What's New

November 29, 2021 - At the request of the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has made amendments to Ontario Regulation 484/09: Grain - Plan and Ontario Regulation 485/09: Grain - Marketing.

The amendments to O. Reg. 484/09 remove a requirement for GFO to undertake a mandatory review of its district structure every five-years.

The amendments to O. Reg. 485/09 remove restrictions on the Wheat Price Risk Mitigation Fund, delegate authority to GFO to establish funds consistent with its mandate, and revoke provisions related to wheat marketing that are no longer used.

The amendments were filed with the Registrar of Regulations and are now in effect.

September 27, 2021 - As part of the Ontario government's Open for Business Action Plan, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) is proposing amendments to Regulation 761: Milk and Milk Products and Regulation 753: Grades, Standards, Designations, Classes, Packing and Marking under the Milk Act to help reduce burden and costs for dairy processors and to stimulate economic growth in the sector while maintaining strong health and safety standards.

Information about the proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry for public comment until November 11, 2021. All comments received will be reviewed and considered before any final amendments are made.

July 28, 2021 - At the request of the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has posted proposed amendments to:

  • Ontario Regulation 484/09:Grain - Plan, which would remove a requirement for GFO to undertake a mandatory review of its district structure every five-years.
  • Ontario Regulation 485/09: Grain - Marketing, which would remove restrictions placed on the Wheat Price Risk Mitigation Fund and delegate authority to GFO to establish funds consistent with its mandate.

The Proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry for public comment until September 11, 2021.

June 21 2021 - At the request of the Ontario Potato Board, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended Ontario Regulation 247/99: Potatoes - Marketing.

The amendments:

  • change the name of the "soups and stews" negotiating agency to the "frozen products" negotiating agency
  • provide processing potato negotiating agencies with the ability to decide whether to appoint an observer to witness negotiations
  • remove outdated references to the Farm Products Grades and Sales Act and the Canada Agricultural Products Act (Canada)

The amendments were filed with the Registrar of Regulations and are now in effect.

May 28, 2021 - At the request of the Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Regulation 761: Milk and Milk Products under the Milk Act to allow for the storage of milk in vertical bulk tanks (VBTs) on-farm.

The proposed amendments, which are in line with the Ontario government's Open for Business action plan to reduce burdensome regulations, would provide producers with the option to store larger amounts of cow and goat milk on-farm without having to increase their building footprint, while maintaining food safety and quality requirements.

Information about the proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry for public comment until July 12, 2021. All comments received will be reviewed and considered before any final amendments are made.

April 19, 2021 - At the request of the Ontario Flue-Cured Tobacco Growers' Marketing Board (OFCTGMB), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) amended:

April 6, 2021 - In response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak, and at the request of the dairy industry, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) has amended Regulation 761: Milk and Milk Products under the Milk Act.

The amendments:

  • Extend dairy plant licences by four months past the deadline to provide inspectors with additional time to conduct plant inspections, which are required for licencing.
  • Applications for the plant licence renewal will continue to be due on or before May 1, 2021.
  • Extend milk, cream and bulk tank milk grader certificates by twelve months past the deadline to provide additional time to safely conduct required training courses.

Additional amendments will also:

  • Remove outdated references to Ontario Regulation 60/09: Standards of Care and Administrative Standards under the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and replace them with references to Ontario Regulation 444/19: Standards of Care and Administrative Requirements under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act, 2019; and;
  • Correct an amendment error made in 2018.

March 19, 2021 - At the request of the Chicken Farmers of Ontario (CFO) and the Association of Ontario Chicken Processors (AOCP), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has amended Ontario Regulation 402: Chickens - Marketing under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments provide the chicken negotiating agency, which determines the live price of chicken in Ontario, and comprises representatives appointed by CFO and AOCP, authority to negotiate charges, costs or expenses related to emergency euthanasia caused by COVID-19 related processing capability reductions.

The additional charges, subject to agreement by the parties, would be used to compensate chicken producers and processors for birds that must euthanize because they are unable to process them as a result of COVID-19.

February 5, 2021 - At the request of the Chicken Farmers of Ontario and the Association of Ontario Chicken Processors, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has amended Ontario Regulation 402: Chickens - Marketing under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments update the Cost of Production Formula framework from which the negotiating agency, which comprises representatives appointed by CFO and AOCP, will determine the minimum live price of chicken in Ontario. Schedule 1 of the regulation, which prescribes annual adjustments to the minimum live price, has been eliminated.

The amendments were developed based on data and information submitted by the Chicken Farmers of Ontario, the Association of Ontario Chicken Processors, as well as information submitted by industry experts and comments received through Ontario's Regulatory Registry.

