Ag Industry News Ontario

Ontario farmers intend to plant 3.137 million soybean acres -- a new record high, according to the 2024 Farms.com Risk Management Ontario farmer survey, conducted January 6th - March 16th, 2024, with a total of 412 respondents. The survey is projecting that Ontario farmers intend to plant 6.380 million acres of corn, soybeans and all wheat combined this year, slightly lower than last year. This is in line with the average at 6.3 million acres but slightly lower than 2019 at 6.415 million acres. Intended Ontario corn acres in 2024 are expected to fall 2.26% to 2.210 million acres slightly below the 5-year average vs. 2024 but soybean acres are up 7.7% at 3.137 million acres to a new record high! Lower inputs in soybeans with an IP premium of $5 - $6/bu is attracting more acres in 2024. Wheat acres are down 13.53%. Wheat acres are down due to a challenging 2023 soybean harvest, lower economics and it was a wet fall. The Farms.com Risk Management survey is projecting more corn, soybean and less wheat acres than Statistics Canada. “Corn acres in Ontario are holding despite being forecasted lower following a record yield in 2023, the second in three years with above average yields," says Moe Agostino, Chief Commodity Strategist with Farms.com Risk Management. The highlights in the survey show HRS wheat up 30%, oat acres +33.95% and SRW wheat down 13.30%. “Farmers in most areas had a good corn crop last year and that is holding corn acres on many farms where soybeans tend to be more variable on sand to variable soils,” explains Stephen Denys, Director of Business Management, Maizex Seeds. “In more clay soil-based counties like Essex, Lambton, Haldimand we have heard about more acres to soybeans versus corn given yield potential. This also applies to farmers who do not own a corn dryer and where drying costs were high last fall and not likely to change this year with the carbon tax. That said, corn will still pay the bills on many farms given the yield potential in a normal year. “ Lower inputs and higher premiums are attracting more soybean acres. Many smaller farmers are looking at switching to soybeans due to lower input costs and higher IP soybean premiums at $5-6/bu. “2024 Ontario wheat acres are down because of economics with a -$40+/acre loss without straw does not pay the bills,” explains Henry Prinzen, Chief Agronomist for Maizex Seeds. “Any borderline corn acres will go to soybeans, and to a large degree most farmers are sticking to a rotation but the $5-$6/premium to grow IP soybeans remains a sweet deal. If you do not own a planter or combine acres will switch to soybeans.” According to Agronomist Peter Johnson (aka Wheat Pete), “many of the farms with heavy soils are swi

As many farmers would agree, soil sampling is an important aspect of modern-day farming. AMS, Inc., a family-owned company since 1942, now in its 4th generation, introduces the Auto-Field Sampler (AFS), a cutting-edge solution designed to modernize the agricultural industry's soil sampling process. The AFS, a hydraulic-driven soil core sampling machine, retrieves a 7/8-inch diameter soil core from depths of 0 to 12 inches within a mere 5.5 seconds. This performance may vary depending on the current soil conditions. The development of the AFS focused on simplicity and user-friendliness, requiring minimal operational knowledge to get started. This is a significant step forward compared to traditional manual soil sampling techniques. The AFS not only covers more acreage in less time but also drastically reduces the physical strain on the user, a common complaint with manual sampling. Operating the AFS is simple. From the comfort of your carrier vehicle's seat, using a simple control switch, you can drive the soil probe into the ground and retrieve it, all with the push of a button. Upon retrieval, the soil core is automatically deposited into a collection container designed for a composite sample. This container can hold between six to ten samples before reaching capacity. When full, the contents can be easily emptied into boxes or bags for further analysis. The container can then be reinserted into the AFS, ready for continued sampling.The AFS allows for the adjustment of sampling depths as required. The Auto-Field Sampler (AFS) from AMS, Inc. is a cool tool because it represents a significant advancement in agricultural soil sampling technology. By making soil sample collection faster, easier, and more efficient, the AFS is set to become an indispensable tool for modern agriculture.

