Commentary

As we eagerly anticipate Canada's Agriculture Day on February 13, 2024, it's a momentous occasion to rally together in celebration of the remarkable contributions and steadfast resilience of Ontario's agricultural community. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the immense value that our farmers bring to our lives, our economy, and our nation as a whole.

Ontario's agri-food sector stands tall as a shining example of strength, diversity, and innovation within Canada. With over 48,000 farms spanning our picturesque landscapes and producing an astonishing array of over 200 commodities, our province boasts a rich agricultural tapestry that is as vibrant as it is vital.

But the significance of Ontario's agricultural sector extends far beyond the fields and barns. It is a cornerstone of our economy, contributing a staggering $47 billion to the province's GDP, making up a notable 6.4% of Ontario's total economic output. This economic impact ripples outwards, supporting businesses, communities, and families across the province.

Moreover, Ontario's agri-food sector serves as a powerhouse of employment, providing livelihoods for more than 750,000 Ontarians throughout the entire supply chain. From farmers and farm workers to food processors, distributors, and retailers, countless individuals rely on the agricultural industry for their jobs and their futures.

As we gather to commemorate Canada's Agriculture Day, let us take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the farmers who toil tirelessly to feed our families, fuel our economy, and steward our land. Their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence are the bedrock of our agricultural heritage, and they deserve our utmost appreciation and respect.

So, let us raise our voices in celebration and recognition of the extraordinary contributions of Ontario's farmers and the entire agri-food sector. Let us honor their resilience, innovation, and tireless work ethic, which sustain us all and ensure that Canada remains a global leader in agriculture.

Join us in spreading the word far and wide with the hashtag #CdnAgDay, as we come together to celebrate the past, present, and future of Ontario agriculture. Happy Canada's Agriculture Day to all – here's to a bountiful harvest of success, prosperity, and growth for our farmers and our nation! 🌾🇨🇦 #CdnAgDay

* Source: 2021 statistics — OMAFRA calculations and Statistics Canada
https://www.ontario.ca/page/grow-ontario-provincial-agri-food-strategy#:~:text=Ontario's%20agri%2Dfood%20sector%3A%20facts%20and%20figures,-Ontario's%20agri%2Dfood&text=Ontario%20accounts%20for%20%2414.5%20billion,in%20the%20country%20in%202021 

Mackenna Roth is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario. The CFFO Commentary represents the opinions of the writer and does not necessarily represent CFFO policy.