http://www.ofa-on-ca.rkd.caThe latest news from the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.Copyright 2013. All rights reserved.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/provincial-budget-holds-promise-for-Ontario-agriculture5/3/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/province-invests-100-million-to-reduce-bumps-in-the-road5/2/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Ontario-groups-see-promise-in-Local-Food-Act3/25/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/HayEast-receives-additional-provincial-funding3/20/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-applauds-new-horse-racing-partnerships3/11/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Working-together-to-protect-pollinators3/8/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/HFA-March-board-meeting.aspx3/7/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/HayEast-2012-slows-down-with-funding-cap3/7/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/3/7/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/2/14/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/HFA-Feb-board-meeting.aspx2/14/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Incoming-premier-to-work-with-Ontario-agriculture1/28/2013http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-receives-accreditation-status12/7/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/12/6/2012An Introduction to Social Media. Dufferin Federation of Agriculture is hosting a FREE one hour session on social media at the Shelburne Public Library at 7 pm on Friday Nov. 30th. Susan Costante (aka farm.girl@rogers.com) who is also Associate Director of Communications at Toronto Pearson Airport will be leading the session. Space is limited so register by calling 519-217-8353 or emailing farm.girl@rogers.comhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Social-Media--Why-farmers-should-fuss-with-Facebook..aspx11/30/2012You're invited to a complimentary luncheon and info session in Erin on December 7. Learn about the "Agriculture, More Than Ever," volativity in grain and land prices, "Top 20 Management Tips and more. RSVP now! Michelle Drewery, 519-824-5410 or mdrewery@bdo.ca http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/"Agriculture-Matters"-series-by-BDO.aspx11/29/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Fall-Newsletter-2012.aspx11/27/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Mark-Wales-re-elected-as-new-OFA-president11/23/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-congratulates-NDACT-on-mega-quarry-win11/21/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Hay-East-2012-government-funding-a-boost-for-Ontario-farmers11/5/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Board-Meeting.aspx11/1/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-applauds-plan-to-get-horse-racing-back-on-track10/31/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Hay-East-2012-applauds-Agrium-donation10/23/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/First-Hay-East-2012-truckoads-arrive-in-Ontario10/9/2012 http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Bruce-County-Federation-of-Agriculture-New-Wind-Turbine-Policy-Statement.aspx10/1/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Local-Food-Act-an-opportunity-to-develop-an-Ontario-food-strategy9/28/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/best-of-a-bad-deal9/21/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Local-Food-Act-a-win-for-Ontario-farmers9/21/2012Please join us Sept 20 to discuss "What is the future of farming in Brant County? We need direction from our members to convey to our county representatives. Join us at Brant Mutual Insurance Building, boardroom, at the back of the building, located at 20 Holiday Drive Brantford.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Brant-County-Annual-Meeting,-Sept-20-2012.aspx9/20/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-HayEast-2012-ask-Canadians-to-help-Scotiabank-facilitating-donations9/18/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Hay-East-participants-are-neighbours-helping-neighbours9/14/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Hay-East-working-to-deliver-hay-to-drought-stricken-farms9/13/2012The 2012 Round the County Ag tour will be taking place Sunday, Sept. 9th. Maps will be available at the local libraries, municipal service centres, and local restaurants two weeks prior to the tour.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Chatham-Kent-Round-the-County-Ag-Tour.aspx9/9/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Horse-racing-industry-needs-new-partnership-to-survive8/31/2012The KFA is again offering two scholarship opportunities for students entering or continuing with post secondary education in agriculture related programs. The recipients must be from the family of a KFA member. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/KFA-Scholarships.aspx8/31/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/The-cost-of-doing-business-in-agriculture8/24/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/grand-river-watershed-project-news-release8/23/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/rising-food-costs-won’t-be-as-steep-as-feared8/17/2012The Huron County Federation of Agriculture is now accepting nominees for our Annual Huron County Award. If you know of someone who has made a difference to Agriculture and the Community we ask you to nominate them for this award. Fill out the nomination form with name of nominee and other information that will assist in the selection and return to HCFA Office. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/HCFA-Annual-Award--nominations-open.aspx8/17/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Drought-damage-provides-a timely-case study-for-future-farm-programs8/10/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-leaders-value-dialogue-about-programs-affecting-agriculture8/3/2012Get the Newest Edition of the Huron-Perth Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map Now!http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/4th Huron-Perth-Buy-Local!-Buy-Fresh!-Map-.aspx8/1/2012Get the Newest Edition of the Huron-Perth Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map Now!http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Huron-Perth-Buy-Local!-Buy-Fresh!-Map-.aspx8/1/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Drought-raises-stakes-for-all-farmers-across-the-province7/27/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/High-demand-for-farmland7/20/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/know-your-rights-when-unexpected-visitors-show-up-on-the-farm7/13/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-membership-survey-provides-valuable-insights-about-members7/6/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Regulations-and-risk-management-key-OFA-member-priorities-survey-says7/4/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-yields-and-prices-are-among-climate-change-victims6/29/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/New-act-will-ensure-the-long-term-viability-of-the-Great-Lakes6/25/2012The KFA and OMAFRA are working together to offer this workshop. It is geared to producers who grow and process food items. The purpose of the course is to help reduce the risk of food contamination and assist with food safety and traceability program. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/On-Farm-Food-Safety-Workshop.aspx6/19/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/EFA-June-2012-Newsletter.aspx6/19/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Safe-Food-For-Canadians-Act-is-a-win-for-the-sector6/15/2012Norfolk Federation of Agriculture Board Member Richard Walker collecting batteries during the annual fundraiser.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Battery-Blitz-a-Success.aspx6/15/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/What-your-MP-needs-to-know-to-help-agriculture-continue-growing-forward6/11/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-and-stakeholders-will keep-new-horse-racing-panel-on-track6/8/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Census-illustrates-Ontario-changing-role-in-Canadian-agriculture6/1/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Advocating-for-farm-safety5/25/2012The Norfolk Federation of Agriculture has taken a lead role in developing and promoting the Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) Project. ALUS is an initiative to promote conservation of natural areas on farms, to enhance wildlife habitats and to convert marginal farmland to produce environmental benefits.www.norfolkalus.ca You tube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShOomq81hG0 http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/NFA-Takes-a-Lead-Role-Promoting-ALUS.aspx5/21/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Aggregates-Act-must-preserve-farmland-and-soil-for-future-generations5/18/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/BioAmber-to-open-new-markets-for-Ontario-farmers5/17/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/An-untimely-review-of-Ontario-aggregate-Resources-Act5/11/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-supports-call-to-reinstate-spring-bear-hunt5/11/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/New-provincial-food-strategy-initiative-requires-farmer-input5/4/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Queen-Park-event-builds-stronger-relationships-with-government4/27/2012Each year the NFA gives out two $500 bursaries to Norfolk County Students who are enrolled in either an agricultural or enviromental program at a post secondary institution. Students should ask at their school's guidence department for an application or email nfamail@kwic.com for a copy of the application. Applications are due by June 1, 2012. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/NFA-Burseries-Available.aspx4/26/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Agricultural-Adaptation-Council-is-important-to-agriculture4/20/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Changes-needed-in Species-at-Risk-legislation4/13/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Tommy-Cooper-Winner-~-Barb-Klages.aspx4/13/2012This is a notice that Credit Valley Conservation will be mailing a survey to the farm and rural non-farm landowners within and nearby the Credit River Watershed. Details of the survey canbe found in attached press release. We would encourage members to participate in the completion of the survey. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. MarkEastman, M.Sc., P.Ag. ProgramCoordinator, Agricultural Extension Credit Valley Conservation 1255 Old Derry Road Mississauhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/CVCA-Survey-to-Rural-Land-Owners.aspx4/10/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Animal-welfare-regulatory-reform-lets-get-it-right4/5/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farmers-gather-on-the-Hill-for-annual-MP-breakfast4/4/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Agriculture- in-a-tough-budget3/30/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Coalition-Pleased-Ontario-Budget-Preserves-Risk-Management-Program3/29/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Report-confirms-agriculture-continues-to-drive-Canadian-economy3/29/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Cautiously-awaiting-budgets3/26/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Betting-on-the-wrong-horse3/15/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Working-towards-prosperous-and-sustainable-farms3/12/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/FNA-OFA-sign-partnership-agreement3/7/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-wants-to-hear-from-its-members3/2/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/New-biomass-study-supports-production-in-Ontario3/1/2012Dave Pyper, IPM2012 and John Drummond, Waterloo 4-H are Jeff Stager's guests this week.