In 2016, a group of agricultural leaders and environmental advocates joined together with the goal of improving the sustainability of Ontario’s farmland through the widespread adoption of cover crops. This collaboration led to the formation of the Ontario Cover Crop Steering Committee, which developed a strategic action plan aimed at making cover crops a standard practice on farms across the province.

The Steering Committee is chaired by the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) and includes a diverse range of agricultural organizations such as:

• Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)
• Ontario Agri-Business Association (OABA)
• Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (OFVGA)
• Certified Crop Advisor Association (CCA)
• Conservation Authorities and Conservation Ontario
• Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario (EFAO)
• Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA)
• Soils at Guelph

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) serves as a resource to the committee.

The primary role of the Steering Committee is to lead the implementation of the Ontario Cover Crop Strategy. The members meet regularly to assess progress and ensure that the action plan is moving forward—ultimately working towards the goal of making cover crops a widespread and standard practice across Ontario farms.

Why Cover Crops Matter

Cover crops are plants grown primarily to protect and enhance the soil during times when main crops aren’t being grown. They help:

• Reduce soil erosion
• Retain nutrients
• Improve soil health
• Support biodiversity
• Mitigate climate impacts

The Ontario Cover Crop Strategy focuses on four main areas:

1. Research and Agronomy
   Supporting studies on which cover crop species perform best in Ontario’s diverse agricultural environments, and sharing practical advice on planting and managing them.
2. Policy and Programs
   Shaping government policies and incentive programs that encourage the use of cover crops.
3. Communication and Outreach
   Sharing the benefits of cover crops and offering guidance to ensure farmers can implement them successfully.
4. Farmer Champions
   Promoting peer-to-peer learning by supporting farmers who lead by example and share their experiences with others.

OFA’s Broader Commitment

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) plays a key role in this initiative, but its commitment to sustainability goes beyond cover crops. OFA also provides leadership on several other environmental programs, including:

• The 4R Ontario Nutrient Stewardship Program
• The Soil Action Group, which supports Ontario’s Soil Health and Conservation Strategy

Want to Learn More?

Here are some helpful resources for those interested in cover crops:

• Ontario Cover Crop Strategy & Action Plan (2019–2023)
• Best Management Practices Books on Cover Crops
• OMAFA Resources on Cover Crops
• Choosing the Right Cover Crop
• Adaptation and Use of Cover Crops
• Field Crop News – Cover Crops