As we bid farewell to 2023 and embrace the challenges and opportunities of the coming year, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, took a moment to look back on the past year and share insights into the province’s agricultural achievements and future goals.
Minister Thompson emphasized the crucial role of farmers in shaping the provincial strategy, looking to invest in Ontario’s food security in the coming years and beyond.
This partnership with the federal government will see $1.77 billion put into Ontario’s AgriFood industry – which contributes $47 billion to Ontario’s GDP.
A significant portion of this investment, $9 million, went towards enhancing soil health. Minister Thompson underscored the importance of understanding and improving soil health for sustainable agriculture.
The minister also discussed the AgriFood Technology Fund, a $25 million initiative aimed at supporting farmers and processors in adopting new technologies for increased efficiency and biosecurity. This fund reflects the commitment to innovation, a key aspect of the overarching Grow Ontario strategy.
Sustainability played a pivotal role in their efforts, with a focus on the Resilient Agricultural Landscape program—a $50 million investment.
Minister Thompson praised farmers embracing precision agriculture and initiatives like holding ponds, showcasing how resilience contributes to environmental stewardship.
Minister Thompson emphasized the significance of investing in agriculture, and local food.
Looking ahead, Minister Thompson outlined plans for the next year, emphasizing a continued focus on resilient agricultural landscapes, collaboration with food processors, and attracting top talent to drive innovation. The goal is clear: to make Ontario a self-sufficient hub for food production.
Written by: B. Shakyaver