 By Paul Maurice, Executive Member, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Farm safety isn’t just about rules and regulations — it’s about people. It’s about keeping our families, employees, and neighbours safe while doing what we love. As farmers, we live and work in the same place, and that makes safety a 24-hour responsibility. At this time of year, many farmers are still in the midst of harvest, one of the most stressful times of the year as we race against time – and the weather – to get crops off before winter hits. Accidents can happen in a split second, but many can be prevented with awareness and preparation. Farm safety is about knowing what to do on the farm to avoid accidents and injuries – and not just during busy times like planting or harvest, but anytime you’re working with equipment or livestock. That means keeping equipment fixed and up to date, taking a break when you’re tired or fatigued, and not cutting corners when you’re in a rush. When working, shut down equipment before making adjustments or dislodging a blockage, keep safety guards in place and don’t let kids play around work sites or near equipment. Have a first aid kit and emergency contact numbers handy and take a charged phone with you when you head out for the day. When frustration hits because of breakdowns or long hours, take a breath, step back, and reassess before moving on. My wife and I farm together with our son just west of Penetanguishene where we raise broiler chickens and grow hay and field crops – and I’ve farmed long enough to know that not all hazards are visible. Years ago, I had a close call with silo gas, which is formed by the natural fermentation of chopped hay or corn once it’s in the silo. The gas overwhelmed me quickly, and even though I was lucky to survive, my lungs have never been the same. It’s a reminder that some of the most dangerous things on the farm can be silent and invisible. Always make sure you have proper ventilation and a backup system in place before entering a confined space. Grain trailers and storage bins can also be dangerous and it’s easy to become trapped inside – an experience often described like quicksand. If help doesn’t come in time, it can lead to suffocation. Through the Ontario Federation of Agriculture’s Revive Fund, we’ve invested in safety and extraction training for first responders, so they know how to handle these types of emergencies. Keeping kids safe on the farm is another top priority. They grow up watching and wanting to help, and that curiosity is wonderful, but it needs boundaries. Kids should know to stay back from running equipment, wear safety gear like boots and glasses, and never treat grain bins, wagons, or machinery as play areas. Livestock, too, can be unpredictable: a protective cow or ewe can react in an instant if she feels her young are threatened. Road safety is just as important, but even more at this time of year when farmers move between fields, farms and other locations to harvest crops and get them to market, processing or storage. At OFA, we have invested in road safety and slow moving vehicle awareness projects across the province. We also continually remind farmers to be cautious, courteous and safe when they’re taking equipment on the road. Check your lights, slow-moving vehicle signs, and reflective tape before heading out — especially this time of year when it’s often dark, rainy, or foggy. Mutual respect between farmers and motorists goes a long way toward preventing accidents. For motorists, patience is key: farm equipment can’t move as fast as traffic. That means only pass when it’s safe and watch out for indicator lights and slow moving vehicle signs. Finally, let’s not overlook mental health. Farming can be stressful — weather, unpredictable markets, equipment breakdowns, long days, and financial pressures all take their toll. The Farmer Wellness Initiative offers free, confidential support 24/7 at 1-866-267-6255. Taking care of your mental well-being is as vital as maintaining your equipment Farm safety is everyone’s responsibility — and it starts with awareness, preparation, and respect for both the visible and invisible risks around us. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]
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 By Louis Roesch, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Every November, farmers from across Ontario gather for one of the most important events on our calendar — the Ontario Federation of Agriculture’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). It’s a time of faith in our future and fellowship in new beginnings. From the most southern tip of the province to our northern regions, farmers young and old come together to share ideas, compare experiences, and learn from one another. Agriculture is always changing — and so are the people who drive it forward. Ontario’s geography and climate are as diverse as our farms themselves. Soil and weather conditions vary dramatically, giving us a wide range of opportunities in the food and farm products we grow, raise and produce – and for learning from each other. I’m a third-generation farmer in Chatham-Kent and director on the OFA board. Together with my family, we grow crops and raises livestock and run an on-farm retail outlet selling our own pork and eggs, as well as local Ontario beef and chicken. To me, when you can pick up one or two ideas from a conversation with another farmer — or share something that helps someone else solve a challenge — that’s what the OFA is all about: moving forward together. This