2024 ONTARIO AGRI-BUSINESS DIRECTORY Ag & Country 2024 Ontario’s Rural Business Directory 5 WELCOME TO 2024: SOME THOUGHTS TO HELP YOU PREPARE We hope you enjoy and use this substantial (108 pages!), significant (truly a who’s-who of ag products and services) fifth-annual directory. Our team has worked hard on this publication, and we believe it will help you achieve a successful year ahead on your farm. The “year ahead” has been on our minds lately. And to help you further prepare for 2024, here are a few key trends we are watching. Each has implications for the future of agriculture, if not for your operation specifically. Precision Agriculture Technologies: The use of precision agriculture in Ontario continues to rise, with many producers now incorporating some form of technology to increase efficiency and yields. For 2024, we anticipate steady growth in this trend, with more farmers using data-driven farming methods to make informed decisions. Sustainable Practices: Climateconscious farming has seen an uptick in Ontario. For instance, cover cropping – used by more producers than ever – enhances soil health and is expected to become increasingly important as farmers seek sustainable yield improvements and soil conservation. Climate Volatility: Ontario has experienced significant climate variability, with reports indicating an increase in unpredictable weather patterns. These changes compel a shift in farming strategies, including the timing of planting and harvesting and the types of crops grown, to ensure crop resilience and food security. Ongoing Labour Shortages: As you likely know first-hand, the agricultural sector has been facing a prolonged labour shortage. (One report from last year claimed a deficit of nearly 63,000 ag workers across Canada.) Efforts to address this in 2024 will include the push for automation and the adaptation of immigration policies to attract and retain workers. Supply Chain Resilience: The past few years have underscored the importance of robust supply chains. Some Ontario farmers have been part of a nationwide trend, investing in local processing facilities and direct-to-consumer sales models to mitigate the risks associated with global supply disruptions. Look for more of the same in the next 12 months. Staying on top of these trends is not just about sustaining operations – it’s about charting your farm’s path forward in a rapidly evolving industry. By integrating technology, prioritizing sustainability, adapting to climate changes, addressing labour shortages, and fortifying supply chains, you’ll be well-prepared for what’s to come. Oh, and keep your Ag & Country provincial directory close at hand. You’re sure to use it over and over all year long! LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Ag & Country is published annually by Farms.com. 90 Woodlawn Road West Guelph, ON N1H 1B2 888-248-4893 Email: Subscriptions@Farms.com PUBLISHER Paul Nolan Paul.Nolan@Farms.com PROJECT DIRECTOR Scott Farhood ADVERTISING TEAM Jennifer Longstreet Jeff McKee Samantha Renaud Glenn Ruegg Joan Spiegelberg Leslie Stewart DESIGN & PRODUCTION TEAM Tanya Myers Shaun Clark Andrea Williams View the companies listed in the directory and many more agribusinesses online at AgSearch.com. Also published by Farms.com in Canada: Ag Buyer’s Guide Better Farming (Ontario) Better Farming (Prairies) Better Pork Small Farm Canada Visit Farms.com for your up-to-the minute agriculture news and market information, as well as farm equipment, classified ads, and rural real estate listings. POSTMASTER Mail Agreement: 0042518524 Send Address changes / returns to: 90 Woodlawn Road West Guelph, ON N1H 1B2 Ag & Country Directory is published annually and is delivered free of charge to farm and rural addresses in Ontario. Ag & Country is not responsible for any mistakes, omissions, or typographical errors. The Ag & Country Directory Team is diligent in checking all advertising copy for any errors, but no guarantee is given or implied. Onfokus/E+ photo
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