December 9, 2020 - At the request of Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO), and with the support of the Beef Farmers of Ontario, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has amended Ontario Regulation 272/14: Veal Cattle - Plan and Ontario Regulation 58/15: Veal Cattle - Marketing under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments:

  • Update the definition of veal cattle to better reflect industry needs and to allow VFO to receive licence fees on animals that were not previously included in the regulations.
  • Remove outdated references to the Livestock and Poultry Carcass Grading Regulations (Canada) from the veal cattle definition

October 27, 2020 - At the request of the Grape Growers of Ontario (GGO), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) is proposing amendments to Regulation 415: Grapes for Processing - Plan under the Farm Products Marketing Act, which would change producer district boundaries and the allocation of district delegates to the Grape Growers' Committee and of directors to GGO's board.

The Commission is also proposing amendments to Regulation 414: Grapes for Processing - Marketing under the Farm Products Marketing Act to update the name of the 'Wine Council of Ontario' to 'Ontario Craft Wineries' and of the 'Winery and Grower Alliance of Ontario' to 'Wine Growers of Ontario.'

The Commission would also make housekeeping amendments to remove spent provisions.

Details of proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry until [December 11, 2020].

October 22, 2020 - At the request of the Chicken Farmers of Ontario (CFO) and the Association of Ontario Chicken Processors (AOCP), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) is proposing amendments to Regulation 402: Chickens - Marketing, to update the cost of production formula from which CFO and AOCP negotiate the minimum live price of broiler chickens in Ontario.

Information about the proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry until December 7, 2020. All comments received will be reviewed and considered before any final amendments are made.

August 10, 2020 - At the request of Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO), and with the support of the Beef Farmers of Ontario, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Regulation 272/14: Veal Cattle - Plan and Regulation 58/15: Veal Cattle - Marketing.

The proposed amendments would:

  • Update the definition of veal cattle to better reflect industry needs and allow VFO to receive licence fees on animals that are not currently included in the regulations.
  • Remove outdated references to the Livestock and Poultry Carcass Grading Regulation (Canada) from the veal cattle definition

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry until 10, 2020.

August 7, 2020 - At the request of the Ontario Potato Board, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) is proposing an amendment to O. Reg. 247/99 (Potatoes Marketing), which would replace the current negotiating agency for all processors of "Soups and Stews" with a negotiating agency for all processors of "Frozen Products."

The Commission is also proposing amendments to remove outdated references in O. Reg. 247/99 to the Farm Products Grades and Sales Act and the Canada Agricultural Products Act (Canada).

The details of the proposed amendments are posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry.

May 8, 2020 - Appointment of Amy Cronin as Chair of the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission

April 17, 2020 - In response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, and at the request of the dairy industry, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) has amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 761: Milk and Milk Products under the Milk Act.

The amendments:

  • extend dairy processing plant and non-shopkeeper distributor licence renewals;
  • extend bulk tank milk grader, and plant milk and cream grader certificate renewals; and
  • temporarily reinstate currently expired non-shopkeeper distributor licences and grader certificates.

The amendments are intended to allow the dairy industry to continue to operate during the outbreak without fear of certificates or licences lapsing. The amendments also provide additional time following the emergency for licence and certificate renewals.

The regulation was filed with the Registrar of Regulations and came into force upon filing.

March 10, 2020 - At the request of the Ontario Broiler Hatching Egg and Chick Commission (OBHECC), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 396 (Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks - Marketing) under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments establish a Broiler Hatching Egg and Chick Industry Advisory Committee. Members of the committee include representatives from OBHECC, the Chicken Farmers of Ontario, the Association of Ontario Chicken Processors and a Commission-appointed chair.

February 28, 2020 - At the request of the Ontario Flue-Cured Tobacco Growers' Marketing Board (OFCTGMB), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) is proposing amendments to:

  • Regulation 306/09 (Tobacco - Plan), which would update the composition of OFCTGMB's board from one that is Commission appointed to one that is elected by producer members.
  • Regulation 208/09 (Tobacco- Powers of the Local Board), which would provide OFCTGMB with the authority to set and collect licence fees from its producer members. The proposed licence fee amount is $4 per acre.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry until April 14, 2020.

February 5, 2020 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission made amendments to R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing, under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments, which were requested by the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers and the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Processor Association, correct the methodology used to determine the minimum annual tonnage that a processor will purchase from an associated producer of processing carrots or tomatoes for the 2020-22 crop years. The methodology used to determine the minimum annual tonnage has been amended so that processors and producers use contracted tonnage in place of purchased tonnage.

The regulation was filed with the Registrar of Regulations and is now in effect.

December 11, 2019 - Amendments have been made to Regulation 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

Minister's Statement: Changes to the Processing Vegetable System

The amendments:

  • Allow tomato and carrot producers to collectively determine whether they wish to negotiate directly with a processor, or to have their agreements negotiated on their behalf by peer producers for each processor (i.e., through a negotiating agency).
  • Enhance contract security for tomato and carrot producers, as these producers tend to make greater, long-term investments in their operations.
  • Facilitate more effective conflict resolution for collective tomato and carrot negotiations by introducing a new mediation process that can progress to arbitration under exceptional circumstances; and
  • Allow the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers to focus on non-negotiating services that benefit its grower members (e.g., marketing, research, advocacy, etc.).

November 29, 2019 - Amendments have been made to R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 761: Milk and Milk Products, under the Milk Act.

