Overview
OFA believes that agri-food research is a critical tool for Ontario farmers, providing new technologies and practices that improve agricultural productivity, develop new agricultural products, and sustain Ontario’s soil, air, and water resources.
OFA advocates for greater investment in agri-food research, both direct public investment as well as incentives and support for private sector research and development. OFA is actively involved in the OMAFRA-University of Guelph Partnership Research Program to ensure research is targeted to benefit Ontario farmers and encourage industry engagement.
Agriculture is a knowledge-based industry and research is essential to the sector’s future competitiveness with improved genetics, efficient systems, and safer, better quality products.
OFA believes improved communication and collaboration across government ministries would result in better access to the funding opportunities for business development, research and innovation.
OFA also believes farm businesses should be offered financial incentives to encourage the adoption of innovative farming techniques and technologies that will improve the adaptability, efficiency and productivity.
The Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership) is a five-year commitment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada’s agri-food and agri-products sectors. Strategic initiatives including cost-share funding to support projects with a focus on research and innovation. Key priority areas are economic development, environmental stewardship, and protection and assurance.
OFA Position
OFA believes that agri-food research is a critical tool for Ontario farmers, providing new technologies and practices that improve agricultural productivity, develop new agricultural products, and sustain Ontario’s soil, air, and water resources.
With a focus on Knowledge Translation and Transfer (KTT), agri-food research should be developed based on demand, and knowledge should be transferred to industry to use in a timely and effective manner.