MNR explores long term exemption for agriculture from habitat protection provisions Wednesday, May 7, 2014 by SUSAN MANN The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources is seeking comments on a plan to continue agriculture’s exemption to the Endangered Species Act’s habitat protection provisions for the bobolink and eastern meadowlark for 14 more months. The current exemption is due to expire in October but under the ministry’s proposal, it would be extended until December 2015. That will give the ministry time to consult the public and stakeholders on the development of a protection and recovery plan for the two ground nesting bird species. It will also give the ministry time to evaluate the Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark Round Table’s recommendations. Among the recommendations of that advisory group, made up of farmers, conservation group representatives, along with the industrial and development sectors, is an “integrated solution package’ that includes a 10-year extension of the current exemption for agriculture, it says in the ministry’s notice on the Environmental Registry. The ministry is actively considering the recommendations in the round table’s report, the notice says. Mark Wales, Ontario Federation of Agriculture president, says “they’re trying to figure out how to implement the 10-year exemption so the 14 months is just buying them some time to finish that process.” The 14-month extension “gives them (the ministry) plenty of time to then put in the 10-year exemption for agriculture,” he says, noting the 10-year exemption for agriculture is the only viable solution. “There is no other option.” The ministry’s notice says hay and pasture lands provide the greatest percentage of bobolink and eastern meadowlark habitat in Ontario. In two previous regulations, the Ontario government gave an exemption period of about three years. The exemption means the protection provisions of the Endangered Species Act do not apply to agricultural operations for bobolink and meadowlark habitats. Comments are due by June 2. BF Quality Meats creditors meeting scheduled for later this month University receives first donation towards new beneficial insect health centre
Canada Packers Posts Strong Volume Growth and Profitability in First Year as Standalone Company Tuesday, March 17, 2026 Canada Packers Inc., recently split off from Maple Leaf Foods, reported its financial results earlier this month for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2025, highlighting increased hog volumes, steady sales growth and disciplined financial execution. In the fourth quarter of 2025,... Read this article online
Canada’s Real Seasons (According to Farmers Who Actually Live Here) Monday, March 16, 2026 According to a chart that’s been making the rounds on social media, courtesy of The Weather Network—the Canadian calendar has officially been updated. Apparently, we no longer live by the simple rhythm of winter, spring, summer, and fall. Instead, we now rotate through such crowd... Read this article online
Ontario Equine Industry Drives Rural Economy Monday, March 16, 2026 A new economic study has revealed the major contribution of Ontario’s equine agricultural sector to the province’s economy and rural communities. The Ontario Equine Agricultural Economic Impact Study Report provides the first comprehensive evaluation of the industry since 2010 and offers... Read this article online
Julia Montgomery Named OVC Dean Monday, March 16, 2026 The University of Guelph has announced the appointment of Dr. Julia Montgomery as the new dean of the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC).She will begin her five-year leadership term on June 15, 2026.The appointment marks an important step for one of Canada’s most respected veterinary... Read this article online
Canada Seeks Agriculture Champions for Hall of Fame Sunday, March 15, 2026 The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association is inviting nominations for individuals who have made lasting and meaningful contributions to the agriculture and food industry in Canada. The organization is seeking candidates for the 2026 class of inductees, with nominations accepted... Read this article online