The amendments:

  • Exempt dairy processors that are constructing or altering a dairy plant that is intended to receive no more than 7,500 litres of milk per day from the requirement to construct an enclosed receiving room and an enclosed tank-truck wash station.
  • Require the exempted dairy plants to have a smooth surface that is impermeable to liquids on which the tank truck can park to deliver milk with a means of containing any potential spills that may occur during the normal practice of unloading milk.
  • Require the operators of exempted dairy plants to have protections available for the openings into tank-trucks to protect milk from contamination during delivery.

November 14, 2019 - At the request of the Ontario Pork Producers' Marketing Board (Ontario Pork), the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission has amended Ontario Regulation 439/10: Hogs - Marketing

The amendments provide Ontario Pork with authority to licence producers who transfer Ontario hogs outside of the province through inter-farm transfers, without sale, and to collect licence fees on those animals.

October 11, 2019 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 441: Vegetables for Processing - Plan, under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments update the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers' (OPVG) elections process by:

  • Establishing additional candidate and voter eligibility criteria.
  • Establishing a process for appointing a returning officer, who will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of OPVG's election process, including candidate nominations, ballot distribution, voting and ballot collection.
  • Establishing rules to conduct proper candidate nominations, secure and confidential voting and ballot counting, and proper retention of election records.
  • Requiring that board elections be conducted by mail and/or electronic means only.

The Commission also made amendments to remove references to outdated statutes and updated the wording of certain provisions so that they are consistent with other Plan regulations.

October 9, 2019 - At the request of the Ontario Broiler Hatching Egg and Chick Commission, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing an amendment under R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 396: Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks - Marketing to establish an industry advisory committee.

The industry advisory committee will provide hatching egg and chick producers, chicken producers and chicken processors with a forum to discuss sector issues, develop solutions, and promote greater efficiency in the producing and marketing of their commodity.

Details of the proposed amendment will be posted on Ontario's Regulatory Registry until November 23, 2019.

August 26, 2019 - At the request of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is amending Regulation 418: Greenhouse Vegetables.

The amendments include the realignment of greenhouse vegetable growing districts, the designation of non-individual producers who are eligible to vote or hold office, and the restriction of individuals from being elected to the board who have been convicted of offences under specified legislation or have received a penalty from the local board for non-compliance with the Farm Products Marketing Act or regulations.

June 21, 2019 - Amendments have been made to R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 761: Milk and Milk Products, under the Milk Act.

The amendments include:

  • The replacement of prescriptive ceiling height requirements with an outcome-based provision that addresses moisture accumulation on ceilings.
  • The removal of prescriptive floor drain requirements where there is no risk of liquid accumulation.
  • The removal of several prescriptive requirements related to equipment capacity.
  • Licensing exemptions for plants that:
    • Only use pasteurized milk and milk ingredients to manufacture milk products; and
    • Only sell their products directly to consumers (i.e. do not wholesale).

May 3, 2019 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Ontario Regulation 418 (Greenhouse Vegetables- Plan), under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The proposed amendments were requested by the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers to realign the greenhouse vegetable growing districts, the designation of non-individual producers who are eligible to vote or hold office, and the restriction of individuals who have contravened specified legislation from being elected to the board.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry for public comment until June 17, 2019.

April 18, 2019 - At the direction of the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Regulation 440 (Vegetables for Processing-Marketing) to enable direct negotiation and contracting between tomato producers and processors.

The Commission is also proposing amendments to align the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers' (OPVG) delegated powers with direct contracting for processing tomatoes. These amendments are intended to address decreased investment and declining volumes in the processing tomato industry.

During the posting period, the Commission may also consider options for other processing vegetables.

The Commission is also proposing amendments under Regulation 441 (Vegetables for Processing-Plan), to enable broader producer participation in selecting OPVG board members through an open, fair and transparent process using modern governance and election techniques.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until June 3, 2019.

April 16, 2019 - Minister's Letter: Evolving the Processing Vegetable (Tomato) System to Meet New Competitive Realities

January 31, 2019 - Minister's Statement: New Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers' Chair Appointed to Support Growth of the Sector

Statement from the OFPMC Chair, Jim Clark

January 28, 2019

"Suzanne van Bommel has been appointed as a regulated marketing advisor to the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission and Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs.

In her new role, Ms. van Bommel will evaluate opportunities to:

  • Encourage and promote growth within Ontario's regulated marketing sector
  • Encourage new food processing opportunities in the province
  • Remove undue and unnecessary regulatory and non-regulatory burdens throughout the regulated marketing system
  • Achieve improvements in marketing board governance and oversight

In order to accept this opportunity, Ms. van Bommel has tendered her resignation as chair of the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers.

I want to thank Ms. van Bommel for her dedicated service to Ontario's processing vegetable sector and look forward to working with her in this new advisory role."