Someone contact Bonnie Tyler because there’s a total eclipse coming. On April 8, a solar eclipse, when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, will occur in the afternoon. The event is scheduled to happen in Ontario beginning around 2:00pm. Niagara Falls, Ont., is noted as the best place to see the eclipse, with the sun being fully eclipsed for roughly three minutes from 3:20 and 3:23pm. Farmers will be watching with anticipation. “I’m looking forward to this one because it’s going to be a total eclipse,” Stuart McCall, owner of McGrows Farms & Gardens in Garson, Ont., told Farms.com. “I’m expecting some dramatic changes.” When an eclipse last occurred in 2017, McCall noted and graphed the changes on his farm. “We have a 10-kilowatt solar power generation system on the roof of the house,” he said. “Before the eclipse we were operating at around 8,700 kilowatts. When the eclipse hit, that (energy number) dropped to under 3,000 kilowatts. And that wasn’t even a full eclipse, so I’m interested to see what readings we get this time around.” The temperature in his greenhouse dropped about 15 degrees. And the re

Canadians are coming to grips with an increase to the national carbon tax. On April 1, the price on pollution increased by $15 per tonne from $65 to $80 per tonne. By 2030, it’s expected the carbon tax will cost $170 per tonne. Farmers like Ethan Wallace, a dairy and grain farmer from Huron County, are concerned about what the increased costs will mean to their operations. “This tax is a direct draw on producers’ income,” he told Farms.com. “It’s a consumption tax that’s meant to change our behaviour and move us away from fossil fuels. But in agriculture there’s no alternative. I can’t heat my barn or dry my grain or fuel my tractors with anything except fossil fuels.” For clarification, Canadian farmers are already exempt from paying the carbon tax on gasoline and diesel used in farm vehicles. In Ontario, the price of gas and diesel increased by about 3.3 cents and 4 cents per litre, respectively on April 1. And the carbon tax on natural gas went up to 15.25 cents per cubic metre. These increases and their potential impact on Canadian farms is a perfect example of why Bill C-234 needs to pass, Wallace said. The bill, which would remove th

As the growing season takes root across Ontario, fruit and vegetable producers are already laying the groundwork for a successful harvest. A key part of their preparation is addressing the perennial challenge of securing enough labour to manage the intensive demands of planting, tending, and harvesting crops. This challenge is met with a solution that has a rich history and critical impact on Canada's food supply: the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). Established over 50 years ago, SAWP has become an essential component in Ontario agriculture, acting as a bridge between local labour shortages and the need for a reliable workforce. This year, about 18,000 seasonal workers from countries including Mexico, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Eastern Caribbean are expected to join Ontario's farms. Their arrival is not just a boon for the approximately 1,100 farms that will benefit from their labour but also for Canadian families who enjoy fresh, local produce as a result. The reliance on SAWP highlights a broader issue within the agricultural sector: a significant shortage of domestic workers. This gap in the workforce is not just a logistical problem for farmers; it represents a substantial economic loss, estimated at around $1.5 billion annually. This shortfall affects not only individual farms but also Canada's competitive standing in the global market. Ken Forth, president of F.A.R.M.S. (not affiliated with this website), is at the forefront of this issue, advocating for the importance of SAWP in ensuring the resilience and success of Ontario's agricultural sector. In a time when food security and sustainable local production are more crucial than ever, the program's role in supporting farmers is invaluable. Through programs like SAWP, Ontario's agricultural community continues to thrive, providing essential resources for both local communities and the broader Canadian population.

