Farm security is a serious matter. Unfortunately, unwanted trespassers, theft and vandalism are dealt with regularly on farms, especially those located around urban areas. The implications of trespassing on farms is more important than ever. Animal activism, stricter biosecurity measures and an increasing global food system means food security and safety are being linked directly to farm security and traceability.
OFA partnered with Farm & Food Care Ontario to develop a guide that pulls together relevant security information that applies to farmers and rural residents.
The Practical Guide to On-Farm Security
Who needs this manual?
This resource was designed with Ontario farmers in mind. It offers practical, strategic solutions to keep farm assets secure. Whether you’re in the back-roads of rural Ontario or located in an area where urban development is continually encroaching, this resource is intended to provide best management practices that will allow Ontario farmers to keep their property, their assets and their families and animals safe.
How to use this resource
The practical guide to on-farm security was developed in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) and Farm & Food Care Ontario. This resource should be used in conjunction with other security resources. The guidelines provided should be treated as recommendations, to be adapted to meet individual needs and circumstances. Legal, security or law enforcement advice should be sought whenever appropriate.
The case for farm security
Statistically, property crime rates for rural areas are low, compared to those of urban areas. There are a number of best practices that can help farmers reduce those numbers even further. Over the last ten years, the value of no-land farm assets has grown by over 50 per cent. When property and asset crime does occur in the farm sector, the implications can be severe.
There are many reasons why farm security is a significant concern: crop disease and damage, animal activism, trespass, theft and vandalism. And, with an increasingly global food system, food security and safety are being linked to farm security and traceability.
Ask yourself:
- Do you have adequate ‘no trespassing’ signs on your property?
- Do you know how to identify your tools and farm equipment if something goes missing?
- Do you know when to call the police to notify them of an incident on your farm?
- Do you know what to do if unwanted visitors show up at your farm?
- What are security best management practices for Ontario farmers?
Contents of the Guide
This project was funded in part through Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of Growing Forward 2 in Ontario.
Updated March 31, 2015