By Paul Bootsma April 3, 2015
Spring is here; spring-like weather is sure to follow, as it always has. This weekend is the celebration of Easter, another reminder that spring has arrived. It's the time of year when we become more serious about spring preparations and putting winter behind us. It is also a time to reflect on the Easter story and remember the importance of it.
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[audio mp3="http://blackburnnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/APR-2-CFFO.mp3"][/audio] During the past winter months, the CFFO Policy Tour has been travelling the province and created a lot of discussion on a number of topics involving farming and rural Ontario. These topics included water stewardship, farmland preservation, aggregates, jobs in agriculture, neonicotinoids and land use planning. There are differing opinions on these subjects, but the topics all affect agriculture in Ontario. This is why the CFFO is discussing them with its members. The neonic issue is very concerning for farmers as many do not know what the actual facts are; many are questioning if the truth is really being told. What often is added to this discussion is genetically modified crop varieties. It seems that many people are concerned that GMO plants are also adding to the struggles of pollinators. What most people are looking for is real scientific evidence that we can all agree on to resolve this issue of bee mortality. The Premier's Challenge to the industry of creating 120,000 new jobs is often met with skepticism; most people do not see this happening since the jobs will likely have to come from the food processing industry. Many feel that because of the current economic situation there is little opportunity for expansion and they wonder what the Liberal government will do to stimulate growth in the agri-food industry. With the ever-increasing hydro rates and wages, health and safety regulations and burdening red tape, there are more concerns that business and industry will be leaving Ontario rather than optimism about new businesses starting up. But despite the concerns, farmers are once again looking forward to this spring with optimism, typical of those that work the land. Every year there is that expectation of another good growing season and a successful harvest. This is what drives farmers and we at the CFFO are also hoping for a great growing season in 2015. The goal is to produce food in a sustainable manner that will benefit society and those who produce it. As we anticipate spring planting, the Easter story reminds us that not all things are in our hands. As we reflect on the importance and values of life, let's remember who gives it each and every day. The CFFO wishes everyone a blessed time this weekend as families spend time together and enjoy each other's company around dinner tables. May we also look for the blessing from above for another prosperous year
______________________________________________________________________________________ Paul Bootsma is the Field Services Manager for the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario. The CFFO Commentary represents the opinions of the writer and does not necessarily represent CFFO policy. The CFFO Commentary is heard weekly on CFCO Chatham, CKNX Wingham, and UCB Canada radio stations in Chatham, Belleville, Bancroft, Brockville and Kingston. It is also archived on the CFFO website: www.christianfarmers.org. CFFO is supported by 4,000 family farmers across Ontario.
