Industry News - 2009 Archives

Dec. 23, 2009

Policy Changes to New Entrant Programs

For the August 2009 to February 2010 quota exchanges, the successful new entrants were, or will be, the first three to enter their bid on the quota exchanges each month.

Starting with the operation of the March 2010 quota exchange, new entrants without assistance bidding for quota will be selected to participate on a quota exchange based on the date their completed application was received by DFO. New entrants will be advised of their queue order by a separate mailing. There are currently about 20 new entrants who have been bidding for quota who have yet to be successful.

New entrants who have been selected to receive assistance under the New Entrant Quota Assistance Program (NEQAP) will also be eligible to bid on the March 2010 quota exchange.

A maximum of three new entrants from those receiving and not receiving assistance will be selected to bid on a quota exchange. For those receiving assistance, priority will be given to those who are able to start shipping milk the soonest from their farm premises.

Dec. 22, 2009

Merry Christmas! - DFO services over holiday period

We will be maintaining key services for dairy farmers, transporters and processors during the holiday period. Staff will be available, or on call, as needed. The Mississauga office will be closed between Christmas and New Year’s, reopening January 4, 2010. Producers requiring DFO services over the holiday period are to contact their local Field Services Representative.

To all dairy industry stakeholders,

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year.

Dec. 18, 2009

Tribunal denies appeal by Ontario Quota Rights Organization

The Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal has issued a ruling denying the appeal by the Ontario Quota Rights Organization of the decision of the Dairy Farmers of Ontario not to rescind its November 2006 Policy on Quota Transfers.

Click here to view the full text of the decision

Dec. 17, 2009

Quota reminders regarding sales and transfers

All quota except for transfers on the same farms, on-going operation purchases and donations to a child is to be offered on the quota exchange.

Quota from one farm cannot be merged or transferred with quota on another farm.

Producers that acquire quota as part of an on-going farm operation cannot merge or transfer the quota acquired with the farm to another farm.

Dec. 15, 2009

Reminder to dairy farmers about application deadlines

Applications to acquire or transfer quota must be received at Dairy Farmers of Ontario's head office on or before the first of the month. This includes applications and credit requirements for potential new entrants.

New entrant applications and credit requirements must be received on or before the first of the month to be eligible to participate on the exchange starting the 20th of that month. i.e., received on or before January 1 to be eligible to participate on February exchange (January 20 to February 1).

Dec. 11, 2009

Chocolate Drinks and Beverages Are Not Chocolate Milk!

Various concoctions of chocolate drinks and beverages containing some milk and other dairy ingredients have been introduced on the market by some dairy processors over the past two years. These drinks and beverages resemble chocolate milk but consumers need to make sure they are not fooled. These drinks contain other ingredients such as modified milk ingredients and/or whey products and that means they are not real chocolate milk.

In Ontario and most other provinces, the only permitted ingredients in chocolate milk other than milk are flavouring, salt, stabilizers, sweeteners, food colouring and vitamins A and D, resulting in a product that is 90% or more milk. The milk content of most chocolate drinks and beverages is considerably less than this and can be as low as 51%.

Dec. 10, 2009

DFO speakers at Dairy Day January 7

Two DFO speakers will be featured at Dairy Day on January 7 during the Grey Bruce
Farmers’ Week and Trade Show at the Elmwood Community Centre.

Nissim Avraham, Ethnic Market Specialist, will present New Trends in the Dairy Industry in Ontario
and DFO Board Member Bruce Saunders will give an industry update.

Click here for the full program schedule

Dec. 8, 2009

No change to dairy farmers industrial milk price

There will be no change to the industrial milk price on February 1, 2010, the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) recently announced.

The industrial milk price is the price processors pay farmers for milk used in manufactured dairy products such as butter, cheese and yogurt.

A small fluid milk pricing adjustment was announced in November. The price of fluid milk is set to increase by 0.334 per cent for Class 1 on February 1, 2010, effectively increasing the dairy farmers’ blend price by 11 cents per hectolitre or 0.11 cents per litre. The increase applies to the price of solids non-fat only. Only the price paid to dairy farmers is regulated, not retail prices.

Dec. 3, 2009

Eastern Ontario Counties promote artisan cheese

Four counties in East Central Ontario have joined forces to take advantage of growth opportunities in the artisan cheese industry.

Frontenac, Hastings, Lennox & Addington, and Prince Edward Counties have come together to position the area as an artisan cheese production region. They believe there is an opportunity to increase the production and distribution of artisan cheese to capture a larger share of the market.

One of the first steps the four counties took together was to develop a website that focuses on artisan cheese to help investors establish themselves there. Included on the site are links to some of the existing cheesemakers in the area.

www.investincheese.ca was launched to get the word out about artisan cheese in the area. The long-term goal of the website is to attract investment and have more artisan cheese facilities open in the area.

Nov. 30, 2009

December 1 quota reduction of 0.9475 per cent

The reduction of 0.9475 per cent effective December 1, 2009 was needed to help bring producer quotas in line with the province’s actual quota holdings and market requirements.