Canadian agriculture has received a significant boost from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with the recent announcement to increase the interest-free portion of the Advanced Payments Program (APP) to $250,000 says the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA). The initiative is designed to support farmers by providing loans that help manage cash-flow challenges and cover increased production costs effectively. Historically, in response to the pandemic's economic impact, the government had elevated the interest-free loan amount to $250,000 in 2022, and then to $350,000 in 2023, aiming to assist farmers with the soaring expenses for essential inputs like fertilizer and fuel. There were plans to revert the interest-free portion back to $100,000 in 2024, which had raised concerns among the farming community. The CFA has been at the forefront, vocally advocating for the retention of the increased interest-free portion, citing the severe inflationary pressures that have burdened producers since the original $100,000 cap was instituted. CFA President, Keith Currie, expressed relief and approval of the announcement, highlighting the crucial timing and financial relief it provides to farmers, who must often invest in the next season's production without having received payment for the previous season. This move has been seen as a direct response to the advocacy and needs of the farming community, reflecting an understanding of the financial pressures faced in modern agriculture. The decision to maintain the interest-free loan amount at $250,000 is viewed as a step towards establishing a new baseline for future interest-free advances, with hopes that the program will continue to adapt to the evolving economic landscape faced by Canadian farmers. The enhancement of the APP reflects a commitment by the Canadian government to support the agriculture sector's sustainability and profitability. It acknowledges the essential role farmers play in the economy and the unique financial challenges they face, especially in an era of increasing costs and economic uncertainty. The farming community has welcomed this development, viewing it as a vital support mechanism for ensuring the continuity and success of Canadian agriculture. See related story: Grain Farmers of Ontario acknowledge the federal increase to the Advance Payments Program

Image by krystianwin from Pixabay The Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) have thanked Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Minister Lawrence MacAulay for increasing the interest-free limit of the for this year. The gives producers access to cash advances of up to $1 million based on the expected value of their crop or other agricultural product. Farmers receive the first $100,000 interest-free, and the AAFC can raise that limit if the season warrants it. This year, the limit of the interest-free portion has been raised to $250,000. Under the , cash advances are calculated based on up to 50 percent of the anticipated market value of eligible agricultural products that will be produced or are in storage. Advances are available on over 500 crop and livestock products across Canada. “Farmers face a lot of uncertainties and unpredictability. When the weather is bad or prices are low, Ontario’s family farms can be quickly impacted. We appreciate the government’s decision to increase this limit and the access to interest-free loans this will provide farmers,” said Jeff Harrison, Chair of the GFO. He continued: “Grain Farmers of Ontario has been advocating to increase the limit for some time, and it is good to see that hard work pay off. We look forward to working with the government on continued improvements to this and other risk programs and to any adjustments that might need to be made in the future.” In 2022, due to exceptional circumstances, the Government of Canada increased the interest-free portion of the from $100,000 to $250,000 for the 2022 and 2023 program years. As pressures compounded in 2023, the limit was further increased from $250,000 to $350,000 for the 2023 program year. The GFO is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers. For more information on the GFO, visit www.gfo.ca.

By Farms.com World Dairy Expo proudly reveals the distinguished recipients of the 2024 Expo Recognition Awards. These remarkable individuals, chosen by their peers for their outstanding contributions to both the dairy industry and their communities, will be formally acknowledged during the Recognition Awards Banquet at the World Dairy Expo on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Banquet tickets will be available at www.worlddairyexpo.com beginning on July 1. Acknowledged as the International Person of the Year is Paul Larmer, hailing from Guelph, Ontario, Canada, and affiliated with Semex. With a career spanning four decades, Larmer has been a driving force in dairy cattle genetics, leaving a significant mark on a global scale. Beginning his journey in the genetics industry in 1984, Larmer held pivotal roles at United Breeders Inc., Semex Alliance, and Alta Genetics Inc. before assuming the position of Chief Executive Officer at Semex in 2007. During his tenure, Larmer steered Semex to unparalleled success, achieving a remarkable 17 consecutive years of record-breaking sales and revenues. Under his leadership, Semex introduced six Millionaire Sires to the industry and spearheaded groundbreaking research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing dairy technology and genetics worldwide. Noteworthy projects included advancements in China's dairy technology and genetics, the establishment of production centers in Hungary and Brazil, and the pioneering introduction of a Methane Efficiency Index to promote industry sustainability globally. Though Larmer retired from his role as CEO in December 2023, he continues to serve as an Executive Advisor, bringing invaluable expertise to Semex. World Dairy Expo, renowned as the premier gathering of the global dairy community, provides an unparalleled platform for learning, networking, commerce, and competition. Scheduled to take place in Madison, Wis. from October 1-4, 2024, the event promises dairy producers an immersive experience featuring the world's largest dairy-focused trade show, top-tier dairy cattle showcase, informative seminars, and opportunities for industry networking and collaboration.

