Joe Dales's Blog (72)

Food terminal op-ed from Minister Ernie Hardeman

The Ontario Food Terminal is one of the top wholesale produce markets in North America. Its success is a credit to the people who work there and do a great job, often with limited resources. The Food Terminal is a key part of our agri-food sector, which is an economic driver for the province. Our recent provincial budget clarified the importance of the Food Terminal’s success going forward - not just next year, but for the next 50 years. I want the terminal to be not just the best in the country, but the best in the world.

Processing vegetable growers dismayed at lack of consultation OPVG awaits release of proposed changes to regulated marketing system

Ontario’s processing vegetable growers are disappointed that a major announcement by the province concerning its intent to overhaul the regulated marketing system was made without any input from the grower community.

National Soil Conservation Week

Each year in April, National Soil Conservation Week is celebrated to bring special attention to the role of farmland soil for providing abundant food for consumers. Not to be taken for granted, this year April 21-27 is a reminder that the thin layer of topsoil covering farmers’ fields requires extensive knowledge and superior management skill to ensure our food capacity remains eminent for future generations.

OSCIA Celebrates National Soil Conservation Week

National Soil Conservation Week, championed by the Soil Conservation Council of Canada (SCCC), is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of healthy soil resources to OSCIA members, participants in OSCIA-administered programs, and all Ontarians. “Promotion of soil health and conservation is at the forefront of OSCIA’s applied research priorities, our partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), our recognition of Soil Champions, and our administration of cost-share programs supporting soil health-enhancing best management practices,” says Andrew Graham, Executive Director at OSCIA.

Timing Spring Turn-out

Spring is in the air, and livestock and farmers alike are eager to start the grazing season. Timing that delightful move is critical, as spring grazing management sets up both yield potential of the pasture and the amount of gain achievable for young stock.