As part of the P5 harmonized quota policy agreement, the adjustment removes quota DFO over-issued to producers more than a year ago to encourage production in the aftermath of poor feed quality from the 2008 harvest. The reduction applies to non-saleable quota. The non-saleable quota will be 0.36 per cent effective Dec. 1, 2009.

Further quota reductions in early March or April may be required. The Canadian Milk Supply Management Committee meets late January to review current production trends and the butter stock situation and producers will be given an update following the meeting.

Producers are also reminded that fall incentive days of two days per month ended in November. Starting Dec. 1, producers must ship within their monthly quota and credits to receive within-quota prices.

Producers are also reminded over-production credits are being reduced from 20 days to 10 days effective Jan. 31. Producers below 10 days of credits as of that date will be subject to the new 10-day maximum. As well, producers at 10 days or above will have to limit production to 100 per cent of their individual quotas.

If you’ve used between 10 and 20 days as of Jan. 31, no further credits can be accumulated. Over-production credits will be reduced any month shipments are under your monthly quota and will continue to be reduced until the target cap of 10 days is reached.

Nov. 26, 2009

Grocery bags promote dairy

Reusable grocery bags sporting the 100% Canadian Milk logo are helping to promote milk and dairy products.

The bags were produced by Dairy Farmers of Canada and Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO). The project is also partnering with the Longo's grocery chain where the bulk of the bags will be distributed within the Greater Toronto Area.

If a customer purchases a four-litre bag of Beatrice milk, Astro yogurt or Longo's brand ice cream, they will get a free bag. If they do not buy any of these products, they can purchase the bag for 99 cents.

Nov. 17, 2009

Gallery of milk truck wraps on web

Eye-catching graphics on bulk tank milk trucks have become more common on Ontario highways over the past two years.

Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) began wrapping milk trailers with promotional material in 2007 as a way of reaching a larger audience in a cost-effective manner.

Since the program began in early 2007, 50 trailers have been wrapped and that number is targeted to expand.

Click here for examples of these truck wraps.

Nov. 13, 2009

Look for Milk Calendar in newspapers this month

Each year, Dairy Farmers of Canada create the Milk Calendar featuring recipes made with Canadian dairy products. There are recipes featuring milk, cheese, butter, yogurt and cream - all with easy-to-follow directions and mouth-watering photos!

Find family-friendly, nutritious Milk Calendar recipes for baked goods, side dishes, desserts, snacks and main courses to make your every day meal planning a breeze.

The Milk Calendar is distributed every November through newspapers, magazines and dairies.

Click here to find out where you can get one.

Nov. 11, 2009

Board member election results

Three DFO Board Members have been returned to new four-year terms beginning in January 2010.

In Region 2, including Carleton, Dundas and Stormont, current Board Member Norma Winters was declared acclaimed. In Region 6, which includes Dufferin, Peel, Simcoe and Wellington, current Board Member Ian Harrop was declared acclaimed.

Incumbent Board Member David Murray was re-elected in Region 10, which includes Huron and Perth, where he faced a challenge from John Van Dyk.

Nov. 4, 2009

Workshops offer farm business management info

The Canadian Farm Business Management Council (CFBMC) believes that accessible and affordable education is the key to introducing more Canadian farmers to the benefits of sound farm business management practices.

The CFBMC offers a series of webinar and one-day workshops across the country. Their website provides information on the variety of options available.

Click here for links to Value Plus, Value Chain Management, Marketing and Marketing Caravan workshops.

Click here for a page of links to various other opportunities, including Farm Credit Canada workshops.

Click here for a list of webinars available.

Oct. 30, 2009

Quota reduced by one per cent December 1

The DFO Board has made a decision to reduce the quota issued to Ontario dairy farmers by approximately one per cent on December 1, 2009.

The reduction reflects the amount of over-issued quota in Ontario and this action is part of the P5 harmonized quota policy agreement. The exact amount of the reduction will be known later in November 2009 when dairy product sales and trends to the end of October 2009 can be included in the adjustment. A letter has been sent to dairy farmers in Ontario explaining the details of the reduction.

For a copy of that letter, click here: ENGISH | FRENCH

Oct. 27, 2009

Trade deals involve real world pragmatism

DFO vice-chair Ron Versteeg's letter to the editor in the Ottawa Citizen points out that journalists have the luxury of taking an academic approach toward trade, but governments do not.

Negotiations are based on real world pragmatism, not economic models and he chides the Citizen for proudly parroting U.S. trade spin instead of exposing it as false.

For the full letter click here

Oct. 21, 2009

Premier’s Ag Innovation Awards open for 2009 applications

Applications are being accepted for the fourth year of the Premier’s Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence program. The deadline for submissions is November 16, 2009.

The five-year, $2.5-million program, announced as part of the 2006 provincial budget, recognizes that farmers have always been innovative in the running of their businesses and will foster even greater innovation across the province's agri-food sector.

There will be up to 55 regional award winners annually, with a cash prize of $5,000 each. From these winners, a Minister's Award of up to $50,000 and a Premier's Award of up to $100,000 will be selected.

