 By Mark Reusser, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
The agriculture and food industry is a key driver of Canada’s economy, ensuring our grocery shelves stay stocked and our food supply chain strong and viable. Each day, our farmers take the extra step to ensure resiliency in the province’s food supply chain by growing healthy and sustainable food locally. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is dedicated to ensuring our sector’s priorities remain at the forefront of the minds of our government policymakers as we move into a federal election. As Canada emerges from the pandemic and navigates the road to recovery, agriculture will remain a key driver to rebuilding our economy. Over the course of the pandemic, Ontario farmers have worked tirelessly to ensure our local communities have consistent access to a safe, nutritious, and affordable food source, with an added focus of protecting the health and safety of our vital workforce. As the leading agricultural advocate for Ontario’s agri-food sector and rural communities, we will ensure our 38,000 farm family’s across the province have the tools, resources and support necessary to play a significant role in economic recovery. Throughout the course of this election, OFA will be meeting with government policymakers and leaders of various political parties to ensure the needs of the agricultural sector remain at the forefront. Our leaders will be advocating for environmental sustainability for our agri-food sector, a fair carbon pricing policy, revisions to the current business risk management program and access to skilled labour. Farmers are natural stewards of the land. They rely on the air, soil and water to conduct their business, and have a vested interest in the sustainability of these resources. Ontario farmers have invested significantly in environmental stewardship initiatives to mitigate the impact of climate change. Farmers manage grasslands, woodlots, pastures and field crops, all part of a healthy, sustainable carbon cycle. Managing these landscapes benefits all Canadians and puts quality, locally produced food on our tables. As farming continues to evolve and practices become modernized, our hope is to have continued research, innovation and adaption of best practices or emerging technologies to ensure environmental sustainability across the agri-food sector. We are asking political parties to do their part in developing, supporting and funding programs that recognize environmental goods and services provided by farmers. Funding these environmental goods and services will recognize the agriculture sector's role in providing environmental stewardship achievements, which in turn, will benefit our entire province. Carbon pricing continues to be a priority of our organization as we work towards mitigating climate change. Climate change continues to drastically impact our farmer’s ability to grow a healthy abundance of local food and threatens our food supply chain. Our farmers are in need of mitigation tools such as machinery for grain drying, livestock heating and cooling, and irrigation. Unfortunately, mitigation tools such as these require energy, and the ability to shift to other sources or to change behaviour is limited or impossible in some circumstances. Carbon pricing policies are currently in place to provide economic disincentives to carbon emitters in order to encourage a reduction in their emissions. As of now, there are no incentive programs to compensate those already following practices to sequester carbon and reduce emissions. Because there are currently no replacements for fossil fuels for agricultural production, the current carbon tax system cannot drive conservation efforts on farms and serves only to reduce already thin farm margins. OFA is asking political parties to support the provision of exemptions or rebates for farmers where there are no feasible alternatives. We are asking parties to ensure the revenue is being collected from any carbon pricing initiative used to assist agriculture research, innovation, adaptational and resilience building measures. Fulfilling labour needs has been a longstanding challenge in Ontario’s agri-food sector. There is an ongoing need for skilled workers on Canadian farms and across the agri-food industry. Labour shortages put our countries economy at risk and threaten farmers abilities to stock our grocery stores. We want to ensure that employers across the sector have the people they need to drive our economy and feed Canadians. We are asking for support from the leading political party to work with the agri-food industry to develop a Canadian Agri-Food Labour Strategy and support our sector in the development of education programs. OFA is also seeking continual support to current programs in place that are working to address labour shortages across the country, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker program or the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program. Lastly, we are looking to the federal government to support investments in research, innovation, automation and labour-saving initiatives. Our last priority we are bringing to the forefront is access to stronger Business Risk Management Programs (BRM) to help provide financial support to farmers when they experience losses due to risks beyond their control. We believe that as the only whole-farm BRM program, AgriStability requires revisions to better protect farmers in situations of uncertainty. We are asking the government to continue providing farmers with stronger, more reliable access to BRM programs. Effective policies and programs are being developed in the Next Agricultural Policy Framework to assist farmers with risk management, market volatility and on-farm diversification. Agriculture is engaged in this ongoing conversation. OFA will continue to work for our Ontario farm families to ensure the agri-food sector and rural communities are considered in any new and changing legislation, regulation or policy that impacts the profitability and sustainability of farm businesses. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-821-8883 ext. 218 tyler.brooks@ofa.on.ca
