The Ontario Federation of Agriculture, the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario and the Ontario branch of the National Farmers Union are jointly encouraging their members to lobby provincial politicians against rules changes that would allow lot severances from farms.
Ed Scharringa, president of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario, said “as farm leaders and organizations, we have worked diligently to manage and mitigate conflict between farming and non-farming neighbours in all types of agriculture.
“The proposed changes will exacerbate conflict between farming and non-farming neighbours for all aspects of farming including application of crop nutrition and crop protection products, wildlife control and more.”
“This legislation will have impact on all Ontario farmers now and in the future. It will fragment and permanently remove farmland from productive agricultural use, and limit farm business growth,” said Peggy Brekveld, president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
“Ontario’s productive farmland is a scarce resource, making up less than five per cent of all the land in the province. Agricultural production is the most valued and best use of this land.”
Max Hansgen, president of the National Farmers Union – Ontario said “directing growth to settlement areas, urban and rural is better for both agriculture and municipalities.”
“Housing needs can be met in serviced settlement areas on a much smaller land base, reducing farmland loss and potential land use conflicts while ensuring efficient use of municipal infrastructure investments.”