- Jim Clark, Chair, OFPMC

November 29, 2018 - Amendments have been made to R.R.O. 990, Regulation 428: (Seed Corn- Plan) under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments include the amalgamation of Districts 1 and 2, an increase in board member term limits from two to three years, and the introduction of a new consecutive term limit of four terms, followed by a mandatory one year period of ineligibility for board election.

November 19, 2018 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to R.R.O. 1990 Regulation 761 (Milk and Milk Products) under the Milk Act.

The proposed amendments are intended to help make it easier for existing dairy processors, new and expanding dairy processors, and small food service and retail operations to do business in Ontario.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until January 10, 2019.

May 2, 2018 - An amendment has been made to adjust the timelines for the negotiation of annual agreements between the Ontario Apple Growers and juice apple processors under R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 125/04: Apples - Marketing.

March 29, 2018 - An amendment has been made to a term contract section under R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 440: Processing Vegetables - Marketing.

The amendment extends the notice period for termination without cause to no less than one year.

March 29, 2018 - Amendments have been made to R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 761: Milk and Milk Products to help Ontario harmonize its milk quality requirements with those of other Canadian provinces. The amendments come into force on May 1, 2018.

The amendments include updates to quality and testing standards, as well as animal health and welfare requirements.

February 8, 2018 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing an amendment to the term contract clause under R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing. Details of the proposed amendment proposed amendment will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until March 26, 2018.

January 24, 2018 - Amendments have been made to R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 418 (Greenhouse Vegetables - Plan) to allow the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers more flexibility in their board governance. Amendments include extended board member term limits, as well as clarification on member eligibility.

January 23, 2018 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Ontario Regulation 125/04 (Apples - Marketing), under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The proposed amendments were requested by Ontario Apple Growers and juice apple processors, and would adjust negotiation timelines for annual agreements between the two parties.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry for public comment until March 9, 2018.

December 21, 2017 - Final Filed Reg. 440 Amendments

Amendments to R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 440 (Vegetables for Processing - Marketing) were filed with the Registrar of Regulations on December 21, 2017.

The amendments are intended to help promote growth, innovation and job creation in the processing vegetable industry by creating opportunities for growers and processors to work together for the benefit of the entire value chain.

December 19, 2017 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to R.R.O. 1990 Regulation 428 (Seed-Corn - Plan), under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The proposed amendments were requested by the Seed Corn Growers of Ontario after consultation with their producers and industry stakeholders.

The regulation updates would include the amalgamation of Districts 1 and 2, the extension of board member term limits to three years, and the introduction of a new four-term consecutive term limit.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry for public comment until February 2, 2018.

November 21, 2017 - New Berry Growers of Ontario Marketing Board - Regulation O. Reg. 383/17: Berries Plan

The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is pleased to announce the establishment of a new Berry Growers of Ontario (BGO) marketing board under Ontario Regulation 383/17 (Berries - Plan) of the Farm Products Marketing Act, to represent Ontario blueberry, raspberry and strawberry growers.

Under the regulation, the Commission has the obligation to appoint members to serve on BGO's first board of directors. As such, the Commission is pleased to announce the following appointed directors:

Blueberry Growers Strawberry Growers Raspberry Growers
Kerry Copestake
Brambleberry Farm
Wooler, ON		 Kevin Howe
G & M Howe & Sons Ltd.
Aylmer, ON 		Alex McKay
Willowtree Farm
Port Perry, ON
Steve Kustermans
Kustermans Berry Farms
Mt. Brydges, ON		 Graham Shaw
Taylor Strawberry Farm
Windermere, ON		 Tom Heeman
Heeman Strawberry Farm
Thames Centre, ON
Dusty Zamecnik
EZ Grow Farms
Langton, ON		 Matt Tigchelaar
Tigchelaar Berry Farm
Jordan, ON 		Brian Rijke
Dentz Orchards & Berry Farm
Iroquois, ON

Member terms will begin on November 15, 2017 and will end upon the first meeting of a newly elected board in 2018. In 2018, all directors will be elected by producer members.

While Ontario Regulation 383/17 establishes BGO and defines its governance framework, Ontario Regulation 428/17: Berries - Marketing delegates BGO powers to regulate the production and marketing of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries in Ontario. The proposed marketing regulation would give BGO the powers to license berry growers; set and collect licence fees; require berry growers to provide information and establish an industry advisory committee.

November 14, 2017 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to Ontario Regulation 439/10 (Hogs - Marketing) under the Farm Products Marketing Act.

The amendments were requested by Ontario Pork after consultation with pork producers. The proposed amendments would allow Ontario Pork to licence weaner hog producers and to collect licence fees from producers who transport weaner hogs outside of Ontario, but do not market them.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until December 29, 2017.

November 14, 2017 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to R.R.O. 1990 Regulation 761 (Milk and Milk Products) under the Milk Act.

The amendments were requested by Dairy Farmers of Ontario after consultation with dairy farmers and industry stakeholders. The proposed amendments would make changes to the raw milk quality program including animal care and welfare requirements for dairy cattle.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until December 29, 2017.

October 12, 2017 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing amendments to R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing.

Details of the proposed amendments will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until December 11, 2017.