year’s AGM, taking place November 25 and 26 in Toronto, promises to be another engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring event. The theme — Strength in Unity: Farms & Food Forever — reflects our shared commitment to ensuring a strong, sustainable future for Ontario agriculture and our rural communities. As farmers, we know that when we work together, our collective voice carries further and has greater impact — especially in these times of uncertainty for our economy, trade relationships, and political landscape. Every year, the program features an exciting lineup of speakers and sessions designed to keep members informed and engaged. Trade, tariffs, Canada’s evolving relationship with the United States and the shifting global order are top of mind for many this year. That’s why acclaimed political journalist and commentator Althia Raj will headline the keynote session, offering timely insights on Canada’s current political and economic landscape. Raj will explore what’s shaping national priorities, the outlook for trade negotiations, and how evolving federal policies could affect Ontario’s agriculture and food sectors. She’ll also connect the dots between Parliament Hill and rural Ontario, offering a thoughtful perspective on what’s ahead for our industry. Delegates will also hear from Dr. Tom Deans, internationally renowned author of Every Family’s Business, on the dynamics of family business and wealth transition. His talk will provide valuable insights into how families can plan for success across generations — a topic that resonates deeply in agriculture. A key part of every annual meeting is delegate debate and voting on resolutions that help shape OFA’s direction for the coming year. These resolutions come directly from members and reflect the issues affecting real farm businesses across Ontario, from land use and infrastructure to input costs, taxation, labour, and more. They also bring forward regional concerns and challenges, like the drought that affected some areas of Ontario this year, so that affected farmers are heard and can be treated fairly — because when one part of the farm community suffers, we all feel it. It’s grassroots democracy in action, and it’s one of the things that makes OFA strong and relevant to farmers of all types and sizes. Delegates will receive important organizational updates, participate in the Director-at-Large election, and hear from invited political leaders including Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Trevor Jones and Senator Rob Black. This year’s Director-at-Large nominees — Angela Field, Andy Kuyvenhoven, Mackenna Roth and Teresa Van Raay — bring a wealth of experience and dedication to the table. More information on each candidate will be shared with delegates and posted on OFA’s website and social media channels, and they’ll each also have a chance to address delegates directly in a presentation at the event. The OFA AGM is about more than just policy — it’s about people. It’s about the passion, innovation, and resilience that define Ontario’s farmers. To my fellow farmers: whether you’re attending for the first time or you’re a long-time delegate, I encourage you to join us. Your participation strengthens our federation, amplifies our collective voice, and helps shape the future of Ontario agriculture. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Drew Spoelstra, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
There’s been a lot of attention lately on the challenges facing Ontario’s auto industry. As trade tensions rise and ongoing tariffs threaten jobs and investment, the impacts on one of our province’s largest manufacturing sectors are being closely watched by government, industry and the public alike. That’s understandable: the auto sector is a longtime symbol of Ontario’s industrial strength and innovation. But while cars and trucks have long rolled off our assembly lines, another powerful economic engine has been steadily driving Ontario forward, too — our agriculture, agri-food and agri-business sectors. As a farmer and president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, it’s an industry I’m more than familiar with, but it’s time more Ontarians – and Canadians – recognized the scale, sophistication and economic importance of this sector. Agriculture, agri-food and agri-business are every bit as vital to the province’s prosperity as the automotive industry, and we can’t afford to overlook it or take it for granted. Ontario’s agri-food system, from farms and greenhouses to processors, distributors, retailers and foodservice, contributed approximately $51.4 billion to the provincial economy in 2024. That makes it one of Ontario’s top economic drivers, powering both rural and urban communities. At the heart of that system is food and beverage processing, the industrial engine that transforms Ontario-grown crops, livestock and ingredients into finished food products. In 2023, this subsector alone contributed $14.8 billion to the provincial economy, accounting for more than 15% of Ontario’s total manufacturing gross domestic product. That’s just behind motor vehicles at 16.4%, and well ahead of other major manufacturing sectors like chemicals or fabricated metals. In other words: food processing is Ontario’s second-largest manufacturing industry — and one of its most stable and resilient. From food plants in the Greater Toronto Area to bakeries, dairies and processors in small towns across the province, Ontario’s food manufacturing sector employed 116,700 people in 2023 — about 14% of all