A farmer, primary producer, groups of farmers, combination of agri-food businesses, or agri-food related organizations are all eligible for recognition under this initiative. A farmer must be one of the applicants in any group (i.e., eligible to obtain an Ontario Farm Business Registration number).

The innovation must have been developed and have been in use on an Ontario farm, or be in the planning stages of development with a business plan towards implementation. The innovation must also have the potential for use on a broader basis and demonstrate a positive effect on the agricultural industry.

Examples of innovations include, improved farm practices, environmental stewardship, energy innovations and traceability.

For information, visit: www.omafra.gov.on.ca

Oct. 16, 2009

Judicial Review overturns Tribunal’s Denby Group decision

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice decision on the Denby Group Judicial Review was released October 16, 2009. This ruling is regarding a decision of the Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal to grant an exemption from the quota transfer assessment for three producers who sold their quotas in early 2007.

The outcome was favourable for the application filed by Dairy Farmers of Ontario.

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice decision overturned the Tribunal decision and found that Tribunal had erred in all legal matters under judicial review.

Click here to view the full text of the decision

Oct. 9, 2009

Thanksgiving message salutes farmers

A 30-second infomercial being aired on some Ontario TV stations through the Thanksgiving weekend, recognizes the many contributions farmers make to Ontario's food production system. The Ontario Agri Business Association (OABA) produced the piece to encourage all Ontarians to support Ontario’s farm families and rural economies by purchasing and serving Ontario grown food products this Thanksgiving.

It is being aired from October 5th to 11th on CTV stations in Kitchener and Toronto, and the A-Channel in Ottawa to help communicate this important message beyond the farm gate.

OABA member firms are in the crop input, grain elevator and livestock and poultry feed sectors.

The agri-food industry often talks about the importance of “Buying Ontario”. OABA feels it is important to communicate this message beyond the farm gate and the immediate industry. They hope that this Thanksgiving message will help re-enforce the value of Ontario’s farm families and Ontario’s food production system to all Ontarians.

To view the video, click here

Oct. 8, 2009

Cows promote ice cream at the ROM

Dairy cows recently visited the world-renowned Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in downtown Toronto to increase awareness of ice cream made with 100 per cent Canadian milk. The October 6 event in front of the ROM's Michael Lee-Chin Crystal was an opportunity to remind consumers where real milk comes from and that urban life still depends in many ways on its rural surroundings.

Dairy Farmers of Ontario Board Members and staff, Dairy Farmers of Canada staff, Ontario dairy processor representatives and many others were on hand at the event. It featured Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream topped with Château des Charmes Ice Wine served with apple pie and St. Albert and Ivanhoe Ontario Cheddar Cheese.

In the accompanying photo, Dairy Farmers of Ontario Board Member Norma Winters teaches Royal Ontario Museum Chef Ted Corrado how to milk a cow.

Nestle Haagen-Dazs ice cream novelties made with 100 per cent Canadian milk were distributed to participants and passing consumers during the event.

Oct. 1, 2009

Students and MPPs enjoy milk at Queen’s Park

Kids, a couple of cows, and plenty of cold milk got lots of media attention by making a big splash at the normally staid Ontario Legislature at Queen’s Park. A ceremony commemorating Ontario’s elementary school milk program (ESMP) and World School Milk Day (WSMD) was held outside the Ontario legislature the morning of Sept. 29.

About 100 people attended the event, including media, students, teachers, school officials, and industry and government representatives. Free white and chocolate milk was distributed to everyone in attendance.

Agriculture Minister Leona Dombrowsky, Children and Youth Services Minister Deb Matthews and MPP Vic Dhillon, a long-time school milk supporter, along with two other cabinet ministers and a dozen MPPs representing all parties, were on hand to publicly endorse Ontario’s school milk program. More than 70 students from Warren Park Junior Public School in Toronto took part in the celebrations. Minister Dombrowsky joined the students milking Maple the Cow during the celebrations. Honourable Steve Peters, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London, also enjoyed some milk with Dairy Farmers of Ontario Chair Bill Emmott at the event.

As well, an award presentation recognized several long-time ESMP volunteers and supporters. Students at the event participated in several activities, including a mooing contest and helping milk Maple the Cow. They also toured the legislature.

Throughout September, close to 900,000 students in more than 2,600 Ontario elementary schools received a free carton of milk in recognition of WSMD.

Sept. 29, 2009

Agriculture Minister Leona Dombrowsky visits IPM Dairy Tent

Ontario Agriculture Minister Leona Dombrowsky enjoys an ice cream cone while visiting the dairy tent at the recent International Plowing Match (IPM) in Timiskaming.

More than 80,000 people visited the 2009 IPM in New Liskeard from September 22 to 26.

Minister Dombrowsky was among the many visitors who enjoyed ice cream cones at the dairy tent co-ordinated by the Timiskaming Dairy Producer Committee.

Sept. 25, 2009

Students and MPPs celebrate World School Milk Day

Students from a Toronto elementary school will converge on the front lawn of Queen’s Park to experience, first-hand, where milk comes from and to celebrate World School Milk Day. The event takes place on Tuesday, September 29.