Minister's Statement - Regulation 440

September 26, 2017 - Four New Board Directors Appointed to the OPVG

The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is pleased to announce the appointment of four new directors to the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers (OPVG) board.

With 150 years of combined farming experience, Eric Allaer, Michael Denys, Tom Hebblethwaite and Chris Stewart, have grown a broad range of processing vegetables over the years.

Their invaluable knowledge of the industry and regulated marketing, as well as their previous committee and board experience, provide them with the skills needed to develop strong board policies and practices that will help benefit the interests of all OPVG producers.

During the extensive recruitment process, a job advertisement was posted on the Commission and OPVG web sites for a two week period. Processing vegetable growers, from each of the three districts, were invited to apply by September 5th. All applications were carefully considered using an open and fair selection process.

Eric Allaer - Port Lambton, Ontario

  • 33 years of farming experience
  • Currently operates 3500 acres, producing tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, seed corn, field corn, soybeans and wheat
  • Current turkey producer
  • Previous OPVG District 1 committee chair

Michael Denys - Wallaceburg, Ontario

  • 41 years of farming experience
  • Currently operates 300 acres with his son, producing sweet corn, seed corn, green beans, peas, soybeans and wheat
  • Previous processing tomato, cucumber and pepper producer
  • Current president of the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres board
  • Previous chair and member of the Ontario Seed Corn Growers Marketing board

Tom Hebblethwaite - Blenheim, Ontario

  • 41 years of farming experience
  • Currently operates 1000 acres with his son, producing tomatoes, corn, seed corn, soybeans and wheat
  • Previous cucumber, pepper, seed corn, soybean, squash, wheat, and burley and black tobacco producer
  • Previous chair and member of the Seed Corn Growers of Ontario
  • Previous chair and member of the Ontario Black Tobacco Growers Association

Chris Stewart - Cedar Springs, Ontario

  • 35 years of farming experience
  • Currently operators 1500 acres, producing tomatoes, seed corn, soybeans and wheat
  • Previous broccoli, cauliflower, green bean, black fired tobacco and cabbage producer
  • Previous member of the Seed Corn Growers of Ontario board
  • Previous member of the Black Fired Tobacco board

The four appointed directors will hold their positions for a one-year term at which time elections for these positions will be held.

September 22, 2017 - Suzanne van Bommel Appointed as New OPVG Chair

The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is pleased to announce Suzanne van Bommel as the newly appointed chair of the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers (OPVG). Suzanne will hold the position for an initial two-year term, with possibility for reappointment for a maximum term of 10 years.

As a co-owner of HAR MAR Farms in Belmont, Ontario, Suzanne manages a 560 acre cash crop operation, producing corn, soybeans and peas. She also manages a hog finishing livestock operation. With more than 30 years of farming experience, she has developed extensive knowledge of business risk management and regulated marketing.

Currently, as president of The GPS Group, a government relations firm, Suzanne provides specialized public relations and issues management services to those within the agriculture and agri-business, food and beverage, and energy sectors. Her strong leadership skills provide her with the skills needed to cultivate relationships, build consensus and implement positive change. As a government relations professional, Suzanne has extensive industry experience related to regulation and legislation.

Previously, as the chief of staff for the Minister of what is now the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Suzanne was responsible for managing operating budgets, strategic planning, human resources, policy development and program delivery. Within this role, she also developed extensive knowledge of supply management.

Suzanne acquired extensive board governance and committee experience while serving on several boards, including the St. Thomas Elgin Caring Cupboard Food Bank, the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation, the St. Thomas Elgin Architectural Conservancy Association and the St. Thomas Elgin Public Arts Centre.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario.

August 11, 2017 - Minister's Statement - Regulation 441

August 11, 2017 - Amendments to R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 441: Vegetables for Processing - Plan to update the governance structure of the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers (OPVG) were filed with the Registrar of Regulations on August 11, 2017.

August 8, 2017 - Statement from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on the appointment of Jim Clark as Chair of the OFPMC

June 15, 2017 - The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission is proposing to update the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers' governance structure.

Details of the proposed changes will be posted on the Service Ontario Regulatory Registry until July 31, 2017.

Statement from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on Proposed Changes to Regulation 441/400

April 20, 2017 - At the request of the Ontario Goat Breeders Association, also known as Ontario Goat, the Commission conducted an expression of opinion vote for all eligible goat milk producers to gauge their support in having Ontario Goat designated as their representative association.

The voting period ran from February 27 to March 10, 2017. More than 60 per cent of eligible voters participated, representing over 80 per cent of provincial goat milk production.

The Commission follows specific voting guidelines to help interpret support for establishing marketing boards and representative associations, and considers both producer support and related production when assessing an outcome.

Only 32 per cent of participants were in favour of the designation, which fell short of the Commission's requirement of a minimum of 66.67 per cent of producer support. The percentage of production attributed to the yes vote was 42 per cent, which also fell short of the Commission's required 50 per cent minimum. As a result, the Commission was unable to recommend that Ontario Goat be designated as a representative association.

