Improving the Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program could lead to fair compensation for producers
Staff Writer
Farms.com
The Ontario government is asking for feedback from farmers to improve the Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program.
Industry members can complete a short survey to provide input on the program and highlight areas that require improvement, a Friday OMAFRA
release said.
In seeking this input, the government hopes to ensure the program “works as it is intended to support farmers who lose livestock to predators,” the release said.
Key areas of the survey include:
• Evidence standards used to demonstrate wildlife predation
• Resources and tools to assist farmers and municipalities
• Alignment of compensation values with market prices
• Appeals process
Government officials will analyze survey results to determine how to improve the program.
"We heard from farmers that this program was no longer working for them and we are moving forward to address their concerns," said Ernie Hardeman, minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, in the release. "This is an opportunity for those affected by the program to provide their input on how we can remove red tape and improve program design."
Survey responses are due by Nov. 21.
To take the survey, click
here.
Farms.com has reached out to local producers and livestock evaluators for comment.
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