World School Milk Day is an initiative of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. It is designed to raise public awareness about the importance of school milk programs and the health benefits they provide to students. More than 40 countries will celebrate this year.

Almost one million elementary school students in more than 2,600 Ontario schools will celebrate World School Milk Day with a free carton of milk provided by Ontario dairy farmers, processors and milk distributors. In 2009-10, the school milk program is expected to operate in more than 2,800 schools, representing more than 70 per cent of Ontario’s elementary schools.

The Queen’s Park event will include nearly 70 elementary students, school officials, school milk program volunteers, dairy industry representatives and MPPs. The Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and the Minister of Children and Youth Services both hope to join the students in milking the life-sized “cows”.

For more information on World School Milk Day click here

Sept. 22, 2009

U.S. dairy task force looks at milk pricing

A proposal to change the U.S. milk pricing system is moving ahead through The National Milk Producers Federation's (NMPF) Strategic Planning Task Force.

The Task Force has agreed to a four-part approach in implementing changes in federal dairy policies and how farm milk prices are established.

The four features of the plan include revamping safety nets such as the Milk Income Loss Contract program; creating a new dairy producer income insurance program; addressing the need to improve participation in NMPF's Co-operatives Working Together; and reforming the Federal Milk Marketing Order program.

As this progresses, the NMPF is also urging the federal government to provide $350 million in aid to dairy farmers this fall. They are recommending Congress allocate money to purchase cheese products that would be donated to food banks and charitable organizations serving needy populations.

For a new release from NMPF, click here

Sept. 18, 2009

Belgian farmers dump milk in protest

Sept. 16, 2009

Farm gate returns drop in many commodities

Returns to many farmers have dropped over the past year, despite rising grocery bills for consumers.

A recent research project showed that an average of only 27 per cent of the cost of an entire week's worth of groceries for a family of four goes back to the farm gate. There was a rise in the cost of groceries by 3.2 per cent from 2008 to 2009, but producers received less money than in the previous year.

The Farmers' Share, commissioned by Keystone Agricultural Producers of Manitoba, Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan and Wild Rose Agricultural Producers of Alberta, showed the average farmers' share decreased about one per cent. The project sourced farm prices between April and June of 2008 and 2009 and priced groceries in May 2008 and June 2009.

The farmers' share percentage varied depending on the food group. The study also noted that less-processed foods often showed a greater return to the farmer than more heavily processed products, such as bread or grain products. Notably, dairy returns stayed the most consistent, with 53 per cent of the retail price going back to the producer.

For more information, click here

Sept. 10, 2009

European dairy farmers demand more financial support

European Union (EU) farm ministers are looking at ways to help struggling farmers dealing with the global financial crisis and dropping milk prices.

Farm ministers from 16 EU nations are demanding more immediate financial aid for their dairy farmers. There is also a recognition that measures need to be taken to make farmers less dependent on fluctuating markets.

For news coverage, click here

Sept 8, 2009

Chapman's plans to rebuild

A fire on Friday, September 4, destroyed the main Chapman's ice cream production facility in Markdale, but the company owners have said they will rebuild.

Contractors had been working on an expansion project at the plant and a spark from a welding torch is attributed as the cause of the blaze.

The company will be able to continue distributing product for the time being from its cold-storage distribution centre, also in Markdale.

For coverage of this click here

Aug 27, 2009

September Quota Exchange will open Aug. 28

For the August 2009 quota exchange, payments for successful quota bids are due at noon on September 8, 2009.

A reminder to Ontario dairy farmers, the September 2009 quota exchange will open at 12:00:00 a.m. on August 28, 2009 and close at 11:59:59 p.m. on September 11, 2009.

Purchases and sales on the September 2009 quota exchange will be effective October 1, 2009.

For the September 2009 quota exchange, payments for successful quota bids are due on September 30, 2009.

Aug 25, 2009

Quota reduction possible as early as November 1

At its August meeting, the DFO Board discussed reducing the over-issued quota and the potential of reducing fall incentive days. Both issues will be discussed with our P5 partners in September with the intention of bringing the issues to the DFO Board meeting at the end of September.

As reported in the August Dairy Farmer Update, milk production is now above current market demand and this means it may be necessary to respond by lowering quotas or limiting the use of quota credits this fall.

July and August production in Ontario was about two per cent above quota. Ontario’s 1.3 per cent non-saleable quota will likely be reduced as early as November 1 in response to the supply situation. Ontario production is typically less than 95 per cent of quota in August and September.

Aug 21, 2009

World School Milk Day 2009 fast approaching

In September, the Ontario dairy industry will unite once again to celebrate World School Milk Day (WSMD) in elementary schools across Ontario. Over 910,000 students in more than 2,600 schools will receive complimentary milk with supporting school and classroom curriculum-based teaching activities in recognition of WSMD.

This year, the Ontario Dairy Council, Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Licensed Independent Dairy Distributors of Ontario, and Ontario dairies have once again agreed to offer students complimentary milk to acknowledge and celebrate WSMD. In doing so, they will also promote the Elementary School Milk Program. The focus of WSMD is to showcase milk’s health benefits and its contribution to helping elementary school children thrive physically and achieve academic success.