Just as only you know when you're thirsty, so too are plants the only ones that know when they require water. If only there was a way to communicate with a plant to find out when exactly that is. But wait! Say hello to , a precision agriculture technology—an easy-to-install water sensor—that provides accurate, real-time feedback on plant thirst, allowing farmers to make fast decisions to better benefit their crops. Developing a way to acquire data directly from plants, FloraPulse is now able to provide ag professionals such as woody crop owners and managers, nut and dry fruit growers, fresh fruit growers, commercial orchard/vineyard operators, government and university researchers, certified crop consultants, scientists, and more with accurate, automated measurements on plant water status. It said its technology works best—right now—for orchards and vineyards, with the company saying it is ideal for such crops as almonds, hazelnuts, wine grapes, apples, peaches, and berries. The system is comprised of patented hardware, software, and technical support for each user to directly manage water stress, reducing water and labor costs and risks while increasing yields, crop quality, and environmental health. FloraPulse provides growers and researchers with accurate and trusted automated measurements of water stress directly from trees and vines. The patented technology—used worldwide—provides science-based advice to optimize irrigation, increase profits, and valuable research data. The was developed via the research and collaboration of Cornell University’s emeritus professor of horticulture, Alan Lakso, Director of the Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Abraham Strook, and mechanical engineering Ph.D. and technology developer, Michael Santiago. “FloraPulse is a game-changer for the entire agricultural industry,” said Lakso. “After years of research and development, our team created the first simple-to-use device that provides farmers and researchers with real-time data that helps growers and researchers achieve efficient water use in the face of variable climate conditions.” The company’s revolutionary real-time water sensing technology allows for more resilient plant health systems that enhance our agricultural system and farmers’ bottom lines. The team offers premium technical support and assistance. For more information, visit www.florapulse.com.

By Ryan Ridley Managing Editor, Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest The first issue of 2024 is upon us for the Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest. The Spring 2024 issue will be released within a couple of weeks, and it is packed with new innovations from some of the biggest names in the industry. This year has not disappointed so far, and after speaking with dozens of companies at the 2024 National Farm Machinery Show (NFMS), I am convinced the best is yet to come. As previously reported by our very own Diego Flammini, Farms.com yielded more than 70 videos from the NFMS and will be releasing special edition Machinery Newsletters in the coming weeks—stay tuned for that. Precision agriculture and ag technology ran wild at the NFMS this year, so much so that the 2024 Spring Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest will have a special PAG Tech Clips section featuring our top 10 tech videos from the event. Our main articles will cover a few newly released products, including Case IH’s new AF11 combine and Precision Planting’s new CornerStone planting system. Cannot forget about Kinze’s brand-new 5670 pivot fold planter as well as real-time spot spraying tech from Trimble-owned Bilberry. Oh, and Massey Ferguson has retrofit baler tech, SimplEbale, that brings large-square bale technology to small-square balers. We are sure you have heard of John Deere partnering with SpaceX, but we provide a unique angle on that as well. Our team cannot wait for you to get your hands on...get your keyboards/mouses on…the Spring 2024 Precision Ag Digital Digest. Refer to this link in a week or so and the new issue will be there! In the meantime, flip through our Winter 2023/2024 issue, it has lots of good stuff.