March 3, 2017: Minister's Statement Regarding OPVG Changes

Statement from the OFPMC Interim Chair, Jim Clark

March 3, 2017

"Today, acting on the advice of the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (OFPMC), the Ontario Government used its authority under the Farm Products Marketing Act to remove the current Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers (OPVG) Board of Directors and appoint a trustee, Elmer Buchanan.

To facilitate the government's decision to appoint a trustee, the Commission used its authority under the Farm Products Marketing Act to terminate OPVG's member appointments to all negotiating agencies for 2017 and give the trustee the power to appoint new members within 14 days. Upcoming negotiating deadlines for tomatoes, carrots, cabbage and green and waxed beans have been extended by 14 days.

This was a difficult decision that was not made lightly. It was based on tensions within the sector over the last several months and, more recently, by a breakdown in negotiations between growers and processors which was endangering this year's tomato crop. Not taking this action now would likely have negative effects on the 2017 crop size, which would have had consequences on the livelihoods of Ontario farmers and the provincial economy as a whole.

Today's decision is a temporary measure to help reinvigorate the processing vegetable sector. Board elections will be held later this year, in time for the 2018 growing season.

I want to make it clear that today's decision was based on unique circumstances and the Commission, along with the Ontario government, continues to support regulated marketing.

This decision also does not affect the directive issued by the Minister to the Commission in August of 2016. Our plans have not changed. We will continue to consult with the processing vegetable industry and will complete an economic analysis this year.

Today's decision will help reset 2017 negotiations, allow for innovative thinking, and rebuild relationships that underpin future prosperity for the sector."

- Jim Clark, Interim Chair, OFPMC

Expression Of Opinion Vote To Be Held For Goat Milk Producers

The Ontario Goat Breeders Association (OGBA), also known as Ontario Goat, has put forward a proposal to be designated as the representative association for goat milk producers in Ontario. Details about this proposal can be found in an information summary that will be part of the vote package sent to producers. Information related to the vote, including the information summary will also be posted on Ontario Goat's website through the following link: www.ontariogoat.ca.

The Commission encourages all eligible producers to become informed about the proposal and to cast their vote, either in favour of or against, the proposed question. The voting period will run from February 27 to March 10, 2017.

Producers will be asked:

"Are you in favour of Ontario Goat being designated as the representative association for goat milk producers in Ontario under Section 12 of the Farm Products Marketing Act as described in the enclosed information summary and paying a licence fee to finance the association's activities to stimulate, increase and improve the production and marketing of goat milk in Ontario?"

The Commission will mail voting packages to all known goat milk producers on or about February 21, 2017. Producers who do not receive a voting package by March 1, 2017 should contact the Commission at (519) 826-5189.

All returned ballots must be post-marked no later than March 10, 2017.

February 10, 2017: Invitation - Consultation session for the Processing Vegetable sector

The Commission is taking next steps towards achieving the goals set out by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs' directive on August 17, 2016.

As part of the first stage of our plan, I would like to invite you to an open and interactive consultation session to discuss:

  • opportunities for collaboration between Ontario's processing vegetable producers and processors;
  • how we can work together to improve relationships in the processing vegetable industry;
  • the potential of a pilot project that would feature some direct contracting capabilities for the 2017 tomato crop.

The session will be held at the Chatham-Kent John D. Bradley Convention Centre on Thursday, February 16, 2017 from 1:00 - 5:00 pm.

Chatham-Kent John D. Bradley Convention Centre
565 Richmond Street
Chatham, ON
N7M 1R2
Phone: (519) 598-0200

Please contact the Farm Products Marketing Commission at 519-826-4220 regarding any accommodation requests and/or translation services required.

Your attendance is appreciated.

Sincerely,

Jim Clark
Interim Chair
Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission

December 20, 2016: Statement from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on the appointment of Jim Clark as interim Chair of the OFPMC

December 12, 2016: Statement from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on the retirement of Geri Kamenz, Chairman of the OFPMC

August 17, 2016: Directive to Farm Marketing Products Commission under section 13 of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Act

Recent Amendments to Regulations

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 433: Tender Fruit - Marketing

On April 19, 2017, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 433 (Tender Fruit- Marking), made under the Farm Products Marketing Act, to exempt small processors from the regulation other than clauses 6 (a), (b) and (c). For the purposes of the regulation a small processor is anyone that processes less than 907.2 kilograms (1 short ton) of tender fruit in a calendar year.

The amendment to Regulation 433 became effective May 29, 2017.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=22963&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900433?search=FARM+PRODUCTS+MARKETING+ACT

Regulation 753 (Grades, Standards, Designations, Classes, Packing and Marking) under the Milk Act.

The Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 753 (Grades, Standards, Designations, Classes, Packing and Marking), made under the Milk Act, to establish a new class for milk used to process certain skim milk ingredients and products. The amendment will allow the dairy industry to implement an Ontario dairy ingredient strategy. Additional amendments to Regulation 753 may be required if a national dairy ingredient strategy is developed.