Ontario’s successful Elementary School Milk Program is in more than 70 per cent of Ontario schools. We want to continue to expand this to include more students and more schools.

For more information on the 2009 World School Milk Day click here

Aug 18, 2009

A U.S. approach to supply management

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) recently announced its third cow cull conducted in the last nine months. This is the second-largest cull since the farmer-funded program started in 2003.

This latest round removed more than 86,000 cows or 1.8 billion pounds of milk. The previous cull, completed in July 2009, removed a record 101,000 cows and 1.96 billion pounds of milk. In total the three culls equaled a total production capacity of 4.8 billion pounds of milk being removed since December 2008.

The CWT plans additional cow culls this year if needed to address the supply-demand imbalance, says Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of National Milk Producers Federation, which administers CWT.

For more information click here: http://cwt.coop/about/news_releases/news_release_080509.pdf

Aug 7, 2009

August Quota Exchange will operate under new harmonized policies

The Tribunal has ordered that the stay will be limited in scope to the 41 members of the OQRO who are active milk producers.

As a result of this decision, Dairy Farmers of Ontario is able to implement the new harmonized quota policies.

The August 2009 quota exchange had been delayed pending the consideration of the stay by the Tribunal. As a result of the Tribunal decision, the August 2009 quota exchange will open at 12:00:00 a.m. on August 12, 2009 and close at 11:59:59 p.m. on August 21, 2009.

Purchases and sales on the August 2009 quota exchange are effective September 1, 2009.

A detailed explanation of this issue is being sent to all Ontario dairy farmers by mail.

View a copy of the letter here: ENGLISH | FRENCH

July 28, 2009

DFO awaits Tribunal decision regarding stay

Mr. Frank Handy, the Tribunal member considering DFO's motion to lift or limit the stay that is in place by virtue of appeals by the Ontario Quota Rights Organization, Jean-Marie Menard, Jacques Lamarche and Doyle Harrigan, advised at the conclusion of the pre-hearing conference on July 27, 2009 that he would consider the matters carefully and provide a verbal decision as soon as possible, followed by written reasons. The new harmonized quota policies cannot be implemented while the stay is in place.

This site will be updated when a decision is provided.

July 21, 2009

August Quota Exchange Delay Continued

Dairy Farmers of Ontario and the Ontario Quota Rights Organization (OQRO) appeared at a Tribunal pre-hearing conference on July 20, 2009 to deal with a motion by the OQRO to adjourn the pre-hearing conference and a motion by DFO to lift or limit the stay. Other preliminary matters such as timelines for the provision of materials were also considered.

The pre-hearing conference was adjourned until July 27, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. Arguments related to the stay will be considered when the pre-hearing conference recommences.

The opening of the August 2009 quota exchange continues to be delayed until a decision on the stay is provided by the Tribunal. DFO will make a decision on whether or not it can operate the August 2009 quota exchange at its next meeting on July 29, 2009.

Regarding the hearing, the Tribunal directed the OQRO to provide materials by August 31, 2009. DFO provided its hearing materials on July 20, 2009. If the OQRO files an expert report with its materials, DFO has 21 days following the receipt of the OQRO materials to respond. As a result of these timelines, the earliest the OQRO appeal will be heard is late September or early October 2009. It could be later if scheduling is an issue for any of the parties.

July 17, 2009

August quota exchange delayed

Dairy Farmers of Ontario is appearing at a pre-hearing conference before the Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal on Monday July 20 to ask that the stay be lifted or limited and the announced August 1 quota policy changes proceed unimpeded by the appeal currently before the Tribunal.

As a result, the opening of the August quota exchange will be delayed until there is a response from the Tribunal or until a decision by the DFO Board at its next meeting on July 29.

July 10, 2009

Tribunal process could create policy limbo

The end of the quota transfer assessment, the start of the New Entrant Quota Assistance Program and other changes to quota policies developed during more than a year of consultations with dairy farmers across Ontario may be in limbo because of a last-minute appeal filed with Ontario’s Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal.

View a copy of the letter sent to Ontario dairy farmers explaining the issue. ENGLISH | FRENCH

July 7, 2009

Learn succession planning tips

The Canadian Farm Business Management Council is hosting a conference on farm succession for producers, consultants and industry stakeholders. It offers an opportunity to hear from industry experts and fellow farmers to make your farm business succession a smooth transition to the next generation.

The 2009 International Farm Succession Conference will take place August 26-28 at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City. With expert speakers from Europe, the United States and Canada this event is sure to be a great learning experience for all.

More information about the conference can be found at www.farmcentre.com

July 3, 2009

American dairy farmers considering supply management

A movement to promote a supply management program for the U.S. dairy industry seems to be growing.

Information on the website of the leading dairy publication in the U.S., Hoard’s Dairyman, outlines supply management and milk price stabilization options being promoted in the U.S. In fact, the June 2009 Hoard’s editorial supports the Dairy Price Stabilization Program proposal saying, “If there ever were a time to come to grips with the need for supply management, that time is now. People with all sizes of operations from all parts of the country know the need and are demanding action.”