manufacturing jobs in Ontario. And when you take in the entire agri-food system, from farming to retail to restaurants, more than 867,000 Ontarians or about 10 per cent of the labour force are connected to the food value chain. Ontario also leads the country in agri-food exports, shipping $28 billion worth of products to markets around the world in 2024. Our top customer is the United States, followed by the European Union and Asia, and major export categories range from primary agricultural commodities to processed products like baked goods and prepared foods. This is a sector that thrives on innovation, entrepreneurship and global competitiveness — just like auto manufacturing. The difference is that its impact is felt in every region of Ontario, not just a few industrial hubs. As a sector, agriculture, agri-food and food processing offer economic balance and resilience. This is a sector grounded in local production but globally engaged; rooted in small businesses yet capable of scaling to export markets. Research shows that every dollar of economic activity created in food processing supports an additional $2.46 elsewhere in Ontario’s economy, through farming, packaging, transportation, logistics and retail. That’s a powerful multiplier effect — one that strengthens local economies and keeps rural Ontario vibrant. The current trade and tariff challenges around the auto sector, as well as steel, aluminum and others, remind us that economies evolve, and that governments need to plan for stability and diversity. Ontario’s agri-food and food processing sector offers exactly that: a homegrown, high-value industry with global reach and long-term potential. To fully unlock that potential, we need the same kind of attention and investment that the auto, energy, mining, steel and aluminum sectors receive. That means support for modern processing facilities, infrastructure that connects rural producers to markets, policies that encourage farm business growth and domestic value-added manufacturing, and a commitment to keeping farmland productive and protected. Agriculture and food are not just part of Ontario’s heritage — they’re the foundation of our future prosperity. As we navigate global uncertainty, let’s remember that Ontario’s ability to feed itself and the world is one of its greatest strengths. When we invest in farming and food, we’re investing in jobs, innovation, and a more resilient Ontario economy. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Bill Groeneheide, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
This week marks Small Business Week in Ontario. Spearheaded by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), it celebrates and draws attention to the vital role that small business plays in the Ontario economy. According to the OCC, small businesses – those with fewer than 100 employees – account for 98% of Canadian enterprises and employ approximately 11 million people nation-wide. That’s a lot of jobs and significant chunk of the Canadian economy, making small business a sector worth paying attention to. To succeed and grow, Ontario small businesses of all kinds need government investment in connectivity (strong trade relationships, resilient supply chains, ensuring flow of goods & services); building capacity to increasing innovation, competitiveness and growth; affordability to help address inflation, debt and rising costs for housing, inputs and labour; and sustainability (supporting continuity, longevity, investment in local economies). Beyond that, changes to taxation, as well as infrastructure investment, red tape reduction to simplify supports and services and better access to workers are also important needs. It’s no different for Ontario farmers and farm businesses. My family and I farm near Thunder Bay, where we raise poultry and beef cattle and grow produce that we sell directly to consumers and at local markets. I’m also a provincial director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), the largest organization in our province that represents farmers. We work on behalf of farmers and rural communities – and some of our biggest priority asks are around taxation, red tape reduction, infrastructure investment, access to labour and affordability. Most Ontarians don’t see farms as small businesses, but they are – even if they are different from retail, trades, suppliers or service providers. Farmers are entrepreneurs who manage budgets, make investments, hire staff, build relationships with customers and suppliers, and market their products. At our family market, our customers see that we’re a family-run business — and the small businesses we buy from and sell to in our community know it too. What’s often missing, however, is that broader public understanding that farming is both a livelihood and a business. Farmers sometimes struggle with this mindset shift too. We know how to produce food, raise livestock or grow grain crops, but we also need to sell the fruits of our labour, tell our story, and promote our products and our role in the community, from donating food to events to supporting sports teams, for example. But just like many of Ontario’s other small businesses, we face challenges that make it harder for us to grow. One of the biggest is red tape. On our farm, whenever we want to start a new project, whether it’s improving drainage or building a pond, the paperwork and many different approvals we must have in place just to start can be overwhelming. Government grants and programs are meant to help, but they’re often so complicated that it’s hard to