Our distribution network is one of the keys to keeping our agri-food system functioning in normal and extraordinary times and we rely heavily on the trucking and transportation industry to make that happen. The trucking and transportation system is entrenched in the strength, safety and viability of our entire food value chain.
Commentaries
Read OFA’s weekly commentaries for our position and activities on the current issues and legislation impacting Ontario’s agriculture sector.
OFA takes the pulse of Ontario ag as COVID-19 continues
We’re all living in a new reality as the changes and challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic continue to play out. Last week, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) checked in with our members to find out how they expect this pandemic will impact their farm businesses. Already, 74% of members surveyed online indicated they are anticipating change in their operations due to COVID-19.
Ag Safety Week promotes safe and strong farms in 2020
Safety on the farm is important every day of the year. The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association designates one week in March each year to celebrate ag safety week and raise awareness of the importance of working safely on farms.
OFA welcomes updates to Ontario’s Drainage Act
Ontario’s Drainage Act is one of the oldest and most unique pieces of legislation in the province. For more than 160 years, farmers have relied on the Drainage Act to regulate the construction, maintenance and repair of municipal drains.
Add your voice to Ontario Conservation Authorities consultations
In principle we all want the same thing – clean water and a healthy environment. Ontario is home to one of the most diverse natural landscapes and environments in the country. We’re fortunate to have an expanse of natural watercourses and wetlands that protect and sustain our ecosystems, provide wildlife habitat, manage floods and weather events, and so much more.
Improved mental health services must reach into rural Ontario
As an agricultural industry, we are making significant strides in breaking down barriers and stigma around mental health. Dr. Andria Bitton-Jones and her PhD student, Briana Hagen helped to propel this issue into mainstream conversation and were recognized this week at the Canadian Federation of Agriculture’s Annual General Meeting with Brigid Rivoire Award for Champions of Agricultural Mental Health, nominated for this award by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).
Rail blockade another blow to agri-food sector
The second rail service interruption in a matter of months is creating serious economic, social and animal welfare concerns for Ontario farmers and rural communities. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), along with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and fellow agricultural and agri-business organizations, are calling on the federal government to find an immediate solution to the disrupted rail service.
OFA opposes residential severances on prime ag land
Land use planning and the policies governing it are of keen interest to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) and our farming members – primarily from the perspective of preserving productive agricultural land for its broadest uses.
Agriculture is a big player in climate change mitigation
Ontario’s farmers are leaders in innovation and adaptation. This is evidenced not only in the way we embrace technology, but also the farm practices we use to ensure that we are competitive, sustainable and profitable – not just for 2020, but for the future generations that farm after us.
Rural infrastructure investments will pave the way for prosperity
Pushing for sound public investments in rural Ontario is a priority for the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). We know that investments in our rural communities will jump-start growth, farming, agri-businesses, and in turn stimulate the entire provincial economy. And it’s our job to remind government of these necessary investments – in roads and bridges, broadband, access to affordable energy, schools and healthcare.