The Dairy Price Stabilization Program is described as a national, mandatory supply management program administered through the U. S. Department of Agriculture. Allowable milk marketings would be determined for each farmer and those who expanded production above their base would pay a market access fee.

The proposal has the support of Dairy Farmers Working Together, a grassroots dairy producer group that supports providing price stability through a new national dairy program.

Click here for the Hoard’s Dairyman website.

June 26, 2009

Important message regarding the July 2009 Quota Exchange

Please be advised that quota purchased on the July quota exchange will have a small portion that will be designated as non-saleable quota on August 1, 2009. The non-saleable amount of all Ontario quota will be set at a level equal to the current over-issuance of quota in the province. It is estimated that 1.25 to 1.5 percent of provincial quota will be non-saleable on August 1, 2009.

A portion of Ontario quota is being made non-saleable because of an agreement to designate any over-issued quota in each of the P5 provinces as non-saleable. A further explanation is being sent to all Ontario dairy farmers by mail. Please take this information into account when placing offers or bids on the July 2009 quota exchange.

View a copy of the letter. ENGLISH | FRENCH

June 24, 2009

European Union may aid dairy farmers

The European Union (EU) is looking at options to stabilize dairy markets. EU leaders, meeting recently in Brussels, told the European Commission to present an in-depth market analysis, including possible options to stabilize the dairy market.

European dairy farmers have been protesting dropping milk prices and an EU plan to scrap quotas. Farmers say current milk prices don’t cover their cost of production.

Click here for the news item

June 23, 2009

Canadian dairy stats available online

If you are looking for comprehensive information about the Canadian dairy industry, check the Statistics of the Canadian Dairy Industry 2008, now available on the Dairy Information Centre website.

A joint publication of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Dairy Farmers of Canada, Dairy Processors Association of Canada and the Canadian Dairy Commission, the publication includes information on Canadian markets for dairy products and dairy animal genetics.

Click here for more information

June 19, 2009

Read the label and make sure it says Ice Cream

Chapman’s Ice Cream has launched an informative new TV campaign to make sure consumers are not fooled into thinking that “frozen desserts” are the same as Ice Cream.

Chapman’s makes ice cream with 100% Canadian milk that you can spot by looking for the Blue Cow on the label.

If it doesn’t say Ice Cream on the label, then it’s not Ice Cream!

Check out Chapman’s TV ads here

June 17, 2009

DFO celebrates local food at Queen's Park event

Ontario is boosting grassroots marketing efforts for Ontario foods by encouraging more people to buy locally grown food.

The province hosted a farmers’ market on the lawn of Queen’s Park on June 16, involving 24 exhibitors representing dozens of fresh Ontario products, from asparagus to ice cream.

Premier Dalton McGuinty toured the length of the farmers' market, chatting with the public and market participants. He stopped at the Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) booth and was treated to a chocolate ice cream cone -- his favourite flavour.

Leona Dombrowsky, Ontario's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, got in on the action, scooping some of the more than 800 ice cream cones given out at the DFO booth. As part of the annual event, Kawartha Dairy provided ice cream and Gay Lea Foods provided milk at the DFO booth.

“Our efforts are paying off. We are bringing together local food networks including producers, processors, retailers and individuals dedicated to selling the fresh foods that are grown and made right here in Ontario,” said Minister Dombrowsky.

June 15, 2009

Ice cream promotion hits the roads

The bright, catchy milk truck wraps that have been gracing Ontario roads have a new addition.

The latest truck wrap encourages consumers to choose real ice cream, made from milk and cream, over frozen desserts. The truck wrap supports the theme of the current Ice Crime and Nice Cream advertisements from Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC).

The DFC ice cream campaign encourages consumers to choose ice cream made from 100 per cent Canadian cows’ milk and/or 100 per cent Canadian milk ingredients. The goal of the initiative is to promote ice cream made from milk and/or cream, to promote those products using domestic milk and/or cream that use the 100% Canadian Milk logo and to educate consumers that frozen dessert is not ice cream.

June 10, 2009

On-farm processor wins Premier's Innovation award

Saugeen Country Dairy in Grey County was one of seven agri-food regional award winners recognized by the provincial government for their innovative ideas. The on-farm processor recently received one of the regional awards under the Premier's Agri-Food Innovation Excellence awards.

The Premier's Agri-Food Innovation Excellence awards are part of a $2.5-million, five-year program (now in its third year) established to recognize innovators who contribute to the success of Ontario's agri-food sector. The Premier's Award can be up to $100,000; the Minister's award can be up to $50,000. Local events across the province recognized 55 regional award winners, who are receiving $5,000 each for their innovations.

At Saugeen Country Dairy, the owners operate both a certified organic dairy farm and an on-farm dairy. Saugeen has been making and selling organic yogurt since 1994 using milk produced on the farm.

"These innovations help to strengthen our local agri-food sector, which is such an important contributor to Ontario's economy. I am pleased to recognize the achievements of these local innovators with these awards," says Carol Mitchell, MPP for Huron-Bruce.