Braxten Breed Farms.com Intern Whether it’s storing fertilizer, seed, or whatever it may be, farmers may often accumulate pallets that are no longer required – taking up valuable space inside the barn or workshop. So instead of improperly breaking them down or maybe even giving them away, have you ever thought about recycling the pallets and using the materials for future projects on the farm? The pallet buster can help farmers tackle these ugly, space-consuming, and unsafe pallets. Global Industrial Deluxe Pallet Buster and Skid Breaker is a lightweight tool that can help farmers break down pallets quickly, safely, and easily. The unique steel constructed dual pronged forks gives a farmer the ability to pull out nails with ease, while keeping the boards of the pallet undamaged. Creating materials for a farmer that can be incorporated in future projects on farm. It can also be used when salvaging old barns, with one satisfied farmer saying, “Took an entire side off a medium sized barn in about an hour without destroying the tongue and groove. Started at the bottom and worked my way up.” The Pallet Buster weighs less than 15lbs (7 kilos) and is made of durable construction steel with a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) handle, measuring 45 inches (1.15 metres) in length. It also comes with a one-year warranty. For more information, watch this Pallet Buster and Skid Breaker video.

Braxten Breen Farms.com Intern Being a farmer isn’t the cleanest job in the world because working in agriculture means working with grease and dirt. And it is not just grease, farmers are consistently working in messing conditions daily on the farm. Dirt and grease get on your clothes, hands, and even in your house. That is where the Heavy-Duty Cleaning Wipes from Tub O’ Towels will help you clean up almost any surface. Tub O’ Towels have developed cleaning wipes that are designed for tough grease and dirt, but at the same time are safe for your hands and skin. The Tub O’ Towels wipes can be used in interiors & exteriors, leather, tools, lawn/garden equipment, etc. Tough on dirt, gentle on hands. The 10”x12” wipes are oversized and soaked in a special solution. But the solution also contains aloe, vitamin E and lanolin, resulting in safe use for your hands. The Tub O’ Towels vapor lock canister minimizes solution evaporation features a heavy gauge plastic with locking lid. The Tub O’ Towels are great for scrubbing and absorbing dirt, and they are made with a durable fiber weave which wicks up moisture. For more information, watch this Tub O’ Towels video.

Braxten Breen Farms.com Intern What farmer doesn’t need a utility knife? It is an essential tool that sits in a farmer’s pocket until needed. The complaint about many utility knives is that after a while the blade of the utility knife becomes dull. Before a farmer knows it, the blade can no longer make a good, quick cut. Tough Built had the innovative idea to create a quick-reloading blade mechanism, that easily reloads a mag of blades in the flick of a switch. The Reload Utility Knife + 2 Blade Mags is a robust, non-slip grip utility knife that includes the knife, 2 blades magazines, one full of straight blades, and the other full of hook nose blades. This quick-reloading mechanism is operated by the safe release button, allowing blades to be removed with a pinch and pull of the farmers hand, where then the farmer can take the fresh mag and drive it up the knife retracting the safety button back into place. Looking towards the magazine and blades itself, the utility knife comes with 2 fully loaded individual magazines. Each magazine is equipped with 5 action-ready blades in the upper chamber of the mag, where additionally in the lower storage reservoir with a snapshot door, there are 10 extra blades in each magazine. The convenience of this utility knife is a step up from its competitors, and is compatible to operate with hawkbill, German curve, serrated blades as well. For more information, watch this video about this handy utility knife.

Corteva AgriScience has launched a new line of Pioneer soybeans in time for the 2024 growing season. Canadian farmers now have limited access to Z-Series Enlist E3 soybeans and the 20 varieties that are part of the lineup for this season, with full commercial availability planned for 2025. “This is a new class of soybean genetics and is in a class all of its own, delivering more yield than our previous A-Series,” Chad Garrod, eastern seeds portfolio manager with Corteva AgriScience, told Farms.com. The varieties range in maturity from 00 to 3.2. Farmers in northern Ontario may choose to grow a 00.5, whereas producers in southern Ontario might choose a 3.2 variety, Garrod said, adding that with 20 varieties available, farmers will be able to find the right variety for their individual operations. Trials show the Z-Series outperforms Pioneer’s A-Series. IMPACT trials from across North America determined the Z-Series soybeans yielded 2.7 bushels per acre higher than the A-Series, and a provided a $35 per acre return on investment. The varieties also have score improvements of 0.5 for SDS and 0.6 for white mould, as well as an increased lodging resistance and more tolerance to iron deficiency chlorosis.