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 By Keith Currie, Rejean Pommainville and Brent Royce, Directors, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Later this year, we will be saying goodbye to three valued members of our board. Serving on a board is a great honour and these three farmers, nominated by our membership, have dedicated their time to representing the best interests of 38,000 farm families in Ontario. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) would like to thank these individuals for their commitment to the betterment of our agri-food sector. As they prepare to step down from their leadership roles, we would like to take this opportunity to highlight their accomplishments and experiences. We have sat down with each exiting leader to share personal stories and reflections from their time as an OFA provincial director. Keith Currie has served on OFA’s board as both President and Zone Director for Peel, York and Simcoe. “The most rewarding aspect of serving on OFA’s board was having the ability to work at a provincial level and see how our local communities fit into the bigger picture,” says Keith. “We often use examples from our regions to work on policy change at a higher level.” Keith was motivated to get involved with OFA through his interest in politics. While being involved at the county level, he was always happy to have the opportunity to improve Ontario’s agriculture sector for future generations. “It’s a unique experience. Becoming a part of OFA’s board has given me the opportunity to understand just how vast and complex this industry is,” Keith explains. “I’ve enjoyed learning about the differences and similarities across our sector, as well as how to talk to and relate to people in and out of the agriculture community.” When asked why others should dedicate their time and get involved at a provincial level, Keith shared that although challenging, it is a rewarding and impactful experience. “It’s vitally important that OFA has a key relationship with the Ontario government as we represent the biggest economic driver in the province. Having a collaborative relationship with the government, regardless of the leading political party, provides the opportunity to push for more resources and help this industry grow.” Next, we spoke with Rejean Pommainville, Zone 14 Director representing the counties of Stormont, Glengarry, Prescott and Russell. Like Keith, Rejean shared that the most rewarding aspect of joining OFA’s board was having the ability to represent the organization at a larger level and evoke positive change. “I’ve dedicated 40 years of my life to OFA and have always enjoyed the organization and the opportunities to get involved,” says Rejean. “If I had stayed at the local level, my ability to evoke change would have been limited. Getting involved provincially provided me first-hand experience and allowed me to develop deeper relationships within the sector and with government policymakers.” A piece of advice Rejean shared for those looking to get involved is not to be afraid of the role. He explained that the role is full of opportunities to learn and grow. “People in my family are proud of my accomplishments and the work that I have done. I believe the time has come for me to let the new generation of leaders step in and share their vision.” Rejean believes that as technology continues to progress, the organization could benefit from new voices and perspectives who are knowledgeable about the reality of the changes agriculture is facing. “OFA is doing a great service to our 38,000 farming members in Ontario, and I am really proud to have been involved at a provincial level for the last nine years”. Lastly, we sat down with Brent Royce, Zone 7 Director representing the counties of Huron and Perth, to discuss his experience on OFA’s board. Brent shares that the most rewarding part of his experience is seeing how the organization has grown in the last nine years and feeling as though he has served agriculture for the better. “I had the drive to improve agriculture and I felt as though I had things to contribute at the provincial level,” Brent shared. Brent believes that there is a lot of talent at the local level and encourages members to step up and embark on a new challenge of serving OFA on a provincial platform. “Our members have great potential and passion for our sector. I am eager to see new faces and skills come forward.” The greatest lesson he learned was how much background work, research, consultation and time it takes to make change happen through the development of policies. Brent’s advice to upcoming leaders is that if you possess leadership abilities and passion for the sector, take the initiative to get involved. “You will experience a lot of personal growth, expand your network and make change happen. Don’t be afraid to try it.” OFA is grateful for the time and dedication these directors have given on behalf of OFA’s 38,000 farm families. “Keith, Rejean and Brent have each played a special and unique role on this board and demonstrated leadership for their regions and this province. We thank each of you for all that you’ve done,” OFA’s president, Peggy Brekveld, shares. Our sector is stronger due to their contributions towards the betterment of Ontario agriculture. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-821-8883 ext. 218 tyler.brooks@ofa.on.ca Initiatives to Ensure Mental Health Supports for Rural and Agricultural Communities Unique Needs
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs BLYTH— The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing in new initiatives to support and promote mental health in Ontario’s farming and rural communities. These initiatives will improve the mental health services available to Ontario’s agricultural sector and help ensure farmers, their families and their employees have additional places to turn when help is needed. Three initiatives will receive over $430,000 in funding as the governments continue to focus on ensuring farmers, agri-food workers, and rural communities have access to the mental health support they need. These projects will provide more data on farmer and rural mental health in Ontario to ensure available supports meet unique community needs. “Many farmers and employees have faced great challenges through the pandemic, which only add to the stresses they may face every single day,” said the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “Agricultural mental health programs, such as these, will give Ontario farmers and employees more tools to help them address their challenges. It’s important that farmers and workers know that they should never hesitate to reach out if they’re struggling with their mental health.” “Owning and operating a farm can be very stressful. The combination of the unique challenges of farming with the additional stresses of COVID-19 have made mental health challenges for many in the farming and rural communities more difficult,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Thanks to mental health champions like Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, our government is investing in the well-being of farmers, farm families, farm workers and everyone living in rural communities and we’re building on current knowledge, supports and resources to help them address mental health challenges”. “In a year unlike any other, there has been an increased demand for the expanded availability of mental health services and supports that address the unique needs of Ontario’s agricultural workers,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “With today’s funding, we are taking another important step to ensure Ontarians living in rural communities have targeted, reliable access to the highest quality mental health care that they expect and deserve.” The funding initiatives include:
In Spring 2021, the Ministers of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Mental Health and Addictions held a roundtable to discuss key challenges to farmers’ access to mental health services. Participants cited the main challenges faced by farmers and rural communities include lack of access to mental health services in their communities, the lack of understanding of agricultural literacy by mental health providers, ongoing stigma around mental health issues, significant costs for existing resources, and the need for more emphasis on prevention. The funding announced today will support initiatives that help address concerns raised at the roundtable and builds on Ontario’s existing investments in mental health supports for the agri-food sector. Through resources such as the online mental health first aid kit, and funding mental health training for frontline staff of farm and commodity organizations, Ontario is helping farmers, farm families and farm workers access resources when facing tough times. Ontario is also helping the sector through farm financial assessments, enhanced risk management programs, and the Ontario , Agricultural Information Contact Centre (OMAFRA) where comprehensive support information is available. The province will continue to make mental health a priority and work toward creating an Ontario where everyone is fully supported in their journey toward mental wellness. Quick Facts
Additional Resources The Canadian Agricultural Partnership in Ontario Canadian Agricultural Partnership (AAFC) Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Agricultural Information Contact Centre (OMAFRA) Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc. Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton, University of Guelph Dr. Briana Hagen, University of Guelph Dr. Leith Deacon, University of Guelph Media Contacts Jack Sullivan, Minister’s Office jack.sullivan@ontario.ca Christa Roettele Communications Branch omafra.media@ontario.ca 519-826-3145 Oliver Anderson Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada oliver.anderson@agr.gc.ca 613-462-4327  By Jenn Doelman, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
In Ontario, our farmers use many strategies to support the growth of our crops while being environmentally conscious. Pesticides are a vital tool that can be used to safely manage pests that can be harmful to the health and quality of a farmer’s crop. These products are strategically used to minimize risk to beneficial species and allows for a biodiverse and robust ecological system that functions more efficiently to provide Canadians with a sustainable and secure food system. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) supports our members in utilizing pesticides to ensure the growth, sustainability and health of our fields. Although there are many benefits that come with using pesticides on our crops, this tool is often seen in a negative light due to misinformation about the process and regulations surrounding it’s use. We believe a level of public trust must exist among Canadian consumers and farmers. Therefore, it is important to address inquiries and circumstances of misinformation surrounding the use of pesticides as well as a misunderstanding of the complexity of sustainable food systems. Pesticides are highly regulated in Canada to ensure human health and the environment remain protected. Apart from other countries, Canada has extremely high standards and regulations that must be met in order to safely use pesticides. The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) of Health Canada reviews, evaluates and registers pesticides for safe use in Canada. An evaluation of scientific data is conducted and PMRA ensures that products meet current human and environment health and safety standards in Canada. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) administers Ontario’s Pesticides Act, which provides the province’s framework for regulating the sale, use, transportation, storage and disposal of pesticides. After approval, pesticide products are registered and designated into one of four classes: A (manufacturing), B (restricted), C (commercial), or D (domestic). Once a pesticide is federally registered, it is automatically classified in Ontario according to its federal class designation. Ontario regulates pesticides by requiring appropriate education, licensing and/or permit requirements on their use. Farmers must be certified under the Grower Pesticide Safety Course to buy and use Class B and C pesticides on their farms. This also includes any other individuals that handle pesticides through their job. The class of pesticide determines the sale and use requirements, in addition to the restrictions placed on its use. While pesticides have existed for many years, new technological advancements are constantly being made in response to the evolving climate and environmental circumstances. New products are often introduced to the market and application tools have evolved to improve efficiency and accuracy of pesticide application. Pesticides are extremely costly for farmers and therefore, many are very stringent about the amount used and only use when it is necessary. Invasive species, which often have no natural enemies, are often a primary target for pesticide applications. Natural factors can be very hard on crops and farmers must rely on tools to ensure they yield a healthy and profitable crop. Currently, there are two main types of bulk pesticide applications. These include ground sprayer and aerial. In Ontario, aerial spraying is highly regulated. Commercial applicants must be licensed and insured and must operate in accordance with provincial and federal regulations regarding aerial applications and pesticide products. Only pesticide products registered for aerial application can be used on fields and must be applied according to the directions on the pesticide label. Label conditions exist for aerial spraying to mitigate any risks to human and environmental health, including weather and wind conditions, water volume, application rate, droplet size, equipment specifications, and height above crops. Agricultural aerial spraying holds many benefits in comparison to ground spraying and can be performed via plane or helicopter. Helicopters are smaller, more maneuverable and provide excellent coverage in small or irregularly shaped fields. Unlike a ground sprayer, aerial application is not affected by wet soil conditions and provides fast application to large areas. Soil is also less likely to become damaged by compaction, there are no production losses due to crop trampling and there is no disease spread between fields. OFA continues to ensure that consumers remain aware of the safety steps our sector is taking to ensure our food supply chain remains strong, healthy and sustainable for all of Ontario. The use of pesticides allows for crop growth that translates to fresh local products on the shelves. We will continue to educate and inform the public on the extensive precautions our farmers take each day to ensure the health and safety of our province’s food supply. For more information, contact: Tyler Brooks Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ontario Federation of Agriculture 519-821-8883 ext. 218 tyler.brooks@ofa.on.ca |
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