The amendments to Regulation 753 are effective on April 1, 2016.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=20283&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900753?search=MILK+ACT

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 434: Tender Fruit - Plan and R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 433: Tender Fruit - Marketing

The amendments to add apricot production in Ontario to the authorities of the Ontario Tender Fruit Growers, under Regulation 434 (Tender Fruit - Plan) of the Farm Products Marketing Act were made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and filed with the Registrar of Regulations on date of filing. On October 21, 2015, under authority of the Farm Products Marketing Act, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission made consequential amendments to add apricot production in Ontario to Regulation 433 (Tender Fruit - Marketing). The amendments to Regulation 433 were filed with the Registrar of Regulations on November 27, 2015.

The amendments to Regulations 433 and 434 become effective on January 1, 2016.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=19562&language=en

The regulations can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900434?search=FARM+PRODUCTS+MARKETING+ACT

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900433?search=FARM+PRODUCTS+MARKETING+ACT

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing

On September 17, 2015 the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 440: Vegetables for Processing - Marketing, made under the Farm Products Marketing Act, to revise some of the deadlines in the negotiation Schedule, and to provide flexibility in deadlines to the negotiating parties should they be able to reach agreement on a new deadline and inform the Commission in writing by a specific time. The amendments allow for parties to extend negotiations for up to three business days. The amendments also allow for separate negotiating schedules for the hand harvest and machine harvest cucumber crops.

The amendments to Regulation 440 became effective on October 15, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=18663&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900440

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 400: By-Laws for Local Boards

On October 21, 2015 the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (Commission) amended R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 400: By-Laws for Local Boards, made under the Farm Products Marketing Act (FPMA), to revoke the specific quorum requirement for board meetings of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG). The OGVG's quorum requirement is now the same as all other local boards established under the FPMA.

The amendments to Regulation 400 became effective on November 13, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=18662&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900400

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 434: Tender Fruit - Plan and R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 433: Tender Fruit - Marketing

The amendments to add apricot production in Ontario to the authorities of the Ontario Tender Fruit Growers, under Regulation 434 (Tender Fruit - Plan) of the Farm Products Marketing Act were made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and filed with the Registrar of Regulations on date of filing.

On October 21, 2015, under authority of the Farm Products Marketing Act, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission made consequential amendments to add apricot production in Ontario to Regulation 433 (Tender Fruit - Marketing). The amendments to Regulation 433 were filed with the Registrar of Regulations on Friday, November 27, 2015.

The amendments to Regulations 433 and 434 become effective on January 1, 2016.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=19562&language=en

The regulations can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900433

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900434

Ontario Regulation 208/09: Tobacco - Powers of Local Board

On June 17, 2015, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended O. Reg. 208/09 (Tobacco - Powers of Local Board), made under the Farm Products Marketing Act, to revoke redundant regulatory authorities now that the Ministry of Finance has assumed the responsibility for licensing tobacco production in Ontario.

The amendments revoke the majority of the OFCTGMB's marketing authorities. Authorities that remain include the ability to stimulate the marketing and promotion of tobacco, provide voluntary services, and charge fees for services requested by producers. The amended regulation retains a provision requiring the Commission to approve any expenditure in excess of $25,000.

The amendments to O. Reg. 208/09 became effective on July 27, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=17822&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/090208

Ontario Regulation 484/09: Grain - Plan and Ontario Regulation 485/09: Grain - Marketing

The amendments to add oat and barley production in Ontario to the authorities of the Grain Farmers of Ontario, under Ontario Regulation 484/09 (Grain - Plan) of the Farm Products Marketing Act were made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and filed with the Registrar of Regulations on May 21, 2015.

On April 8, 2015, under authority of the Farm Products Marketing Act, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission made consequential amendments to add oat and barley production in Ontario to Ontario Regulation 485/09 (Grain - Marketing). The amendments to Ontario Regulation 485/09 were filed with the Registrar of Regulations on May 22, 2015.

The amendments to Ontario Regulations 484/09 and 485/09 become effective on July 1, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=17782&language=en

The regulations can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/090484

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/090485

Ontario Regulation 410: Fresh Grapes-Marketing

On May 21, 2015 the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended Regulation 410 (Fresh Grapes - Marketing), made under the Farm Products Marketing Act, to establish an industry advisory committee (IAC) for fresh grapes.

The IAC includes grower and dealer-shipper representatives. The mandate of the IAC for fresh grapes will be to advise and make recommendations to the Ontario Fresh Grape Growers Marketing Board and/or the Canadian Produce Marketing Association. Advice will relate to promotion and marketing activities, improving quality, sharing information, and positioning the industry to identify and take advantage of opportunities that may exist to improve the industry.

The amendments to Regulation 410 became effective on June 4, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=18164&language=en

The regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900410

Ontario Regulation 272/14: Veal Cattle- Plan and Ontario Regulation 58/15 (Veal Cattle- Marketing)

Ontario Regulation 272/14 (Veal Cattle - Plan) creates a Plan for regulating the producing and marketing of veal cattle in Ontario and establishes a new local board called the Veal Farmers of Ontario to administer the Plan.

