Ontario Agriculture

The network for agriculture in Ontario, Canada

Agricorp too heavy handed?

This past month a new policy from Agricorp was brought to my attention that has resulted in some board members of various agricultural commodity groups to resign. Apparently the new rules state that you either work for Agricorp or you can sit on a local volunteer agricultural organization board of directors - but not both.
It went over worse than a "lead balloon" (so to speak) locally. It seems convenient that Agricorp developed policies that benefit the organization but does not good for the agricultural community. Conflict of Interest is the excuse. See the article written by Better Farming for further explanation.
Is Agricorp taking it too far or should we all quit our local boards when a potential conflict of interest may occur?

Views: 220

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by John Schwartzentruber on January 7, 2010 at 2:36am
How could anyone say that god is too heavy handed?
Permalink Reply by Ken McCormack on January 31, 2010 at 3:35pm
This does seem a bit over the top. I can see some senior positions or Agricorp directors being restricted, But all staff? Many local NFP agriculture groups are hurting for organizers now. To cut them further is to eliminate them. This industry is in a downward spiral for the small producer.

With all those who keep demanding audits of Agricorp I can only say that one was completed and clearly showed Agricorp was not given the resources to develop the system they need for modern programs. The CAIS database is being used for purposes it was never intended. The audit made excellent recommendations. We do not need more audits, we now need the same people that demanded the audits to demand the government give Agricorp some one time additional funding to implement the auditor's report. After all Agricorp has wisely not taken funds from the farm programs to use for developing processes from the report, let's give them credit where it is due and help them out to serve us better.

▶ Reply to Discussion

RSS

Agriculture Headlines from Farms.com Canada East News - click on title for full story

Update on AAFC Staffing Reductions and Canola Research

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)’s decision to close multiple research stations and reduce staff across the country is alarming. Consultation is urgently needed so research funders understand the impacts of the cuts, explore alternatives where needed, and identify paths forward. AAFC researchers and facilities are world-class, and they have played a crucial role in advancing canola production for Canadian farmers. Alberta Canola, Manitoba Canola Growers and SaskOilseeds expresses our heartfelt gratitude to the AAFC researchers, technicians, and other supporting staff who have contributed to growth and profitability of the canola sector in Canada. Canadian farmers have earned Canada’s place as a leading oilseed supplier, with canola contributing billions to the Canadian economy; these government cuts raise serious questions about the support needed to sustain that success. Canola growers invest millions of dollars per year in research projects, many of which are being led and

Joint Letter on the Closure of Federal Agricultural Research Centres

We are writing to express our deep disappointment with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s recent decision to close three federal research and development centres and four satellite research farms across Canada, including the research and development centre in Lacombe, Alberta. Research and development are critical to advancing industries and economies by addressing current challenges and building resilience for the future and has played a vital role in growing agricultural exports to $100.3 billion in 2024 (AAFC, 2025). In the context of today’s global environment and declining productivity for Canadian agriculture, it is more important than ever to support domestic research capacity to ensure Canada remains a leader in agriculture for years to come. Public investment in agricultural research has historically delivered some of the highest economic returns of any government expenditure. Independent studies consistently demonstrate that agricultural research and development generates st

Alberta Canola Announces Board Leadership After 36th AGM

Alberta Canola Producers Commission held its 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, during the CrossRoads Crop Conference in Edmonton. Following the AGM, the Board re-elected Andre Harpe of Valhalla Centre, as Chair and elected Christine McKee of Stirling as Vice Chair. Harpe also recognized and thanked outgoing directors Christi Friesen and Paula Law for their dedicated service. Friesen represented growers in Region 1, bringing energy, thoughtful perspective, and a strong commitment to collaboration. Law served growers in Region 7 and was a respected voice on the Board, known for her leadership, vision, and steady focus on the best interests of Alberta’s canola growers. The Board also welcomed Chris Kamphuis of Worsley as the new director for Region 1 and Jason Lenz of Bentley as the new director for Region 7.

Canadian Olympic ties to ag

From athletes to officials, Canada’s ag sector will be represented in Italy

Nutrien Names Chris Reynolds Global Sales Leader

Nutrien has named Chris Reynolds as EVP Global Sales to unite sales teams worldwide improve efficiency and strengthen customer value as part of a planned leadership transition.

© 2026   Created by Darren Marsland.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service