Ontario Federation of Agriculture Commentary
By Jackie Kelly-Pemberton, OFA Director
Farm Business Registration (FBR) renewal notices are in the mail for all Ontario farmers. That means it’s time for farmers to choose one of three general farm organizations to represent their interests, as part of the annual renewal process.
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) knows Ontario farmers have a choice. We are honoured to be the largest general farm organization, through our long history of dedication to serving our members and representing the interests of more than 37,000 Ontario farmers.
OFA is committed to a grassroots approach to farm policy and programs and to our rural communities. Every new and renewing membership in OFA helps us dedicate more resources to achieving better farming and rural community opportunities in Ontario.
An OFA membership also includes access to OFA directors and volunteers that work on behalf of our members to secure sound agricultural and rural policies across Ontario. Dedicated Member Service Representatives are also available to work directly on issues impacting members at local, regional and county levels. All OFA members also have exclusive access to 13 partnering companies that offer special discounts and promotions through OFA’s Benefit Program.
New for 2018 is a slight increase in annual FBR fees. Approved by the government in late 2017, the annual fee increases by $30 to $225 plus HST. This fee is collected by Agricorp each year when farmers register their farm business. Agricorp then forwards the fees to the farm organization chosen by each farmer as part of the FBR process – OFA, the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
OFA is funded by membership support through FBR fees. Every new and renewing membership helps OFA represent and champion the interests of Ontario farmers through government relations, farm policy recommendations, research, lobby efforts, community representation, media relations and more. A membership means you’re among 37,000 other farm businesses who have committed to our mission of Farms and Food Forever. Thank you to all our members for your continued support.
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