Ontario Regulation 273/14 amends Regulation 54 under the Beef Cattle Marketing Act to exempt veal cattle from that scheme such that licence fees and levies will no longer be payable to Beef Farmers of Ontario on intraprovincial sales of veal cattle.

Ontario Regulation 58/15 (Veal Cattle - Marketing) gives Veal Farmers of Ontario its powers including the power to make regulations providing for the licensing of persons engaging in the producing of veal cattle, the requirement for persons receiving veal cattle to deduct and remit licence fees payable to the new board, and the power to require persons to provide information to the local board.

Both Ontario Regulations 272/14 and 58/15 include a requirement for the marketing board to review the plan and marketing regulation with industry stakeholders within two full years of operation.

Ontario Regulations 272/14, 273/14 and 58/15 become effective on April 1, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16362&language=en

The regulations can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/140272

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/150058

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900054

Regulation 411 (Fresh Grapes - Plan)

On December 10, 2014, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended Regulation 411 (Fresh Grapes - Plan), made under the Farm Products Marketing Act, to reduce the number of electoral districts from 5 to 2. The new district structure includes district 1, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and district 2, the rest of Ontario. The amendments to Regulation 411 were approved by the Minister on January 13, 2015. The regulation was filed on January 14, 2015 and became effective on January 14, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16803&language=en

The revised regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900411

Regulation 434 (Tender Fruit - Plan) and Regulation 433 (Tender Fruit - Marketing)

On December 11, 2014, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (the "Commission") amended Regulation 433 (Tender Fruit - Marketing) and Regulation 434 (Tender Fruit - Plan) made under the Farm Products Marketing Act to change the name of the board to the Ontario Tender Fruit Growers and amend the structures of the fresh market and processing advisory committees. The amendments to Regulation 434 were approved by the Minister on January 13, 2015. The regulations were filed on January 14, 2015 and came into force on filing.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16502&language=en

The revised regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900433

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900434

Ontario Regulation 340/01 (Designation - Ontario Ginseng Growers' Association)

The amendment to Ontario Regulation 340/01 was made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and was filed with the Registrar of Regulations on November 19, 2014. The annual fee payable to the OGGA by ginseng producers has been increased to $100/acre. The amendment came into force January 1, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16402&language=en

The revised regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/010340

Ontario Regulation 484/09 (Grain (Grain Corn, Soybeans And Wheat) - Plan)

On November 19, 2014, the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amended Ontario Regulation 484/09 (Grain (Grain Corn, Soybeans And Wheat) - Plan) made under the Farm Products Marketing Act to allow the newly elected board to hold their first board meeting at any time after all the directors to the board have been elected, or in the case where a district is unable to elect a board member, after that district has notified the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) in writing that they are unable to do so. The amendments to Regulation 484/09 were approved by the Minister on December 18, 2014. The regulation was filed on December 23, 2014 and became effective on January 1, 2015.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16482&language=en

The revised regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/090484

R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 753 (Grades, Standards, Designations, Classes, Packing and Marking)

The amendment to R.R.O. 1990 Regulation 753 (Grades, Standards, Designations, Classes, Packing and Marking) was made by the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission and was filed with the Registrar of Regulations on November 19, 2014. Subsection 8 (1) of Regulation 753 was amended to add the following paragraph 5.1: A container that is three litres. The amendment came into force November 19, 2014.

More information on the regulatory change can be found at:

www.ontariocanada.com/registry/view.do?postingId=16287&language=en

The revised regulation can be found at:

www.ontario.ca/laws/regulations/900753

2015 List of Arbitrators and Conciliators

Arbitrators

  • Barry Arbus
  • J. Brian Casey
  • Peter Cathcart
  • Christopher A.L. Caruana
  • Genevieve Chornenki
  • Lisa Feld
  • Patrick T. Galligan
  • John (Jack) Dawson Ground
  • William G. Horton
  • Marvin Huberman
  • Paul Jacobs
  • John Judge
  • Michael Kelly
  • Richard Krempulec
  • Dennis Lane
  • Barry Leon
  • Bruce MacDougall
  • Edward McDermontt
  • Richard McLaren
  • Derry Millar
  • Kathryn Munn
  • Norman Pickwell
  • Allan Stitt
  • Lynda C.E. Tanaka
  • Richard Weiler

Conciliators

  • Barry Arbus
  • Peter Cathcart
  • Christopher A.L. Caruana
  • Genevieve Chornenki
  • Lisa Feld
  • Patrick T. Galligan
  • John (Jack) Dawson Ground
  • William G. Horton
  • Marvin Huberman
  • Paul Jacobs
  • John Judge
  • Michael Kelly
  • Richard Krempulec
  • Dennis Lane
  • Barry Leon
  • Bruce MacDougall
  • Edward McDermontt
  • Richard McLaren
  • Derry Millar
  • Kathryn Munn
  • Norman Pickwell
  • Allan Stitt
  • Lynda C.E. Tanaka
  • Richard Weiler

For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca