snacks to school children in Northern Ontario. The Northern School Snack Program has launched its 19 week program at 110 elementary schools.

Guelph, January 25, 2011 – New technologies and the latest research developments in the field of agricultural irrigation will be the focus of an upcoming Ontario conference. The three day Ontario Agricultural Irrigation Conference will feature a drip irrigation course, presentations by irrigation experts and assistance with the Permit To Take Water program, as well as a trade show.

January 21, 2011 – (STRATFORD, ON) The Ontario Pork Industry Council (OPIC) is pleased to announce that all pledges from the 2011 Hog Jog will be going to National Service Dogs Training Center – to be used specifically for the training of Certified Service Dogs for children & families living with autism.  The 6th annual charity run/walk will be held the evening of Tuesday, June 21st at the Stratford Rotary Complex. 

By Keith Currie, Executive Member of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture

January 21, 2011 - The Ontario government has proposed an amendment to the Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Management Plan to provide new urban growth opportunities in South Simcoe County. This proposition would impose new land use legislation to re-designate 1,800 acres of prime agricultural and environmentally sensitive lands for the purpose of urban growth.

[January 21, 2011] - At a recent policy conference on the future of food and farming, Robert Thompson of the University of Illinois painted the big picture for agriculture worldwide over the next 40 years. There are huge factors that are shaping the future of food that have created an array of challenges and opportunities for agriculture.

GUELPH, ON (January 10, 2011) –On January 10th, GFO launched an updated version of www.gfo.ca. With an improved user interface, simplified navigation, and personal interactive elements, the site will better serve farmer members.

[January 7, 2011] - Canada has some strict rules regarding truth in advertising. Advertisers are expected to tell the truth about their products and refrain from misleading the buying public. There are consequences for failing to do so. That leads to several questions about whether labels, and the information they contain, should qualify as advertisements. I would argue that labels and advertisements should be held to the same standard regarding accuracy and truthfulness. And I believe that’s particularly important for identifying where food is grown.

INGERSOLL, ON (December 14, 2010) – Winners of the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) Soybean Yield Challenge were announced today at a banquet in Ingersoll. The three finalists for each of three provincial soybean maturity zone received prizes, for a total of nine winners.

GUELPH, ON   December 14, 2010   Ontario Independent Meat Processors (OIMP) officially issued a call for entries today for the 2011 Ontario Finest Meat Competition. Searching for the best Ontario processed meat and poultry products, it promises to be an exciting contest with new categories being introduced and a stellar roster of knowledgeable, influential judges including retail buyers, media, chefs and home economists.

MEDIA ADVISORY – INGERSOLL, ON (December 14, 2010)

[December 10, 2010] - There is general agreement in the farm community that a number of our commodities are in serious financial difficulty and face an uncertain future. There is also general agreement on why family farms in those sectors are facing such difficulties. Where there is less agreement is “how do we solve those problems and turn these sectors around?”

Guelph, December 3, 2010 – “Pork Production: A Local and Global Perspective” is the title of this year’s Shakespeare Swine Seminar at the Shakespeare Community Centre on December 15.  The day long seminar is an education event for hog producers and allied industry personnel that features local and international speakers on topics of importance to the swine industry.

Guelph, December 6, 2010 – Ontario Pork has successfully met the deadline for open marketing.  The commodity organization has divided into two separate divisions – Ontario Pork Universal Services and Ontario Pork Marketing Division.  As per the directive from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario Pork had until Saturday, December 4, 2010 to comply with the marketing and governance changes as outlined in her May 13th decision.  Hog producers are now free to choose to sell their hogs directly to buyers or through an intermediary such as the Ontario Pork Marketing Division.  

[December 3, 2010] - There are some industry leaders that would argue that one of the greatest opportunities for farmers in the next 20 years will be the development of the bio-products sector. At a recent information session held by the Wellington district of the CFFO, Gord Surgeoner of Ontario Agri-food Technologies shared some his insights into the tremendous opportunities that Ontario agriculture has the potential to seize in the very near future.

[November 26, 2010] - The next Growing Forward agreement is starting to loom on the distant horizon and farm groups are developing new options that differ from the current program. James Rude of the Department of Rural Economy at the University of Alberta was recently in Guelph to share his insights into Canadian Business Risk Management Programs, and what the key priorities are for government and farmers.

November 23, 2010 – TORONTO, ON – This morning, the Hon. Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, called for a need to reduce regulatory burdens in agriculture in order to ensure a successful industry for the future. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) welcomed Minister Mitchell as a guest speaker at its annual general meeting and convention, held in Toronto November 21-23.

GUELPH, ON (November 23, 2010) – Today marks the official launch of Ontario Cattlemen’s Association and Ontario Pork’s joint campaign in support of a risk management program (RMP) for the beef and pork industries.  Beef and pork farmers are striving to educate politicians and enlist the Provincial and Federal governments to partner with them in establishing insurance programs similar to the successful pilot program recently implemented by the Ontario Government for the Grains and Oilseeds industry.   

[November 19, 2010] By the year 2050, there will be nine billion people on the planet, creating a huge need for sufficient calories and adequate nutrition. The speakers’ program of the annual convention of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario recently discussed the wide-ranging issues involved in feeding this emerging huge population, with a keen eye directed towards the impacts for Canadian family farms.

 Can you picture it?

 Now picture yourself at the 2012 Dream Auction Fundraising Gala in support of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP).  A gala event truly worthy of having a red carpet.  A gala where Ontario’s agricultural leaders, the cream of the crop, come out to support the future leaders of our great industry.

November 16, 2010 - Due to popular demand and a gruelingly busy season, the Building the Foundation 2010: Dairy and Veal Healthy Calf Conference is extending the Early Bird Deadline until this Friday November 19th. Do not miss out on the early bird pricing – visit www.calfcare.ca for more information and the registration form.

[November 12, 2010] - As anyone who plays a lot of games knows, having a plan is essential to success. Whether one is playing a sport, a board game or a video game, having that plan of action greatly increases the chance of winning. This is also true in the business world where having a plan makes a huge difference between success and failure. The agriculture sector is no different. The CFFO has developed what it believes are the essential goals of a food strategy for Ontario.

Guelph, ON - The Ontario Feeder Cattle Co-operative Program recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a gathering in Tavistock, Ontario.  “We never envisioned that the program would grow to the size it is today.  Success of the program for the next 20 years will be a result of diligent directors and staff, the management and honesty of the members and the support of the lenders, sales barns, dealers, packers and everyone involved,” said Cheryl Russwurm, Program Supervisor.

Guelph, Ontario, November 6, 2010 – The farm gates are “virtually” open on a series of new online farm tours being launched today.  Online visitors can meet real Ontario farmers and tour real farms that grow grain, field vegetables, fruit and greenhouse vegetables - without putting their boots on.  The project is part of ongoing efforts to help connect consumers to farmers and how their food is produced.

TORONTO, November 3, 2010 – Be a guest at your own holiday party this year by hosting a buffet-style dinner. It is a great alternative to a formal sit-down dinner, which can often be stressful to manage. Alternately, buffet entertaining maximizes your time, budget and energy because it provides a variety of options when catering to a large group of people. According to cookbook author and professional home economist, Jennifer MacKenzie, buffets allow hosts to relax and enjoy their own party.

November 1, 2010 - What questions do Canadians ask about our food supply and farming practices? 

• How are farm animals raised on today’s farms?
• Are there hormones or antibiotics in our food?
• How does food production impact our environment?
• What does organically-grown food really mean?
• What effects do farming practices have on our health?

The answers to all these questions – and many more – about food and farming in Canada can be found in the new booklet, ”The ‘Real’ Dirt on Farming 11 – The People in Canadian Agriculture Answer your Questions”.

October 29, 2010 - On October 25th, Ontarians cast their ballots in the municipal elections to elect new and returning leaders in cities and towns across the province.  These municipal leaders will be shaping our communities and business environment for the next four years.

The Ontario Veal Association (OVA) is hosting its fourth bi-annual Building the Foundation 2010: Dairy and Veal Healthy Calf Conference, at the Stratford Rotary Complex on Wednesday, December 8th from 8:30am – 3:30pm. The day promises an amazing line up of speakers and tradeshow participants all for Ontario dairy and veal producers.

Guelph, ON [October 26, 2010] – Canada’s most charismatic and influential soldier, General Rick Hillier, is the featured speaker at the 2011 Wm. A. Stewart Lecture & Reception on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 7 p.m. at the London Convention Centre in London, Ontario. 

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture was selected by the Ontario government under the Open for Business initiative to work with the agriculture and agri-food sector to identify our industry’s top five regulatory issues affecting our business.

Guelph, October 22, 2010 – A new charitable foundation that will support food and farming outreach programs was launched in Guelph yesterday. The Farm Care Foundation, an initiative of AGCare and the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC), will focus its activities on public trust and confidence in food and farming.

October 14, 2010 (Guelph, ON) -  A unique celebration of Ontario food and the people who make it happen will take place at the third annual Harvest Gala on Thursday, October 21st.  The Harvest Gala provides a rare opportunity to celebrate farming, farmers and their efforts to help others less fortunate through their work with the Ontario Association of Food Banks. 

Many Ontarians are questioning the benefits of time-of-use as the province moves toward smart meters and time-of-use billing. While there’s no question that hydro bills are on the rise, identifying all of the causes for hydro increases is key in better understanding how time-of-use meters will impact your hydro bill.

October 6, 2010 - [Guelph, ON] –Samples of roasted elk on a potato kugel set the stage for the first “Discover Agriculture in the City” event, held Oct. 1 to 3 at the Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga.  Using fresh, local products, Chef Brad Long of Veritas Restaurant in Toronto showcased exactly how delicious Ontario grown products are at the event’s opening ceremony.

October 8, 2010 - Did you know Ontario’s agriculture sector supports 164,000 jobs with over $7 billion in wages and salaries? A full $3.4 billion in government tax revenues are collected as a result of the economic activity generated by the farm output sector.  This helps pay for our health care system, our schools and our infrastructure.  Farm outputs contributed $22 billion in gross economic stimulus to Ontario in 2009.  

[Guelph, ON] – Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion will be at the Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga on Oct. 1 at 1:30 p.m. to officially open ‘Discover Agriculture in City.’ Following the opening ceremonies, Mayor McCallion will participate in a cooking demonstration at the event.

September 9, 2010 - Members of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture will receive a letter outlining what’s on OFA’s worksheet for the next few months.

Topping the list of items on the letter will be a message about OFA’s success on the microFIT issue – getting government to stick with its original price of 80.2 cents per kWh for solar generators. It is estimated this will encourage an investment in rural Ontario in excess of $1.6 billion.

The Grain Farmers of Ontario Annual Meeting will be held this Thursday, September 9, 2010 at the Delta Hotel, 50 Stone Road West, Guelph Ontario.

September 8, 2010 (Guelph, ON) - The third annual Ontario Harvest Gala, hosted by the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC), will be held on Thursday, October 21 in Guelph. Each year, farmers and others working in agriculture meet at the event to celebrate Ontario’s bounty.

August 13, 2010 - Ontario’s goat industry received a significant investment today with the announcement of just over $700,000 in funding towards the implementation of a goat genetic improvement program. GoGen is an integrated goat genetic improvement program that incorporates the use of milk recording, classification, registration, genetic evaluation, assessment of artificial insemination use and young sire  testing and development of on-farm health protocols.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

August 12, 2010 - For decades, Canada’s prison farm system has been instilling some worthwhile life skills in individuals as they spend time at the institutions.

July 30, 2010 - World scientists are coming out in agreement that global warming is a fact and action needs to be taken sooner than later to slow the process.

July 23, 2010 - Farmers must make their voices heard as changes in agriculture accelerate. This was the key message for twenty eight emerging Ontario agriculture-sector leaders on their ten day journey through five Northeastern states visiting innovative farms, and hearing from government officials and researchers.