To learn more about this year's award winning innovations click here

June 8, 2009

Ontario promotes local food

Ontario is boosting local food sales by supporting marketing projects across the province.
To promote local foods, the province is investing in 11 new projects through the Ontario Market Investment Fund.

The four-year Ontario Market Investment Fund program has invested more than $2.5 million in 46 projects to date. The program helps develop economic opportunities through trade events, marketing campaigns and industry research initiatives that promote Ontario foods. The program is part of Ontario’s enhanced investment in ‘buy local’ initiatives.

For more information click here

June 2, 2009

Lower prices for New Zealand dairy farmers

Fonterra, New Zealand’s dairy monopoly and the world’s largest dairy exporter, is forecasting a 12.5 per cent cut in its milk payment to dairy farmers for the 2009-2010 production season.

The move will take hundreds of millions of dollars out of the New Zealand economy, says a news item in the High Plains/Midwest Ag Journal.

A worldwide surplus of milk and the current economic situation are making the frequently chaotic global milk market even more vulnerable.

May 29, 2009

Dairy Farmers of Canada welcomes investment in dairy research

Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) welcomed a recent announcement that the federal government is investing $12 million to build a new dairy barn complex for research in dairy production. The Dairy and Swine Research and Development Centre in Sherbrooke, Quebec is the only federal government-owned research facility which includes a dairy barn.

“This is great news for dairy producers,” said Jacques Laforge, DFC President. “New investments to build a modern, ecological, high-tech dairy barn facility will advance the possibilities of research in dairy production in Canada.”

Other research dairy barns in several locations across Canada are affiliated with post-secondary education institutions. All of these institutions and their reputable researchers have contributed to the significant advancement of high-quality research in dairy production that has been realized over the last 25 years.

DFC has a long history in supporting research, contributing about $2 million a year to research in dairy production, animal care and improvement as well as the role of dairy products in human nutrition and health.

DFC looks forward to continue to partner with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the National Research Council and other partners to invest in research in sustainable dairy production to be conducted in the new facilities. DFC hopes the new facilities will help attract and train new researchers specializing in dairy production priority issues, including sustainable development, environment, greenhouse gas reduction, production efficiency, genetic improvement and animal nutrition.

May 27, 2009

Oxford Dairy Producer Committee seeks Dairy Educator

Oxford DPC is looking for a self-motivated, enthusiastic individual who exhibits flexibility in an ever-changing environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in the field of education and enjoy working with elementary students. Agricultural knowledge will be considered an asset.

Click here for further information.

May 26, 2009

U.S. program okays largest-ever cow cull

The latest round of the Cooperatives Working Together program will cull more than 100,000 cows, equivalent to two billion pounds of milk, in the biggest ever herd cull for the program.

The U.S. supply management program aims to stabilize milk supplies and strengthen milk prices by removing dairy cows, and therefore, milk supplies, from the market. Dairy farmers offer bids to retire, or cull, their entire herd.

Click here for a CWT news release.

May 22, 2009

ICE CRIME - Beware of “frozen desserts”

Dairy Farmers of Canada has launched a new ice cream campaign that will encourage consumers to choose ice cream made from 100 per cent Canadian cows’ milk and/or 100 per cent Canadian milk ingredients.

The goal of the initiative is to promote ice cream made from milk and/or cream, to promote those products using domestic milk and or cream that use the 100% Canadian Milk logo and to educate consumers that frozen dessert is not ice cream.

The campaign consists of two advertisements over three executions in newspapers across Canada. The second set of ads will run in June and July.

May 21, 2009

Growing Forward - Food Safety and Traceability Initiative

Need a new water treatment system for treating your milkhouse water on your farm?

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has a Food Safety and Traceability Initiative (FSTI) program that is now accepting applications from farms. This funding will help farms adopt food safety and traceability practices.

FSTI provides 75 per cent reimbursement of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $20,000 under three options.

• Project Option 1: Implementing a Food Safety Program or a Traceability System (75 per cent reimbursement of eligible expenses up to $20,000) may apply to a few producers in Ontario. Applicants will develop, write and implement a food safety program, individual food safety practices, or a working traceability system.
  
• Project Option 2 is for existing Food Safety Programs and does not really apply for dairy producers at this time.
  
• Project Option 3: Improving Food Safety or Traceability offers up to $5,000 per applicant (75 per cent reimbursement of eligible expenses up to $5,000) and will be the most available option to producers in general. Under this option applicants may purchase equipment, engage in training, or obtain certification, audit or verification (first time only) of a recognized food safety program.

Applicants MUST attend an OMAFRA Information Session before applying for Project Option 1 only.

For more information see the links below.

OMAFRA website

View the list of information meetings

May 19, 2009

Dairy farmers in many countries feel pinch of recession

Dairy farmers in many countries feel the pinch on plunging prices and are requesting their government to intervene to alleviate the situation.

