Bill's defeat brings grain farmers relief Thursday, February 10, 2011 by KRISTIAN PARTINGTONGrain Farmers of Ontario’s chief spokesman says his organization is “quite pleased” a controversial bill that would have added another step into the approval process for genetically engineered seeds was defeated Wednesday in the House of Commons. Up for its third and final reading, private member's bill C-474 called for “an analysis of potential harm to export markets be conducted before the sale of any new genetically engineered seed is permitted,” for use in Canada. Parliament rejected the motion with 178 members voting for it and 98 against.Once governments bring “subjectivity into the registration process you get behind the game competitively with other countries,” said Barry Senft, Grain Farmers’ CEO. Ontario growers are already satisfying markets for both genetically engineered and traditional products without having to resort to “an overall ban or bringing this uncertainty into the registration process,” he added. He pointed to identity preserved and non-GMO soybeans as an example of “a significant, program within Ontario that customers have the option” of utilizing.In an email issued Wednesday by his press secretary, federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz called the bill’s defeat, “good news for farmers,” and said it was critical “that our system remain based firmly in science.” “Economics is a science as well and you have to make sure that if you introduce something into the market that people are going to be able to make money off it,” said NDP MP Alex Atamanenko, the bill's sponsor, following the vote. Atamanenko noted he's had more than 13,000 letters and emails of support and various organizations across the country have come out in support of his bill.“This debate has only just started,” he said. BF Biodiesel rules a boost for farming Group wants resolution on agricultural business risk management
Grape Growers 40th Annual Celebrity Luncheon has Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser Thursday, July 17, 2025 The Grape Growers of Ontario’s marks the opening of the by showcasing Canadian personalities and celebrating the annual grape harvest. This year, in partnership with Meridian Credit Union, Ontario’s largest credit union and the third largest in Canada, the Grape Growers of Ontario... Read this article online
Ontario Funds 28 Agri Food Research Projects Thursday, July 17, 2025 Ontario has announced $5.4 million in funding for 28 innovative research projects at the University of Guelph, aiming to protect farmers, enhance the food supply chain, and foster environmental sustainability. This investment comes from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness... Read this article online
Boost Crop Yields with Smart Fertilization Thursday, July 17, 2025 Soil testing is a valuable tool for managing crop nutrition, especially in Ontario where nutrient levels play a crucial role in crop yields. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFA), fertilizer recommendations based on soil test results can vary depending on... Read this article online
HJV Equipment Now Full-Line PTx Trimble Dealer Thursday, July 17, 2025 HJV Equipment is thrilled to announce its designation as a full-line PTx Trimble dealer. This strategic move enhances the company’s capability to offer advanced precision agriculture technology, catering to the growing needs of modern farmers. As part of this expansion, HJV Equipment... Read this article online
Ontario Tender Fruit Season off to a Strong Start Monday, July 14, 2025 Ontario's 2025 tender fruit and table grape season is off to a promising start reports the Ontario Tender Fruit and Fresh Grape Growers. While the weather may be too hot for some farmers, it has has been ideal for producing a sweet and juicy crop. A cooler-than-usual spring delayed the... Read this article online