Charlotte Huitema only needs to look across the dinner table to see someone she considers a hero in ag. The egg farmer from Haldimand County considers her mom, Cindy, to be an inspiration for the way she advocates for the industry. “When we built our new barn in 2018, she did a blog for Canadian Poultry Magazine called Egg Farmerette, talking about how to go from a conventional layer housing farm to an enriched housing colony farm. She was telling our story and I thought that was really cool,” Huitema said. “And every year we volunteer at local events in our community, and she’s always answering questions and telling our farm’s story. She leads by example for all of us.” Charlotte also has two sisters and a brother. Though she grew up on her family’s farm, Huitema didn’t know if she’d follow in the family business. Mohawk College recruited her to play on the women’s varsity volleyball team.

Ignore the haters. That’s part of the message Jessica Pfisterer, a hay, cash crop and beef producer from Arthur, Ont., would tell her 12-year-old self. “I’d tell her not to worry about what others say and focus on doing your own thing,” she told Farms.com. “If you just worry about paving your own way then you can find a place in this industry and a seat at the table.” When she was that age and thought about what to do when she grew up, farming wasn’t on Pfisterer’s radar. She grew up in Guelph and figured she’d be doing something in the city. “I didn’t own a pair of rubber boots until I was in my 20s,” she said. “I was very urban focused and that’s where I thought my life would take me. At my wedding my dad said he couldn’t believe all the things I’ve done since meeting my husband. And my uncle said of all his nieces and nephews he’d never thought it would be me to help hook up a trailer hitch.” Together with her husband Ryan, she has two boys, Boone, and Rip. The Pfisterer family (Jessica, Ryan, Boone a

By: Farms.com At the recent 2023-2024 Sollio Next Generation Award Gala, three Ontario farming entities were spotlighted for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector. This prestigious event, known for recognizing the innovative spirit within Canadian agriculture, highlighted the McRae brothers, Luymes Farms, and the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company for their outstanding achievements. Matt & John McRae of Alvinston, and Luymes Farms & Custom Farming of Moorefield, were among the celebrated winners, demonstrating excellence in modern farming practices and community engagement. These farmers exemplify the progressive mindset that drives the agricultural industry forward, combining traditional values with innovative approaches to farming. Matt and John McRae run an 870-acre grain farm while working day jobs outside of the industry. They grow wheat, soybeans, and corn, as well as producing high quality seed for both their customers and their local Agromart retailer. They also manage a maple grove. Luymes Farms & Custom Farming specializes in grain production and contract farming, which has its own 2,000 acres, and services 8,000 acres in 500 fields for neighbouring farms. They are adept at managing their machinery fleet and have extensive knowledge of the specific growing needs in their area. In addition to these remarkable farmers, the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company from Bath, Ontario, was also honored, showcasing the diversity and breadth of agricultural entrepreneurship within the province. Their unique blend of farming and brewing highlights the innovative potential of combining agriculture with other sectors to create unique, marketable products that resonate with consumers. The gala brought together members of the judging panel, including Marilyn Côté, Jean-Philippe Côté, and Normand Lapointe, alongside distinguished guests such as Richard Ferland, President of Sollio Cooperative Group, and Casper Kaastra, CEO of Sollio Agriculture. Their presence underscored the importance of the Sollio Next Generation Award as a cornerstone for recognizing agricultural excellence in Canada. The award, exclusive to Canadian agricultural businesses, included a category for clients of The Agromart Group for the second consecutive year, highlighting Sollio Agriculture's commitment to fostering growth and inno

Braxten Breen Farms.com Intern Pulling heavy loads on the farm is part of everyday life on the farm. Whether it’s loading stock, moving or hauling fallen trees and tree branches, or taking on a variety of farm tasks, it can drain a lot of energy, unless you use your tools to help you out. The Wyeth-Scott Company has produced a durable, yet safest cable puller that can pull a lot of weight. The More Power Puller is 26lb. (11 kilogram) solid ductile iron and steel industrial grade portable hand winch that is proven to perform in demanding environments. The More Power Puller features excellent durability, and won’t bend, break, or collapsing, thereby creating a safe, reliable, heavy-duty tool for the farm. Options for the cable puller include: A 2-ton (4,000 lbs.) capacity OR a 3-ton (6,000 lbs.) capacity Cable rope OR synthetic rope in 20’ or 35’ in length Steel cable rope color OR AmSteel blue rope color For more information about the More Power Puller, watch this video.

Farms.com Photo Credit: As previously reported on Farms.com, new data from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) has found that by 2030 there will be more than 100,000 vacant jobs to fill in the agriculture industry. In 2023, CAHRC found a 15 per cent increase in the number of job vacancies compared to 2022. “This is your chance to help the agriculture industry ensure top talent for the future,” says Kathryn Doan, CVO, Director, Talent Solutions Team at AgCareers.com (a Farms.com company). Aimed to provide valuable data to the agricultural industry for attracting and retaining employees, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is performing an Agricultural Producers Compensation Survey. AgCareers.com is conducting the survey on behalf of CAHRC. CAHRC invites grain, oilseed, dairy, swine, fish, and apiculture producers to participate in this crucial survey. Topics covered will include: Monetary Benefits: Wages for Farm Managers, Farm Supervisors, Farm Workers, Farm Labourers, and Specialized staff. Non-Monetary Benefits: health, dental, vision, relocation, housing, and more! Hiring and retention tactics of flexible scheduling, bonuses, and vacation and sick time The deadline for participation is March 15, 2024. Producers can find out more and take the survey at this link, or contact compensation@agcareers.com for additional information. Participants will receive a copy of the full results to aid in compensation, recruiting, and retention practices, plus they will be entered into a contest for a chance to win a $250 gift card for Mudeas or Durnin Workwear. About AgCareers.com The AgCareers.com mission is to provide global talent solutions in agriculture and food. They strive to “Feed the World with Talent” in the industries they serve. AgCareers.com’s passion is agriculture, demonstrated through their investment in time and resources that engage candidates and employers in the industry. They work to build the pipeline of talent to the industry by expanding knowledge about the breadth of career opportunities in agriculture. For more information, visit www.AgCareers.com. About CAHRC The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is a national, non-profit organization focused on addressing human resource issues facing agricultural businesses across Canada. CAHRC works with industry leaders, governments, and educational stakeholders, to research, develop and communicate solutions to the challenges in employment and skills development in primary agriculture. For more information visit www.cahrc-ccrha.ca.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash The Migrant Community Worker Program will be holding its annual this Sunday, February 25, 2024, in Leamington, Ontario. The primary goal is to bring together diverse organizations and companies in Windsor-Essex County to collectively share vital information and resources that meet the needs of local migrant workers, and conversely, to bring together migrant workers to the services and support available to them and ensure they have barrier-free access to any other resources they would need. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the migrant population, the mission of the Migrant Community Worker Program is to create a collaborative platform that promotes a supportive and informed environment. The one-day event will provide free services, such as general information, legal assistance, and much more. Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024; Time: 3–6 PM; Location: Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot Street West, Leamington, Ontario. The Migrant Worker Community Program (MWCP) seeks to build a stronger community support system for the approximately 20,000 migrant workers who come each year to live and work on Windsor-Essex County farms. The MWCP mission provides information and support to migrant workers by helping them gain educational, social, cultural, and recreational opportunities, while also helping them navigate available support services such as health and wellness, legal aid, and travel and immigration support in Spanish, English, and Tagalog. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, is a project under the Migrant Worker Support Program (MWSP), providing migrant workers with accurate information and access to available services and support, and assisting them in learning about and exercising their rights while in Canada. To learn about the MWCP, visit www.migrantworkercommunityprogram.com. To learn more about the TeaMWork Project, visit www.TeaMWorkProject.ca.