justify the time investment for the small amount of support offered. Quite simply, if government wants small businesses, including farms, to flourish, it has to be easier to access funding, we need less not more bureaucracy and paperwork, and we need real incentives rather than regulatory or legislative roadblocks. This is particularly critical in Northern Ontario, where distances are greater, the population is less dense, and infrastructure isn’t as well developed as elsewhere in Ontario. If we want to see growth and renewal in Northern Ontario agriculture and encourage the next generation of farmers to come home and build their future here, we need simpler processes, fairer taxation, better infrastructure, and less red tape. As we celebrate Small Business Week, let’s remember that farms are part of that small business backbone. Every time you visit a local farmers’ market, buy Ontario-grown food or farm products, or support a local business, you’re helping to strengthen both our economy and our rural communities. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Ethan Wallace, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
When most people consider what could pose a risk to Ontario farm businesses, they likely think of extreme weather or commodity market fluctuations. But in today’s connected world, one of the fastest-growing risks is one we can’t see until it’s too late: cyber attacks. Cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated, and the reality is that it’s no longer a question of if you will face a cyber security problem, but when. Although I’m writing specifically from the perspective of the agriculture sector as a dairy farmer and Vice President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, all of us are at risk, regardless of where we are or what we do. From real-looking emails and spoofed phone numbers to text messages that seem legitimate, scams are harder than ever to spot. And when something goes wrong, the costs can be staggering — not just financially, but also in terms of lost time, stress, and damaged relationships with customers or suppliers. Farms and agri-businesses are particularly vulnerable to cyber security attacks. First, most farms are small, independent businesses with limited IT resources. In the last few years, we have come to rely heavily on digital systems, but few of us have the luxury of a full-time IT professional managing updates, patches, and network security. Research shows that 90% of farming systems haven’t had a software update in years, leaving the door wide open for hackers. Second, farms are increasingly connected. From automated feeding systems and environmental controls in greenhouses to mobile apps and sensors in the field, our businesses depend on a web of interconnected devices. That means a weak point anywhere in the system — an outdated password, a shared login, or an unprotected sensor — can compromise the entire farm. Finally, there’s the human factor. Many cyber incidents don’t start with a sophisticated hack but with a simple mistake: clicking a malicious link, downloading an infected file, or responding to a fraudulent email or text message. Gone are the days when phishing emails were easy to spot thanks to poor spelling or odd sender addresses. Today’s messages can look convincingly real, even mimicking colleagues, suppliers, or employees. The consequences of a cyber security problem go far beyond inconvenience. Farms have experienced:
Recovering from an attack is costly and time-consuming, and rebuilding trust can take years. The good news is that much like the steps we take to keep our livestock and healthy and free of disease, there are also things we can all do to reduce our risk. Cyber security isn’t foolproof, but every precaution helps protect your business. Here are some basics:
As farmers, we’re already experts at managing risk in so many ways. Adding cyber security to that list may feel daunting, but it’s quickly becoming just as important as insurance, maintenance, or record-keeping. Yes, it takes time and sometimes money to maintain, but the cost of ignoring it is far greater. More information is available at ofa.on.ca/resources/cyber-security. Other resources, such as free training programs, can be found here: https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/programs/tools-manage-farm-risk-and-finance/cyber-security-and-your-farming-business. To listen to a podcast from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada on cyber security in agriculture, click here. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Clint Cameron, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
This week is Ontario Agriculture Week, leading us into Thanksgiving — one of the most food-focused times of the year. It’s a perfect reminder of just how much our province has to be thankful for when it comes to agriculture and food. Ontario farmers grow and raise more than 200 different food and farm products. That’s an incredible depth and breadth of diversity that few other places in the world can match. It means we’re fortunate to enjoy a wide variety of locally grown and raised food and beverages right here at home, no matter what season it is. Ontario’s agricultural story stretches across the entire province. In northern Ontario, livestock and crop farms supply beef, pork, lamb and grains to local and regional markets. Eastern Ontario is well known for its dairy and poultry farms. Apple orchards in midwestern and central Ontario are bursting with crisp, sweet fruit at this time of year. Southern Ontario