Province extends grains and oilseeds risk management program Friday, July 30, 2010 by BETTER FARMING STAFFOntario grain and oilseeds’ farmers risk management pilot project is getting a reprieve, for now.Friday morning, Ontario Agriculture Minister Carol Mitchell announced that the expired program, begun in 2007, would be extended to the 2010 crop year. She made the announcement in front of a grain elevator on the farm of Larry Cowan, Middlesex County.The Ontario agriculture ministry’s website says prices for grains and oilseeds have dropped more than 25 per cent this year “significantly below the cost of production.” The ministry announcement says: "Participation in the extended program is open to farmers who received assistance in 2008 and/or in 2009, as well as those who began farming on or after January 1, 2008. "In a press release from Grain Farmers of Ontario, representing wheat, corn and soybean producers, Leo Guilbeault says “RMP is a simple cost effective solution to a complex problem that works.” Essex County farmer Guilbeault is the chair of Ontario Grains & Oilseeds, which also represents white and coloured bean producers, canola growers and seed corn producers.“Without the Ontario government’s leadership through RMP,” Guilbeault added in the press release, “we would be losing farms and losing important food production that helps employ 40,000 Ontarians.”Grain Farmers of Ontario chair Don Kenny was similarly supportive. “”RMP stands out as an example of how great things can be achieved when industry and government work together, sharing the risks, and sharing the rewards.”Former Ontario Agriculture Minister Leona Dombrowsky announced the pilot project in July, 2007. The province was never able to get the federal government to take part. Today’s agriculture ministry announcement says: “Building on discussions at the recent meeting of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture earlier this month, Ontario will continue to encourage the federal government to work with Ontario farmers to develop stable, predictable, bankable programs that support all agricultural sectors.” BF Kerr venture kaput Groups oppose solar rate cut
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