Every year, the Agricultural Hall of Fame Association (OAHF) carefully selects industry pioneers from across the province who have made significant contributions to Ontario agriculture, honouring them with induction into the OAHF.

The primary mission of the Hall of Fame is to recognize, document and preserve the remarkable achievements of leaders who have propelled the growth and advancement of Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sector.

As a proud patron sponsor of the OAHF, OFA extends its heartfelt congratulations to the following outstanding individuals for their remarkable achievements and their induction this year:

Bert Andrews

Bert has been an OFA member since 1994 and resides in Halton township. He has been a Director on the Halton Region Federation of Agriculture, is a board member of Fruit Wines of Ontario, and was successful in advocating for the sales of Ontario fruit wines at provincial farmers’ markets.

Ron Bonnett

Ron served as the Algoma Director on the provincial board of the OFA. He then became an Executive Member, Vice-President and President of the OFA. During his tenure, Ron led the OFA through the Walkerton water crisis and the resulting legislation for nutrient management and source water protection.

Bill Gray

Bill has been an OFA member since 2005 and under his leadership, Gray Ridge Eggs Inc. has grown to become one of the principal players in the Ontario farm-to-table egg market. He has dedicated his life to innovating the future of food in Ontario through constant adoption of new egg farming science and technologies. 

Grant Howes

Grant was a founding member of the Prince Edward County Wine Growers Association, Fruit Wines of Ontario Association, and the Ontario Craft Cider Association. He taught Wine Technology at Loyalist College and was an advisor to the Niagara College Winery Program. Grant was a visionary leader in apple growing and specifically cider production.

Verner Toews

Verner Toews was a lifelong vegetable farmer who was involved in the initial efforts of crafting and participating in pricing negotiations with processors. Additionally, he was one of the first greenhouse growers in Ontario, paving the way for a sector which has grown and developed greatly over the past 60 years.

Tina Widowski

Dr. Tina Widowski is one of the world’s foremost experts in the housing management of farm animals and has been described as a pioneer in poultry behaviour and welfare research in Canada and globally. She has played a significant role working with the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) and producer groups in the development of several new Codes of Practice.

We commend you all for your unwavering dedication to the betterment of Ontario Agriculture.

For further details about this year’s esteemed inductees and the specifics of the 2024 Induction Ceremony, please read the full OAHF news release here.