has long been the heart of fruit, vegetable, and grape production — think tender fruit in Niagara and along the Lake Erie shore, tomatoes and peppers in Chatham-Kent, greenhouses in Leamington, and the world-class wine industry those grapes support. Whether it’s maple syrup from Lanark County, wild blueberries from Sudbury, or pumpkins from Norfolk, every corner of the province contributes something unique to Ontario’s harvest. Agriculture isn’t just about what ends up on your plate, though. It’s also a powerful economic engine. Our province’s agri-food sector contributes more than $51 billion to the provincial economy every year and supports over 867,000 jobs. Farming businesses don’t stand alone — they connect to food processors, transporters, retailers, farm suppliers, equipment dealers, and countless others. That’s why we like to say that everyone in Ontario is part of agriculture. You might not milk cows or drive a tractor, but if you work in a food plant, drive a truck, stock grocery store shelves, serve a meal in a restaurant, or simply sit down to enjoy breakfast, you are part of the food system that agriculture makes possible. One of the best ways to connect with Ontario agriculture is to meet the people who grow your food. This year, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), where I’m part of the provincial board of directors, once again partnered with Farmers’ Markets Ontario to help markets across the province promote their farmer vendors. Following a successful launch year in 2024 with $50,000 of funding from OFA that was matched by the 28 markets who participated, 14 new and 20 returning markets took part in the 2025 program to strengthen connections between farmers and Ontarians. Visiting a farmers’ market is a chance to ask questions, try something new, and build a direct relationship with the people who produce your food. It’s also a great way to support small businesses and keep food dollars circulating in local communities. Ontario Agriculture Week is about recognizing the care and commitment farmers put into raising livestock, tending orchards, planting fields, and harvesting crops. It’s about acknowledging the truck drivers, millers, processors, retailers, and chefs who all play a role in moving food from farm to table. And it’s about celebrating the incredible variety of wonderful farm products – from food and fibre to flowers and fuel – that are produced close to home. Equally important is recognizing agriculture as the powerful foundation of a thriving economy in our province, supporting jobs, healthy communities, and a resilient future. When we support food and farming, invest in rural infrastructure or work to preserve our farmland, we’re also strengthening our province. Happy Ontario Agriculture Week — and a happy Thanksgiving. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Sara Wood, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Every industry depends on its next generation of leaders. Agriculture is no different — in fact, it may be even more important for the farming sector than most others. With fewer farmers, consumers who are asking more questions about food production, and governments making decisions that shape how we grow crops and raise livestock, strong leadership is essential to ensure the voices of farmers are heard. That’s why investing in young farmers isn’t just about their individual growth — it’s about the future of Ontario’s entire agri-food system. I’m a Vice President with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), and our organization is committed to giving young people opportunities to learn, connect, and lead, so they’re ready to take on that responsibility. At this year’s Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, for example, OFA hosted a special networking event for young farmers. It gave participants the chance to meet people they wouldn’t otherwise know, share experiences, and build the kind of community that makes leadership possible. One of the key messages was simple but powerful: leadership starts with saying yes. When you’re balancing work, family, and farm responsibilities, stepping into new opportunities can feel overwhelming. But with the right support system — from family, neighbours, and friends — those doors become easier to walk through. Too often, people hold back because they don’t feel they have the help they need at home, and in doing so, they miss out on valuable growth. Creating networks and building community is how we change that. This is why OFA’s partnerships with organizations like the Junior Farmers’ Association of Ontario (JFAO) are so important. Current JFAO president Jordyn Domio joined OFA at an advocacy day at Queens Park several years ago, which she says was a valuable opportunity to see how meeting and engaging with government leaders helps drive policy changes needed to better support our farming communities. Jordyn emphasizes that young farmers need experiences that build advocacy skills, connect them with industry leaders, and give them a platform to share their perspectives – and partnerships like the one between OFA and JFAO are essential to giving the next generation of leaders a chance to build their skills. Over the past year, OFA has made other investments in developing young farmer leadership too:
Additionally, every year OFA supports five people in agricultural undergraduate, postgraduate and apprenticeship programs with bursaries of $2,000, with one award specifically geared towards leadership development opportunities. We also support 4-H by speaking at their conferences. OFA is a founding sponsor of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP), investing in developing leaders who will find themselves in a variety of leadership roles from business and community to all levels of government. Since AALP’s inception 40 years ago, OFA has contributed $800,000 to the program. And finally, we support 4-H’s annual conferences for youth aged 14 to 21 and have partnered with the organization to create a club focused on the OFA Six by Sixteen initiative – helping young people plan and prepare six nutritious, locally sourced meals by the time they are 16 years old. Every one of these opportunities is about opening doors and helping young farmers see the bigger picture, build connections, and discover their own capacity to lead. Leadership might start with a simple yes, but the impact lasts far longer. Saying yes can lead to new knowledge, mentors, and friendships that make a difference for years to come. For young farmers, it’s also about knowing they’re not alone — that their industry stands behind them and wants them to succeed. At OFA, we’re proud to play that role. Ontario’s agri-food sector depends on the next generation of farmers, and we are committed to making sure they’re equipped to lead with confidence, vision, and a strong voice. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Andrea McCoy-Naperstkow, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
It’s a sinking feeling you don’t forget. And it’s one that more and more Ontarians, including in rural communities, are experiencing: finding yourself the victim of theft. My experience happened while at a conference of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) – my first one as a new director on the organization’s board – in Toronto when my vehicle was stolen out of a hotel parking lot. Farms and rural communities are increasingly becoming targets too. I’ve lived in the country my whole life, and I’ve always felt a sense of safety that comes with knowing your neighbours. But that reality is changing: thefts that once seemed like “city problems” are showing up more and more in our rural communities — and farmers are often prime targets. The Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that in Ontario alone, auto theft claims costs increased by 524% between 2018 and 2023 and reached more than $1 billion annually for the first time in 2023. Actions by the Ontario government to crack down on auto thefts are providing some relief, but the problem remains a significant one. The OFA recently hosted a webinar with on the topic featuring a constable from Perth County OPP. He noted that in rural areas, rising drug addictions are a key driver behind vehicle thefts – and trucks and SUVs, particularly newer models, are attractive targets. The way cars are stolen is becoming more sophisticated too. Many stolen vehicles are shipped overseas or stripped for parts, and thieves increasingly using technology to make thefts quick and quiet. The good news is that many thefts are preventable, according to police, but to protect yourself, it’s important to know the main ways vehicles are stolen. Four of the most common methods include: Relay attacks: Thieves use a device to pick up the signal from your key fob inside your house and transmit it to your car, unlocking and starting it. Break and enter: A smashed window is cheap to replace if it lets someone steal a truck worth $80,000. OBD-II attacks: Thieves plug into your vehicle’s diagnostic port to program a new key and disable security systems. Tow truck thefts: More common in cities but growing. They simply lift and haul your vehicle away. It’s also still very common — especially on farms — to leave vehicles running or unlocked, and while that might feel safe, it’s an easy opportunity for a thief to simply get in your vehicle and drive away. Some people will simply believe that’s what insurance is for, but as someone who has been through this, I know from experience that the real costs go well beyond the deductible. There’s the financial hit of higher insurance premiums and lost time dealing with paperwork, insurance adjusters, towing companies and repair businesses. There’s the emotional and psychological toll — the violation of knowing someone was bold enough to take what’s yours, and the stress of trying settle a claim. And there’s the broader societal impact: stolen vehicles are often used to commit other crimes, putting everyone at risk. Not every theft is preventable, but there are many things that can be done to make ourselves less of a target:
If a theft does happen, call police right away and provide as much detail as possible. Notify your insurance company and keep track of all communications about the file. Ask them to review the claim steps with you so you know what to expect. And if your vehicle is recovered and needs repair, don’t make any payments until you’re satisfied with the completed work. OFA also works with and supports Crime Stoppers to raise awareness of crime prevention. The organization is known for their anonymous tip lines where people who’ve witnessed a crime can make a report, as well as for the cash rewards they pay if a tip leads to a crime being solved, Farmers are facing more threats than ever — from trespassing to digital scams — and staying safe means adapting how we do things. It’s worth taking a few extra minutes to lock up and being aware of your surroundings. OFA’s webinar on theft prevention is available here: https://youtu.be/uGwRSaqMIGc To learn more about how to protect your assets, visit: https://ofa.on.ca/resources/securing-your-assets/ For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  Labour shortages threaten the food system and temporary foreign workers are an essential part of the solution
By Cathy Lennon, General Manager, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Most people picture a farm when they hear the word agriculture, but in reality, agriculture stretches far beyond the farm gate. It includes a network of suppliers, service providers, processors, transporters, and retailers who, together, keep our food system running and our economy thriving. This broad system has one thing in common: it depends on people. And for many parts of the agriculture and agri-food sector, there aren’t enough people to fill all the available jobs – which means relying on temporary foreign workers (TFWs). In simple terms, many agriculture and food-related businesses would not have enough workers without TFWs, threatening food production, disrupting supply chains, and undermining both our food system and our economic stability. This isn’t a new phenomenon as there has long been a chronic shortage of workers in agriculture. In fact, Canada welcomed its first seasonal workers in 1966 when 264 Jamaicans came to Ontario to help with apple harvest, laying the foundation for the long-running and well respected Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). Through SAWP, more than 30,000 workers from Mexico, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Islands come to Canada annually to help grow, manage and harvest produce. The contributions of international farm workers go far beyond the field, orchard, vineyard or greenhouse, though. TFWs also play an important role in livestock transport and support services. They work on barn clean-out crews that maintain cleanliness, sanitation and animal health and care standards. They vaccinate chickens and turkeys, for example and help keep truck wash bays operating, ensuring trucks are clean when they move livestock between farms – work that protects both human and animal health. Many companies that haul perishable goods — like from the Ontario Food Terminal to grocery distribution centres across the country — now depend on TFW drivers to keep food moving. PricewaterhouseCoopers has warned a growing trucker shortage poses significant risk to the Canadian economy and a lack of drivers results in shipment delays and empty shelves, all of which drives up prices. Canada is already short 20,000 drivers and one third of today’s drivers are nearing retirement. Food processing is another major employer of TFWs. Some positions are full-time, year-round jobs in meat processing plants, where employers have long struggled to hire enough local workers. Others are seasonal, such as in vegetable canning or freezing plants, where it’s nearly impossible to find Canadians willing to work for just a few weeks or months each year. Last December, Food and Beverage Canada and Farm Credit Canada shared a report which stated that 59% of Canadian food and beverage manufacturers identified skilled labour as their primary workforce challenge and that 22% of survey respondents had already downsized their operations due to staffing difficulties. And finally, TFWs are present in the food service sector. From quick-service restaurants to institutional kitchens, they help keep operations running. If even 10 per cent of these businesses couldn’t stay open due to labour shortages, or couldn’t operate 24 hours a day, it could significantly reduce demand for the Canadian farm products that supply these outlets. What’s critical to keep in mind is if local workers were available and willing to take these jobs, they would be hired in a heartbeat. But the reality is that year after year, there simply aren’t enough applicants, and employers turn to TFWs to keep farms working, processing plants online and trucks moving. To put it simply, in the agriculture and agri-food sector, TFWs are not replacing Canadian workers or taking job opportunities away from young people. Instead, they are filling essential jobs that otherwise stay empty and are a vital part of keeping our food system secure and competitive, from farm fields to grocery shelves. To hire TFWs, employers must first complete a federal Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove they have tried and failed to recruit qualified Canadians for the jobs they need to fill. Additionally, they must pay their foreign workers what they would pay Canadians for the same work and must follow the same high standards for worker safety and fair treatment as they do for their local workforce. At Ontario Federation of Agriculture, we support efforts to create more opportunities for Canadian youth and jobseekers. But restricting access to TFWs for the agri-food sector will not solve unemployment; instead, it would destabilize industries that depend on this program, jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of Canadians who work alongside TFWs every day, and threaten our ability to produce as much of our own food as we can. We must remember that agriculture means much more than farms. It’s an entire system — and TFWs are a vital part of keeping it moving, supporting our provincial and national economies, and giving all of us access to food and farm products from right here at home. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected]  By Drew Spoelstra, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
To say that there’s been a lot going on in the world over the last eight months would be an understatement. We’ve come through both a provincial and a federal election here at home, which have brought changes. Drought and wildfires have made headlines and caused stress and challenges for those affected. The biggest development, however, has been the arrival of a new administration south of the border, which, in short order, has turned long-standing world relationships upside down, upended supply chains and created an unpredictable global tariff and trade situation that continues to remain fluid. Since March, Canada has been dealing with a variety of tariffs at various levels on our exports to the United States, including steel, aluminum, automotive, energy and products not covered under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). In response, Canada placed reciprocal duties on approximately $60 billion worth of U.S. goods in March. On September 1, Canada exempted CUSMA-compliant U.S. products from its retaliatory tariffs, covering $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, but tariffs remain in place on imports of U.S. steel, aluminum, and autos. An August 1 deadline for our two countries to reach a new deal on tariffs has come and gone with no new announcements – except executive orders upping U.S. tariffs on non-CUSMA-compliant Canadian goods to 35% and adding a 50% tariff on some copper imports. In many ways, the agriculture and agri-food sector has been spared – so far – the direct hit that some other industries have taken in this trade war, but as with everything else in dealing with the new reality south of the border, that could change in a heartbeat. And that doesn’t mean there haven’t been impacts felt right across our sector, from high prices for equipment parts to tariffs on cans for processing tomatoes and floral packaging. Additionally, Canadian pork and canola producers are dealing with steep tariffs from China on their exports. China is one of the biggest buyers of both commodities, and canola growers in particular are calling on the federal government for immediate supports as well as expanding our domestic processing capacity and diversifying export markets. And with CUSMA renegotiation yet to come as the current agreement expires next year, the future is far from clear. I’m the President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), and we’ve heard first-hand from local farm leaders at two roundtables we hosted this summer as well as at our regional meetings currently underway across the province that tariffs and trade continue to be a top concern. In addition to meeting with our members, we also work closely with leaders of other agricultural organizations and stay in regular contact with our national counterparts at the Canadian Federation of Agriculture. To put it simply, we’re continuing to work on many fronts to understand and find solutions for the impacts and challenges on the agriculture sector – as well as for the new opportunities this may present. These include developing targeted support programs and better risk management solutions for farmers, investing in agriculture’s productive capacity, supporting buy local initiatives, expanding export markets and supporting homegrown solutions. We welcome efforts to build stronger relationships with other countries around the world and we’re encouraged by announcements of investments into infrastructure like ports, roads, bridges and energy that will help make it easier to get our goods to market. We’re advocating with government to make sure they’re aware of the needs of a sector that contributes more than $50 billion to the Ontario economy every year, employs over 870,000 people, and exports more than $26 billion in goods annually. Removing or reducing interprovincial trade barriers also continues to be a significant topic and some meaningful progress has been made over the last several months. Ontario passed the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act in June and OFA has provided comments to the regulation development process under this act, which is now underway. The legislation now permits direct-to-consumer alcohol sales from any province that provides reciprocal treatment to Ontario products, which is a significant shift from previous law restricting alcohol shipments across provincial borders. The legislation also enhances labour mobility by recognizing skilled trades and medical professionals certified elsewhere in Canada. Agriculture is an incredibly diverse sector – more than 200 different products are grown, raised and produced in Ontario alone – which often also makes solutions complex. As governments of all levels nation-wide tackle this important file, we continue to work to make sure agriculture is at the table when discussions and consultations are taking place. At the end of the day, Ontario’s farmers are resilient and adaptable, but we can’t face these challenges alone. Strong partnerships with government, industry, and consumers are essential to ensure our sector remains competitive, sustainable, and positioned for growth. As trade realities continue to shift, OFA will keep pushing for policies that protect farm businesses, open new market opportunities, and strengthen the infrastructure that supports our entire food system. Agriculture is more than an economic driver—it’s the foundation of our communities and our way of life, and we’re committed to making sure it remains strong for generations to come. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-994-2578 [email protected] Read more on what OFA is doing below:
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