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/The-Agriculture-Show-Episode-VII.aspx2/28/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Budgeting-for-a-stronger-Ontario2/24/2012Local Scotia branches hosting a seminar on farm succession planning. March 8, 2012 in Fergus. Call 519-787-2024 to reserve a spot before Mar 3rd.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Scotia-Farm-Legacy-Forum.aspx2/24/2012Jeff Stager's guest this week: Heidi Wagner talking about the Waterloo Rural Women network and Fred Martin from his sugar bush.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Episode-VI-of-The-Agriculture-Show.aspx2/21/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/How-can-OFA-reduce-red-tape-for-you2/17/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Policy-Advisory-Council-feb-15.aspx2/9/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Food-Freedom-Day-it- not-just-another-meal2/8/2012All of the three episodes of the Agiculture Show are archived at www.soundfm.ca . Type "agriculture" in the search box. All three full episodes should appear. Please give us your feedback.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/radio-show-episode-three-and-full-archive-of-all-shows.aspx1/21/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-calls-government-suspend-wind-turbine-development-in-Ontario1/20/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Wind-power-versus-rural-power1/20/2012Jeff's special guest this week is Trevor Herrle of Herrles Country Farm Market on Erb's Road just east of St. Agatha. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Jeff's-Agriculture-Show-Week-2.aspx1/12/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Visiting-newly-elected-MPPs-in-the-ROW.aspx1/8/2012Waterloo Federation of Agriculture director, Jeff Stager is the host of a 1 hr show on SoundFM 100.3 in Waterloo. Tune your radio in to 100.3 FM at 4 pm on Thursdays for the month of January. Download an excerpt of the Jan. 5th program.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Agriculture-Radio-Show.aspx1/6/2012http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Keeping-watch-over-Canada-economic-outlook1/6/2012Farmers in Southwestern Ontario are fortunate to have Simon Crouch and his Farm Radio report to keep us up-to-date on various agriculture events and news items. Country 92.9 / am630 CFCO http://farmradio.ca/http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-Radio-Blackburn-Radio.aspx12/30/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/2011-OFA-year-in-review12/22/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/We-must-stand-together-for-green-energy12/16/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-President-Says-Open-for-Business-Making-Progress12/12/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-plans-bigger-moves-to-reform-OSPCA-Act12/9/2011Scholarships for the 2011 year are: Theresa Buis and Jeffrey Huston. Congratulations! http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Kent-Federation-of-Agriculture-SCHOLARSHIP.aspx12/8/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Improving-the-green-energy-fit12/5/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Newly-elected-OFA-president-focusing-on-working-together11/28/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Mark-Wales-elected-as-new-OFA-president11/24/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-salutes-Donna-Lunn with-anniversary-volunteer-award11/23/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Find-out-more-about-the-latest-Canadian-farmland-values11/18/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Rumours-of-the-demise-of-supply-management-greatly-exaggerated11/18/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-201-Audited-Financial-Statements11/11/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-educates-MPPs-with-a-Royal-flair11/11/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/The-need-to-fed-seven-billion11/4/2011At the recent DFA annual meeting the members present voted in favour of proposed amendments to the DFA constitution. The constitution is the road map that guides the organization and its directors.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/"NEW"-DFA-Constitution.aspx11/3/2011Federal support for an expanded risk management program is one of the biggest goals for newly-appointed Ontario Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Minister Ted McMeekin.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA begins-work-with-provincial-ministries10/27/2011Farmers seek help to curb trespassing By Bill Tremblay, Orangeville Banner, Oct. 24, 2011 Off-road vehicles are giving new meaning to biting the hand that feeds in Dufferin County. Leo Blydorp, director of the Dufferin Federation of Agriculture, has sent a letter to municipalities throughout the county asking for help to deter trespassers from private farmland. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farmers-Seek-.aspx10/24/2011The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) looks forward to working with all Cabinet members as we pursue the Premier’s goal of strengthening Ontario’s economyhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-welcomes-Minister-McMeekin-to-agriculture10/20/2011City of Kitchener and the City of Waterloo are considering rebates and credits for stormwater management fees. WFA sees the few farms in their boundaries as a big part of the solution to stormwater management.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Stormwater--farms-are-a-solution.aspx10/17/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/President's-for-Grey-County-Federation-of-Agriculture-for-2011-2012.aspx10/14/2011OFA has had a successful record of working with Premier McGuinty’s government and we look forward to continuing to achieve positive policies and programs for Ontario farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-Educating-the-new-slate-of-MPP10/14/2011Fall 2011 newsletterhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-eNews.aspx10/7/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-looks-forward-to-working-with-the-newly-elected-government10/7/2011Almost every county in Ontario has a local food map and website to direct consumers to their local producers. These maps and websites act as a marketing tool for the farmer/producer, creating awareness of the availability of wholesome, nutritious food close to home. We would like a map for May 2012. If you are interested in being on a map, please fill out the attached form.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Dufferin-Farm-Fresh.aspx10/7/2011All members should review these changes. All amendments are shown in the document as the underlined portions. Those parts to be removed from the constitution will be seen to be struck through with a line. Amendments will be adopted if two-thirds of those members present at the annual meeting vote in favour of the changes. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/DFA-constitution-amendments.aspx10/7/2011Steve Martin is this year's Annual Meeting and Banquet, Thursday October 20, 2011. Call now for tickets > 519-662-2790http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Steve-Martin-Guest-Speaker-at-WFA-Annual-Meeting--Banquet.aspx10/6/2011Changes to OFA's structure has meant some re-alignment is required of WFA's constitution. These amendments must be approved by 2/3 vote at the annual meeting. The proposed changes are attached.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-Constitutional-Amendments-to-Consider.aspx10/5/2011Thousands of People Witness 160 Acres of Soybeans Harvested in 11:43 Harvest of Hunger huge success; Event raises over $250,000 to end hunger http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Harvest-For-Hunger-.aspx10/5/2011The WFA News is in the mail to members. If you are not a member or are an impatient member get a copy here and now.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-News-Fall-2011.aspx10/4/2011In 2008, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) made a number of recommendations on behalf of our members for changes to the legislation amending the OSPCA Act .http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-seeks-animal-care-regulation-reform10/3/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-provincial-election-issues-2011-correspondence-sent-to-all-candidates.aspx9/27/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Bette-Jean-Crews-not-seeking-re-election-in-November9/26/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Food-import-regulations-need-an-overhaul9/23/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Green-thumbs-drive-green-energy9/16/2011Clarence Martin of Pullets Plus, Elmira enjoys the fit of his OFA "Proud to Farm" jacket.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Local-Member-Enjoys-OFA-Proud-To-Farm-Jacket.aspx9/15/2011Rising agricultural commodity values and tight inventory levels have seriously contributed to a significant upswing in the price of Ontario farmland in 2011, according to a report released by RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Record-Prices-for-Farmland-Reported-by-Remax.aspx9/13/2011Next time it rains, fill out our BCFA membership survey and win a certificate from Mark's workwearhousehttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Win-100.00-certificate.aspx9/12/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-wants-you-to-share-your-voice9/9/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-meets-with-Harold-Albrecht.aspx9/6/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/modernizing-regulation-a-top-priority9/2/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/new-volunteer-recognition-marks-ofa-anniversary9/1/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-works-with-provincial-government-to-reduce-regulatory-red-tape8/29/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-weighs-in-on-wind-turbine-development8/26/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/election agenda8/22/2011OFA is deeply saddened by the loss of Federal NDP Leader Jack Layton. As a politician, Jack was always easy to talk with and ready to listen to new ideas. We send our thoughts to his family and friends, as we recognize and honour this highly respected Canadianhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/layton8/22/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/PAC-meeting-Aug-16.aspx8/16/2011Energy drives agriculturehttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Efficient-reliable-energy-is-vital-agricultural-input8/12/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Federation-Footnotes-2011-(monthly)-.aspx8/10/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/calender-of-events-aug-sep-2011.aspx8/5/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/wfa-directors-meeting-agenda-august.aspx8/4/2011When Ontarians head to the polls this fall, OFA wants to be sure agriculture’s vital role in a healthy Ontario economy is a top election issuehttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/October 6–let’s-make-it-all-about-agriculture8/4/2011Every Ontario farmer produces enough food to feed 120 people each yearhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Ontario-farmers-seek-federal-support7/29/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/One-million-to-Grand-River-Foods-Cambridge.aspx7/27/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/wfa-directors-meet-with-Stephen-Woodworth-MP-Kitchener.aspx7/26/2011Farmers are faced with risk in almost every part of their business from the weather to market fluctuations.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/reducing-the risky-business-of-farming7/25/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/21.5-million-to-Grand-Valley-Fortifiers-Cambridge.aspx7/20/2011A choice to live and work in rural Ontario shouldn’t limit our access to the same range and level of services our urban counterparts enjoy. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ramping-up-rural-infrastructure7/15/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/$600,000-to-.aspx7/11/2011Everyone wants clean air to breathe and safe water to drink, but did you ever stop to consider that these might come at a cost? Farmers follow on-farm environmental stewardship practices every day that benefit all Ontarians.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Putting-a price-on-our-environment7/8/2011WFA directors Mark Ruesser and Jeff Stager attend an event about the world food "casino" http://www.wrfoodsystem.ca/events/eating-at-the-casino/#eventhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-directors-attend-public-meeting.aspx7/6/2011Ontario livestock farmers will receive more compensation for damaged caused by predatory wildlife, as part of the new Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Programhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/improved-predatory-wildlife-compensation-announced-for-ontario-farmers7/4/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-visits-local-MP's.aspx7/2/2011City of Toronto committee recently refused to adopt a policy that would direct City staff to buy local food.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Canadas-largest-city-overlooks-local-food-production6/30/2011Ontario farmers will be better prepared to manage risk and stabilize farm incomes beginning this fall. Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, made the formal announcement today about the much anticipated risk management program (RMP) that recognizes the need to help farmers reduce income unpredictability and price volatilityhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-welcomes-Ontario-governments-commitment-to-RMP6/29/2011When Ontario residents head to the polls on October 6, at least 37,000 of them will have agriculture on their mind.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-preparing-for-the-election6/23/2011http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WFA-supports-MPP-Pendergast-on-aggregate-issues.aspx6/20/2011Every year, farmers help grow the Ontario economy with an injection of $3.4 billion tax dollars http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/A-tasty-outlook-on-the-food-that-feeds-our-economy6/9/2011This year’s wet spring weather is sure to make 2011 one of the most important years for farmers to invest in risk management strategieshttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-stats-support-need-for-Risk-Management-Program6/3/2011Consumers are becoming more interested in where their food comes from, and the safety and security of our food supplyhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Nothing-tastes- better-than-a-secure-food-system5/27/2011The Ontario Federation of Agriculture knows that maintaining an open line of communication with the federal government – particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – is important to ensure issues facing Ontario farmers http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Bringing-Ontario-issues-to-the-federal-level5/19/2011A little summary about the news posthttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/somethings-going-on5/19/2011Everyone who lives and works in Ontario is governed by regulations. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Working-with-government-regulatory-reform5/13/2011Dufferin Federation of Agriculture submission to MNR regarding the Highland Group quarry applicationhttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/DFA-makes-submission-on-the-Highland-Quarry.aspx4/4/2011Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Chatham-Kent is your guide to local producers. Be kind to your community and the environment and buy local. www.buylocalbuyfreshchathamkent.com http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Buy-Local!-Buy-Fresh!-Chatham-Kent.aspx4/1/2011The provincial budget marked a very important day for Ontario agriculture.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/thank-you-to-ontario-farmers3/30/2011The establishment of a risk management program (RMP) was the single most important action the provincial government could have taken...http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ontario-budget-delivers-risk-management-programs3/29/2011"We were pleased to work closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources in helping to develop the first elk hunt in more than a century"...http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-supports-ontarios-action-on-elk-management1/11/2011Delegates cast their ballots today to re-elect Bette Jean Crews as President of the Board at the OFA’s annual general meeting and convention in Torontohttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-reelects-bette-jean-crews-as-president11/23/2010The Ontario Federation of Agriculture has noticed an awareness gap between farmers and the WSIB requirements around coverage for custom farm workers and independent operators.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/WSIB-look-at-farm-business7/24/2009Ideas to keep farming alive by getting young people started in agriculture in Ontario were shared here March 21 when close to 130 new and beginning farmers attended the summit http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ideas-for-beginning-farmers3/23/2009http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/test.aspx7/3/2008Consultations with farmers, their organizations and other stakeholders in the agri-food sector were expected to be uppermost in the process as we moved forward.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/planning-future-direction6/6/2008Producing food in Ontario is a demanding process, and it gets more demanding when some of the partners fail to do their jobs.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/better-managing-wildlife5/14/2008It was encouraging to hear Prime Minister Harper outline government plans to overhaul and strengthen Canada’s product safety laws recently. Increased consumer safety and protection appear to be the basis for the plan.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Considering-consumer-concerns4/10/2008When the name Bill Stewart is mentioned, farmers fondly remember him as the minister of agriculture in the Conservative Government of Premier John Robarts. Most farmers will go on to say Bill Stewart was the best minister of agriculture Ontario ever had.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Cost-Based-Marketing-OFA-Commentary #10083/6/2008The legislation is a blunt instrument meant to preserve farmland. Unfortunately it does not ensure farm viability. So, in fact, the Greenbelt Act does not protect the activity of farming on the protected land.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Looking-at-the-Greenbelt3/1/2008Those of us involved in agriculture support a ban on irresponsible uses of pesticides.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Safe-use-of-pest-control-products2/21/2008Since its introduction in 1993, the Environmental Farm Plan program has worked with 30,000 Ontario farmers, all anxious to improve the environment on their farms.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/funding-valuable-program2/15/2008The Ontario Federation of Agriculture has been encouraging the establishment of agricultural advisory councils in all municipalities with a farming-based economy.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ag-advisory-committees8/9/2007Canadian consumers have a number of individuals and organizations looking out for their health and safety through domestic food production, processing and marketing chain. Unfortunately, the same isn’t true for food imports arriving in our stores from around the world.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Matching-Food-Safety-Standards5/31/2007Keeping control of farming’s input costs is an important contributor to a healthy bottom line for farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Managing-Farm-Input-Costs 5/16/2007Having a safe and secure supply of food is as important to all of us as life itself. If there’s something wrong with our food, then invariably there will be something wrong with us – either short or long term.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ensuring-safe-food-supply4/20/2007The issue at stake is not only the future of food production in Canada, but also the state of the entire rural economy.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/onfarm-hazard-analysis10/26/2006The recent collapse of negotiations at the World Trade Organization was probably no great surprise to anyone familiar with agriculture’s international face.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/what-follows-wto-collapse7/27/2006As farms and farming become increasingly complex, farmers find themselves dealing with increasingly complex situationshttp://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/health-and-safety-modern-farms2/22/2006We’re concerned the CAs may be using the new generic regulations as a tool to place additional restrictions on farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/seeking-MNR-action-to-control-CA1/23/2006The complexities of negotiating agricultural agreements at the international level were discussed at a two-day conference in Toronto recently.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/understanding-trade-negotiations12/8/2005Farmers across Ontario are responding to the Ontario government’s legislation to upgrade their operations’ capabilities to manage nutrients.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/meeting-the-commitment9/27/2005Efforts to bring affordable and adequate child care facilities to rural Ontario continues to be a focus of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/rural-child-care-languishes8/11/2005Agriculture and a healthy environment have long been recognized as successful working partners in Ontario. Farmers are custodians of the land and have been doing what is right for the environment for years.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Environmental-incentives7/28/2005Ontario farmers who have laboured long and hard to gain support for renewable fuels in Ontario are seeing some gains today with the Ontario government’s announcement boosting Ethanol production in Ontario, says Ron Bonnett.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/A-Long-Term-Plan-for-Ethanol-Benefits-Rural Communities-Farmers-and-the-Environment6/17/2005Ontario agriculture took a major step forward with its food safety and health initiatives when Hon. Steve Peters announced the creation of the Chief Veterinarian of Ontario office recently. http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/A-step-forward-in-food-safety6/16/2005Ontario farmers can compete with any food imports into Canada – competition is good, and consumers want the expanded selection of produce available. What Ontario farmers don’t appreciate is the unfair competitive advantage some of these imports represent.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/producer-needs-protection6/6/2005Our government should be leading the way with research that will give citizens improved options for dealing with their waste. Aggressive research to find alternatives to landfills is becoming increasingly important.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/managing-solid-waste5/26/2005Ontario farmers have always had a strong urge to do everything possible to preserve and protect the environment. Now there’s additional financial incentive to get that work done.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/funding-to-expand-EFP4/21/2005Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food (AAFC), Hon. Andy Mitchell, announced more than $57 million in funding for the next generation of Environmental Farm Plans for Ontario farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/EFP-program-in-ontario4/18/2005On a neatly manicured dairy farm just east of here in Bruce County, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food (AAFC), Hon. Andy Mitchell, announced more than $57 million in funding for the next generation of Environmental Farm Plans for Ontario farmers on Saturday, April 16.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-card-now-good-for-RST-exemption4/1/2005Recent postings by the Ministry of Natural Resources on the Environmental Bill of Rights Registry are a cause for concern for many Ontario farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/MNR-wolf-strategy-a-is-concern12/29/2004When a family member decides to buy part or all of a family-owned farming operation, there’s one less thing to contend with now, thanks to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Land-Transfer-Tax-Change 5/5/2004Ontario Premier McGuinty and Ag Minister Steve Peters, meeting with leaders of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/farm-agenda-to-Premier-McGuinty4/23/2004http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-Safety-Protects-Lives9/1/2003Hon. Lyle Vanclief, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, has said he wants every farm in Canada to have an EFP by 2005.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/next-generation-EFP6/23/2003Early this year some new terminology emerged on the farm safety net scene – Business Risk Management and the Agricultural Policy Framework.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/managing-farming's-risks6/17/2003Ontario’s urban consumers feel positive when told that farmers are using Environmental Farm Plans and meeting nutrient management and animal care standards.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Ont-urban-consumers-encouraged4/26/2003Many expressed concerns with the government's schedule for implementation of the regulations – they said more time is needed to ensure a thorough exploration of the implications of the legislation and its regulations is necessary.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/farmers-imput-on-nutrient-management12/11/2002Farmers have always recognized their individual responsibilities to nature and the environment. Why wouldn’t we -- as farmers we depend totally on the environment for our living.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/different-standards-for-farmers9/25/2002At a time when an increasing number of Ontario farmers are beginning to feel comfortable with the idea of nutrient management legislation from the Provincial Government, more and more municipalities are rushing to enact their own forms of nutrient management laws.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/nutrient-management-double-standard8/26/2002Dramatic changes in demographics in rural Ontario are resulting in a multitude of new challenges for Ontario farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Municipal-Impacts-on-Agriculture7/31/2002Being able to plan several years in advance for the Environmental Farm Plan program will be so much better than going one year at a time.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/getting-on-with-the-jobs7/9/2002Now that Bill 81, Ontario’s Nutrient Management Act, has achieved third reading and passage by the Ontario Legislature, development of appropriate regulations to make the legislation workable on Ontario farms will be the next area of concern for the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/development-of-regualtions-should-follow-soon7/1/2002Justice O’Connor, in his report, recognizes that farmers and their organizations have been "proactive in their efforts to improve the environment," Fitzgibbon says, and this has been accomplished through the use of "sound, science-based research."http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Farm-community-encouraged-by-Walkerton-report5/2/2002"We dazzled them with science, but provided them with insight", said Jack Wilkinson, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/ofa-details-of-environmental-nutrient-management-planning10/31/2001The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is pleased to see the Ontario Government intends to introduce a comprehensive nutrient management strategy that will include environmental protection guidelines to the province’s 56,000 farmers.http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/OFA-Welcomes-environmental-guidelines-plan5/1/2001"This proposed legislation closely mirrors much of what Ontario farmers and their organizations have been seeking," says Bill Mailloux, Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).http://ofa-on-ca.rkd.ca/media/news/Nutrien-Management-Act-Reflects-OFA-Input1/1/2001