For the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), January marks the beginning of membership renewal season. There are several ways that farmers, farm businesses and agricultural organizations become an OFA member.

Most well-known is the Farm Business Registration membership. In Ontario, farms that earned a gross income of at least $7,000 in the past year must register their business through Agricorp to qualify for certain programs and benefits.

Once registered, those farm businesses are eligible for the farm property class tax rate for farmland, farm vehicle license plates and to apply to participate in special government programs for agriculture.

These include the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program for losses to crops or livestock caused by wildlife, and government cost-share programs for initiatives boosting soil health and water quality, reducing greenhouse gas emissions or protecting species at risk.

With registration, farmers select a membership in one of Ontario’s three accredited farm organizations – and every year, you decide which organization you want to belong to and support with your membership fee.

Individuals who are or have been directly involved in farming but who do not otherwise quality for Farm Business Registration can purchase an Individual Farm Membership. OFA also counts 29 agricultural and commodity organizations among our valued members.

So why choose the OFA as your Accredited Farm Organization of choice this year?

It’s simple: we’re the trusted voice that turns your concerns into action.

OFA helps policymakers understand who farmers are and what we do – and what impact their decisions have on those of us who produce food, fuel, fibre and flowers.

OFA builds impactful partnerships with government, other farm organizations and industry partners on tools and solutions to keep farms strong.

OFA is a strong, united voice for farmers and rural communities on topics from taxation and farmland preservation to farmer wellness, rural infrastructure and more.

As the organization that represents 88% of Ontario’s farmers, OFA is best positioned to be that leading, trusted voice for the sector and help ensure Farms and Food Forever.

Renew your farm business registration online today at www.agricorp.com/fbr. If you have any questions regarding the FBR renewal, please contact OFA Member Relations at memberrelations@ofa.on.ca or 1-800-668-3276.

If you would like to request a refund, please click here and follow our refund policy to submit your request.