July 5, 2010 - Sheep producers can look forward to enhance genetic improvement services as a result of a $275,000 investment by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

July 9, 2010 - Faced with a 27 per cent cut in price on a contract with the Ontario Government for the production of green energy, Ontario farmers question the management of the program and the intent of the government on green energy.

Guelph, ON [June 30, 2010] – Demonstrating his commitment to rural Canada and his party’s commitment to tackling the rural-urban divide, Frank Valeriote, Member of Parliament for Guelph paid a visit to the offices of the recently formed Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) on Monday, June 28, 2010. Valeriote is a member of the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

That’s not always the case. Our provincial and federal governments have given the country proof that speedy action is possible, at least if Native Canadians and the G8 and G20 summits are part of the mix.

June 14, 2010 - Summer is known by most people as the time when farmers are busiest planting, growing and harvesting crops in their fields. There’s another responsibility many farmers will be working on over the next few months – working the fields of politics, seeking ways to improve the business environment for farming in Ontario.

May 28, 2010 - Several decades ago, farmers were encouraged to expand their operations – get bigger – if they wanted to survive. Government officials provided statistics showing the importance of larger, more efficient operations.

Guelph, ON [April 19, 2010] – Ontario PC Leader Tim Hudak demonstrated his commitment to rural Ontario by meeting with key members of the recently formed Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) last week. With a mandate to provide a voice and leadership for a strong and vibrant rural Ontario, ROI was officially launched April 1, 2010. 

GUELPH, ON (April 15, 2010) – Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) is greatly disappointed with the result of the second reading of bill C-474 last night. The bill passed last evening with 153 voting in favour and 134 opposed. The bill now goes to the Agriculture Standing Committee for review.

April 9, 2010 - Thousands of Ontario farmers, producers of a wide variety of commodities, are seeing their economic position deteriorating. They have joined together in the Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition and are calling on the federal and provincial governments to take action to sustain their farms.

April 8, 2010 - (GUELPH, ON) – One is an event that has provided a venue for farmers and hundreds of thousands of Toronto consumers to meet and get to know each other. The other has been a tireless supporter of research and innovation benefitting farmers in this province for many decades.

Both were honoured recently by the annual Friend of OFAC award, presented this year to the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) and to Mississauga resident Brian Ellsworth.

Guelph, ON [April 1, 2010] – Accomplished leader and rural Ontario advocate Rob Black has been named as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the new Rural Ontario Institute. Well-known in the agricultural industry, Black will lead the new not-for-profit organization that officially began operations today, April 1, 2010.

April 1, 2010 - The Ontario Federation of Agriculture continues to work with government and others to develop policies and procedures to bring biomass as a source of energy from Ontario farms to Ontario society.

The Ontario Swine Health Advisory Board (OSHAB) is pleased to announce that Dr. Jane Carpenter has accepted the position of Swine Disease Control Project Coordinator (SDCPC).

Event to focus on social licenses to farm, ongoing activism campaigns, legislation affecting farmers and more

March 26, 2010 - GUELPH, ONTARIO –The Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and its sister group Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment (AGCare), are pleased to welcome renowned speaker Bruce Vincent to Ontario when he serves as the keynote speaker at a day-long program hosted by the two groups on April 8, 2010 in Guelph.

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

March 26, 2010 - Patience and perseverance sums up much of what Ontario’s budget outlook offers agriculture for the long term. As expected, there was no new funding announced in the budget, but that doesn’t mean our efforts end here.  It simply means we need to continue to fight for the prudent investments needed to pull up our rural economy and preserve local food for the future of Ontario.

March 19, 2010 - Ontario farmers will be paying close attention to what Finance Minister Duncan includes in his budget on March 25th .

We’re looking to the budget to enable necessary business risk management and other regulatory reform to support our farmers.

(Innisfail, AB – March 3, 2010)  The Canadian Nuffield Farming Scholarship Trust is accepting applications for their 2011 program. Applications are due by April 30, 2010 and forms can be downloaded from the Nuffield Canada website at http://www.nuffield.ca.

Guelph ON, March 4, 2010 – Looking to the future will be the focus of a swine industry education event at the end of the month.

