OFA has submitted comments to the Privy Council Office in response to the federal consultation, Getting Major Projects Built in Canada – Discussion Paper on Proposed Legislative, Regulatory, and Policy Reforms.

OFA supports the federal government’s efforts to streamline major project approvals but emphasizes that reforms must protect agricultural lands, water resources, and farm operations.

OFA recommends that all projects with potential impacts on agriculture be required to complete a mandatory Agricultural Impact Assessment (AIA), including projects within proposed Federal Economic Zones. Federal reviews should also ensure that projects do not negatively affect agricultural water supplies, drainage systems, or compliance with provincial legislation such as Ontario’s Drainage Act.

OFA further recommends that the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food be included in federal decision-making whenever agricultural lands or systems may be affected.

While supporting a more efficient approval process, OFA stresses that protecting agriculture is essential to Canada’s food security, economic growth, and rural communities.