There are few things that Canadians talk about more than the weather, and that’s even more true of farmers. Whether it’s too wet or dry, too hot or cold, a late season frost or storms that bring damaging wind or hail – those of us who farm are focused on what happens outdoors.
Read OFA Viewpoint weekly for our position and activities on the current issues and legislation impacting Ontario’s agriculture sector.
What to know about renewable energy installations on your land
Ontario’s agri-food sector is an economic powerhouse – producing more than 200 farm and food products, fuelling rural communities, generating nearly 750,000 jobs, and contributing more than $50 billion to Ontario’s annual GDP.
Farm business not immune to cyber security threats
With the world becoming increasingly connected and digitized, cyber security is a growing concern. Criminals are targeting retailers, municipalities, healthcare providers and critical infrastructure – and as the agriculture sector increases its reliance on sensors, data collection and online connectivity, it is also becoming a target.
Farmers in urgent need of action: “Unacceptable” for railways to download costs onto farmers, rural landowners
Several years ago, Transport Canada updated its safety standards for federally regulated railway crossings. A deadline of November 28, 2024 was set for all crossings to meet the new Grade Crossings Regulations.
Support local this fall to help Ontario farms grow
Every year, in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, our province marks Ontario Agriculture Week. It’s a time to recognize and celebrate the important ongoing contribution Ontario farmers make to our society and our economy in producing food, feed, fuel and flowers.
Farmers urged to focus on fire prevention as part of winter prep
Every year, farm fires result in tens of millions of dollars in losses to buildings, businesses and farm animals; and the financial losses don’t take into account the toll on farm families.
Celebrating and supporting our francophone farming heritage
September 25 is Franco-Ontarian Day in our province. It’s a celebration of the cultural, historical, social, economic and political contributions of francophones in Ontario.
Patience on the road will help avoid accidents during harvest season
Road safety is always important, but even more at this time of year when farmers move between fields, farms and other locations to harvest crops and get them to market, processing or storage.
Fall shows, fairs and events strengthen food and farming connections
Early September often feels as much like a new beginning as early January does. It’s when most summer activities end, and kids go back to school. For the farming community, it means harvest time kicks into high gear – but it also unofficially marks the beginning of our sector’s annual meeting and event season.
Balancing our energy and food security needs
The demand for energy is growing in Ontario, as is the need for reliable supply and infrastructure that will provide sustainable, affordable options and accommodate growth across all sectors of the economy, including the agri-food sector.