Province Protecting Crops from Cold Weather

October 13, 2015 1:00 P.M.Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

This winter, Ontario is providing financial support to farmers to better ensure the survival of apples, tender fruit, berries, and specialty crops.

Ontario's cold winter months can cause damage to crops and reduce yields. To help growers manage this risk and ensure a steady, competitive supply of Ontario grown food, the province will share up to 35 per cent of the cost of weather mitigation equipment such as portable or fixed wind machines, heating and air movement devices, insulating devices, overhead irrigation systems, and crop covers. Growers can be eligible to receive up to a maximum of $31,500 per project.

Growers may apply for funding through the Ontario Crop and Soil Improvement Association, which administers the program, and will accept applications at several times over the next couple of years. The first intake is from October 22 to November 5, 2015.

Supporting a strong and innovative agri-food industry is part of the government's economic plan for Ontario. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

Quick Facts
The range of eligible crops and equipment that are eligible for support was developed in consultation with Ontario Tender Fruit Growers and Ontario Apple Growers.
Farm gate value of the fruit crops eligible for this program exceeded $150 million in 2014.
The cost sharing program is administered by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association.

Additional Resources
ontario.ca/agriculture-news

Quotes

“Our government is pleased to be providing additional support for our apple, tender fruit, berry, and specialty crop growers. Cost sharing for these projects will help growers take advantage of the best crop protection methods available, ensuring successful survival of cold weather periods, and quality yields at harvest.”

Jeff Leal
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

“The Ontario Apple Growers strongly welcome the support for cold weather mitigation measures. This support will help to reduce the impact of cold temperatures, ensuring farmers are able to provide consumers with a more stable supply of local Ontario apples for them to enjoy.”

Charles Stevens
Chair, Ontario Apple Growers

“Weather mitigation equipment helps to protect the tree fruit industry from unfavourable growing conditions. We greatly appreciate the Ontario government’s recognition of the challenges faced by farmers and the continued support.”

Phil Tregunno
Chair, Ontario Tender Fruit Growers