The tenth annual London Swine Conference will run March 31 and April 1 at the London Convention Centre.

GUELPH, ON - March 2, 2010 - Ontario Independent Meat Processors (OIMP) recognized outstanding industry achievements and crowned the 2010 People's Choice Award winners during its 30th Anniversary Awards Banquet at The Meating Place on February 27 in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Join the Ontario Pork Industry Council as we celebrate our 10th Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at the Arden Park Hotel, Stratford from 4:00pm -10:00pm

February 26, 2010 - Partners in the Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition find themselves up against a brick wall when they turn for action to Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Hon. Gerry Ritz.

February 5, 2010 - Canadian farmers wonder why so much effort is needed to convince governments that spending on agriculture is a good investment – that investments in agriculture by governments pay dividends.

February 1, 2010 – (STRATFORD, ON) The Ontario Pork Industry Council (OPIC) is pleased to announce that all pledges from the 2010 Hog Jog will be going to The Stratford General Hospital Foundation – to be used specifically for the purchase of life-saving cardiac equipment for the new emergency unit.  The charity run/walk will be held the evening of Tuesday, June 22nd at the Stratford Rotary Complex. 

 January 29, 2010 - The route for taking agriculture’s issues to government has some new faces. I’m looking forward to working with Ontario’s new minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs, the Hon. Carol Mitchell of the Huron-Bruce riding, and want to thank Leona Dombrowsky for her dedication and effort as minister over the past four+ years.

January 29, 2010 (Guelph, ON) – The Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC) and AGCare are embarking on a new shared staffing arrangement for 2010.  Crystal Mackay, Executive Director of OFAC, will take on the responsibility as Executive Director for AGCare for the duration of 2010. 

January 21, 2010 - Ontario’s Endangered Species Act offers considerable protection for a wide variety of species at risk of becoming extinct, but farmers should be able to recover compensation for the costs they incur protecting those species.

As a farmer, what’s your number one issue?

January 8, 2010 Travelling throughout Ontario, talking to farmers provides people like me, the President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, with an abundance of thoughts on what agriculture’s top 10 issues should be.

Guelph, ON [November 24, 2009] – Two provincial organizations have merged to create the new Rural Ontario Institute, a not-for-profit organization formed to provide stronger support for key issues facing rural Ontario. The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL) and The Ontario Rural Council (TORC) will officially amalgamate on April 1, 2010 to form the Rural Ontario Institute, operating out of the Ontario AgriCentre in Guelph, ON.

November 19, 2009 (Guelph) Ontario Rabbit (OR) is pleased to announce that Dave Kabbes has been re-elected to the position of OR President at the organization’s inaugural board meeting held recently.  

November 25, 2009 - The Quebec and Ontario veal industries are celebrating a number of important milestones in the further development of the Canadian veal industry.  Representatives from Canada’s largest veal producing provinces, with over 95% of Canada’s veal production in Quebec and Ontario, have come together to create the Canadian Veal Association (CVA).

November 5, 2009 - Toronto, Ontario - Grain Farmers of Ontario have a significant presence at this year’s Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, from November 6 to 15.

Guelph, ON (November 2) – The Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB) has announced the recipients of its annual Paul Mistele Memorial Award. This year the award has been given to the partners in the Provincial Milk Program: Dairy Farmers of Ontario, the Ontario Dairy Council, and the Ontario Milk Transport Association.  The OAFB presented the recipients with the award at the 2009 Ontario’s Harvest Gala in Guelph, an event hosted by the Ontario Farm Animal Council (OFAC).

Guelph, November 4, 2009 – The Ontario Pork Board of Directors are pleased to announce the appointment of Ken Ovington as the General Manager for the organization effective November 4, 2009. 

October 23, 2009 - Guelph, Ontario –  The Foundation for Rural Living’s Rural Development Officer (RDO) Program – JCP Model in partnership with RBC was announced today. The RDO Program – JCP Model recruits and places unemployed individuals as Rural Development Officers (RDOs) with rural Community Partner organizations for up to one year.  Eligible individuals will be able to begin as early as October 26th, 2009. 

