Calling all Ontario producers: share your views on farm programs

Mar 30, 2017

Farmers can influence the development future farm stewardship programs

Ontario producers can influence future stewardship programing by participating in an online study. Elan Lemaitre-Curri, PhD candidate, overseen by Stephan Schott, professor at Carleton University, is conducting the survey to gather farmer’s preferences regarding a variety of potential program scenarios.

“The survey is on stewardship programs supporting farmers with environmental and soil health projects on their farms,” says Lemaitre-Curri. “The goal is to understand what programs farmers would prefer, and what aspects in the programs matter most. Is it the level of financial support alone? Technical assistance? Support with the paper work? The farming background or technical expertise of the program contact point? … Or a combination of those (questions)?”

Lemaitre-Curri would like to see a wide variety of producers take the survey.

“We are encouraging all farmers to respond, whether they have already participated in stewardship programs or not,” she says. “The research method recognizes that not all farmers have the same preferences and that preferences may vary depending on the types of practices supported.”

corn

Gajus/iStock/GettyImagesPlus

The survey is a chance for producers to share their preferences and opinions, which will help shape the programs that will be available to them, says Lemaitre-Curri.

“By completing the survey, farmers will inform (creators of) future programs for Ontario farmers, (while) support(ing) scientific research,” she says. “(Also, farmers) can enter in draw to win one of 30 gas cards valued between $20 and $200.”

Once the survey closes at the end of April, survey results will be available online. The survey should take farmers 20 minutes to complete, and can be accessed on Carleton University’s website.

Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.