Guelph, Ontario, October 19, 2009 – The credible voices of farmers and other advocates for responsible animal care often get lost in the swirling animal welfare debate. But Canada’s farm animal councils are working to change that with a newly launched blog entitled “Let’s talk farm animals.”

October 6, 2009 - Almost one hundred alumni, supporters and friends recently joined together to celebrate the silver anniversary of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) on September 15, 2009 at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show (COFS).  AALP has been ‘growing’ leaders for 25 years!  Alumni representing each of the past classes were in attendance to reunite with fellow alumni, past staff members and to meet other program stakeholders in celebration of AALP.

October 8, 2009 - The thirteenth class of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) began their 19-month leadership journey with an intensive four-day seminar in Guelph from September 27 to 30, 2009.

September 25, 2009 - KITCHENER, ON – Ground was broken today on a new food processing institute that will go a long way in addressing skilled labour shortages in Ontario’s food and beverage processing sector.

September 11, 2009 - KITCHENER, ONTARIO—Today’s AgriProcessing funding announcement by the federal government is positive news for Ontario’s food and beverage processors, says the industry association representing more than 300 food and beverage processors across the Province.

Visitors to this year’s Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show north of Woodstock will have an opportunity to witness the growth and evolution of agriculture’s role in Canada’s energy business.

September 1, 2009 (Guelph, Ontario)  –  Ontario farmers and the Ontario Association of Food Banks have again joined forces to fight hunger over the coming year.  People in agriculture will be coming together at the second annual Harvest Gala in Guelph to celebrate Ontario’s bounty and raise funds to share that food with those in need.

August 20, 2009 (Guelph, ON) - Almost two years in development, the Ontario Farm Animal Council’s (OFAC) new interactive exhibit, FarmzOnWheelz, hits the road this week. Its first stop is the Canadian National Exhibition (the EX). Beginning August 21st, FarmzOnWheelz will be featured daily during exhibition hours. The $950,000 project is the first of its kind in Canada.

Each year, OSG sponsors one couple or individual from Ontario to take part in the American Soybean Association/Dupont Young Leader Program.  The program’s goal is to help train the next generation of leaders for the North American soybean industry.  2010 Young Leader applications are being accepted by the Ontario Soybean Growers until August 15, 2009. 

Guelph ON, July 13, 2009 – The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (OFVGA) is strengthening its focus on communications by welcoming a new member to its team. Lilian Schaer will be working part-time with OFVGA to help the organization with communications efforts.

OFA Commentary #2809

Improving cropping conditions with drainage

July 10, 2009 - By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Drainage needs and systems vary greatly across Ontario. Through the years farmers have developed drainage systems to best serve their farm’s particular needs – those particular needs are different in different areas of Ontario.

July 2, 2009 - Farmers are in the habit of dealing with tangible items –  things they can see and touch. For most of them, a day becomes worthwhile when they have planted a field of beans, helped deliver a healthy calf, filled the bulk tank with milk, or harvested a block of  orchards.

Guelph ON, June 1, 2009 - AGCare will shortly be unveiling a new staffing arrangement - one unique enough to be featured in the Globe and Mail last month. The organization is preparing to welcome its Executive Director back from maternity leave in early June, while at the same time transitioning its interim Executive Director into a new job sharing arrangement.

OFA Commentary #2009

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

May 15, 2009 - The Ontario Federation of Agriculture and commodity groups have made many advances in the past two or three years – much of it with the help of farmers across the country demanding a single voice going to governments.

May 1, 2009 - Finding rules and regulations to govern international trade and rules for the labeling of food items put on Canadian grocery shelves continues to be complicated.  The Canadian Federation of Agriculture, through its committee structure, has developed recommendations that speak to the desired changes in food labeling in Canada.

For Immediate Release April 30, 2009- MISSISSAUGA–Dairy Farmers of Ontario is launching a new program that will make it easier for new dairy farmers to get into the dairy industry in Ontario. The program will work in part by loaning quota for up to 18 years to 10 new dairy farmers each year.

Want to see one of Ontario's most progressive rabbitries?  Make plans to come to Ontario Rabbit's Annual Open House and Barn Tour being held on Saturday May 2nd, 2009 in Holstein from 11:00am to 2:00pm.

Guelph ON, April 20, 2009 – An internationally recognized conference recently focused on the fundamentals necessary to remain competitive and profitable in an increasingly challenging swine industry. More than 300 participants attended the ninth annual London Swine Conference, hosted at the London Convention Centre on April 1-2.

Guelph, April 8, 2009 – Wilma Jeffray from Grey Bruce County was elected as Chair of Ontario Pork for a one-year term at the organization’s Board of Directors meeting in Guelph yesterday. This was the first time in the 63-year history of the Board that a woman was voted in as Chair.  Together with Vice Chair, Mary-Ann Hendrikx from Middlesex, they will lead the 2009 Board of Directors. 

Reducing those losses and receiving adequate compensation for the damage has proven difficult.  It seems now, though that the Minister of Natural Resources, Donna Cansfield has stumbled on a unique solution - at least one that works for a high priced neighborhood in the Beach community of Toronto.

OFA Commentary - Ontario Finance Minister Dwight Duncan has unveiled Ontario’s new 100 billion dollar budget to try to stimulate our provincial economy back to health.  Although specific references to agriculture were few, opportunity exists within the new fiscal plans to build a stronger and more sustainable farming sector in Ontario.

March 23, 2009 - DELAWARE – Ideas to keep farming alive by getting young people started in agriculture in Ontario were shared here March 21 when close to 130 new and beginning farmers attended the summit organized by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).

Guelph ON, March 9, 2009 – A return to the fundamental principles of production will be the focus of a swine industry education event next month.

March 13, 2009 - Recent changes to the Ontario legislation that governs animal rights and people responsible for caring for animals, including farm animals, could complicate the lives of farmers.

March 12, 2009 - GUELPH, ONTARIO: A new nation-wide poll being unveiled today shows Canadians have a great deal of trust in their food and the farmers who grow that food. This, along with new strategies for farmers, illustrates how Canada’s agricultural sector can help in uncertain times – feeding Canadians in their local communities as well as feeding the growing world population.

March 5, 2009 - For almost two years, farmers have been awaiting government action on funding initiatives announced but not acted on by the federal government. In fact, between the announcement time and today, some of the money may have vanished.

For Immediate release March 3, 2009

CHATHAM, Ontario - The Seed Corn Growers of Ontario held their Annual Meeting on March 3, 2009 at the Roma Club of Leamington.

MEDIA ADVISORY: ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS,
FARM AND FOOD WRITERS

New research on food, farming and farmers unveiled at farm speakers’ forum

March 2, 2009 - GUELPH, ONTARIO – New information showing how Canadians view farming and how farmers can lead our economic recovery and feed the world will be released at a meeting in Guelph next week. 

February 27, 2008 - Ontario residents, including farmers, were given a breathe of fresh air when the Province of Ontario recently announced the Green Energy Act. Producing green energy is one of many areas where our farmers excel, and we’re anxious to get going.

February 23, 2009 - GUELPH, ON. – The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA) is pleased to announce that Dr. John Kelly has been named Vice-President, Erie Innovation and Commercialization, with a mandate to diversify the sand plains area of South Central Ontario Region (SCOR).

Guelph, ON – February 23, 2009 – From turkey kielbossa to a prime rib sausage, Ontario’s Finest Meat Competition winners were announced at a gala awards evening on February 21st, 2009 as part of the Ontario Independent Meat Processors (OIMP) annual conference.  More than 100 premium meat or poultry products were submitted for a chance to be crowned in one of twelve categories, and judging took place in January.   

By Bette Jean Crews, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Ontario Treasurer Dwight Duncan has announced March 26th for his release of the next provincial budget. That’s a few weeks later than we expected, but timed just about right for the meeting I held with OMAFRA Minister Leona Dombrowsky.

Getting effective food labeling legislation for Canadians is becoming a long, complicated and expensive process.