The global recession is continuing to weigh on consumer demand, according to New Zealand dairy co-op Fonterra. The average price for whole milk powder across all products and contract periods in the May GlobalDairyTrade auction was US$2 144/tonne, 4.1 per cent down on April, with prices ranging from $2 085/t to $2 220/t. However, prices rose almost 2 per cent for contracts with short-term delivery.

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, low-priced cheese imports are causing problems for UK producers, and is one of the factors forcing one co-op to cut the price it pays its farmers. Also, producers, processors, dairy co-operatives and retail representatives in Scotland have been invited to a Dairy Summit at the Scottish Parliament on May 27. It follows the latest round of protests by farmers in Scotland, and throughout Europe, over milk prices, urgently pointing out the need to rebalance supply and demand.

The Scottish Environment minister Roseanna Cunningham also said many producers faced uncertainty due to two “major concerns” regarding labelling and prices in particular. The number of dairy producers in England and Wales has fallen by 4.7 per cent in a year, according to latest data. Best possible estimates put the number of producers in England at 9,681, a fall of 4.8 per cent (488) when compared with April 2008. The UK will have to import 50 per cent of its dairy needs in a little over 20 years time if current trends continue, DairyCo said in a report last month.

In Germany, the government is facing a nationwide series of protests over milk prices, and is said to be considering financial aid for the industry. In a Dairy Markets report, it said that six women have gone on hunger strike in Berlin as the German protests over low milk prices deepen. “The goal is to strengthen the food supply chain and retain supplies of high quality food at appropriate prices,” Agriculture minister Ilse Aigner, said in a statement, reported by Reuters. The German retail association HDE said milk prices were falling because the market was oversupplied. “Farmers must seek to produce less milk and this could be achieved by reducing the number of cows with state support,” said HDE spokesman Hubertus Pellengahr. “When consumers face higher prices during periods of tight supply then they must also profit from price reductions in current times,” he said.

Meanwhile, in the U.S., more than 100,000 dairy cows are to be removed from herds and sold to slaughterhouses in a bid to boost prices by curbing U.S. milk output. The buyout will reduce U.S. milk production capacity by two billion pounds according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Prices have fallen 27 per cent in the past six months, according to Chicago futures figures quoted by the financial news service Bloomberg. Informa's own figures also point to a continuing decline.

Reprinted from Dairy Famers of Canada’s Action Fax.

May 14, 2009

U.S. dairy farmers fight milk price chaos

The National Milk Producers Federation is forming a strategic task force to look at ways to deal with the over supply of milk and low farm milk prices. The group will look at ideas to control the market, such as changes to the Cooperatives Working Together program and possibly some type of supply management program.

Click here for more information

May 11, 2009

DFO's Harmonized Quota Policies

May 7, 2009

Canada seeks trade action on COOL

The Canadian government has taken the next step in the World Trade Organization dispute settlement process by formally seeking further consultations with the U.S. in regard to Country-of-Origin Labelling (COOL).

The U.S. legislation imposes mandatory COOL labeling for beef, pork, lamb, chicken and goat meat. The Canadian government made the move due to concerns about negative impacts of COOL on Canadian exporters.

Click here for more background on this issue.

May 4, 2009

Agricultural employment links available

We’ve added a link called "Ag Employment" under the Farmers section, to assist dairy farmers looking for farm employees.

Dairy farmers who are looking for an employee for their dairy farm, or individuals seeking employment on a dairy farm, may want to take a look at these agricultural employment websites.

Each of these sites has agricultural job listings. As well, there is information on each site outlining how employers can post jobs and those seeking employment can post their resumes.

• Ag Careers
  
• Bestard Agricultural
  
• Tilecroft Farms (primarily Eastern Ontario listings)
  
• Ontario Farmer (click on classifieds link)
  
• Agrinet (Western Canada)
  
• Summer job opportunities with the Ontario government

April 30, 2009

DFO announces program to assist new dairy farmers

Dairy Farmers of Ontario is launching a new program that will make it easier for new dairy farmers to get into the dairy industry in Ontario.

The program will work in part by loaning quota for up to 16 years to 10 new dairy farmers each year. Successful applicants in the program will be loaned a maximum of 12 kilograms of quota which they will be required to match with a commercial purchase of 12 kilograms of quota. This means a new farmer under the program would be starting with between 25 and 30 cows. The program was designed to help ensure these new farm businesses can be viable.

For the full news release click here

April 27, 2009

2009 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix winners announced

Two Ontario cheeses are among the winners in the 2009 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix. The Canadian Cheese Grand Prix is a competition celebrating the high quality and proud tradition of Canadian cheeses.

The Grand Champion of the 6th Canadian Cheese Grand Prix was Kénogami in the Washed-rind Cheese division. It is produced by Fromagerie Lehmann in Quebec.

Ontario winners included Black Diamond Feta, Parmalat, in the Fresh cheese division, and Provolone Pignata from International Cheese Co. Ltd. in the Pasta Filata Cheese Division.

Winners in the 16 categories included eight from Quebec, three from Alberta, two from Ontario, two from Nova Scotia and one from Prince Edward Island. The Canadian Cheese Grand Prix is held every two years by Dairy Farmers of Canada to recognize the best in Canadian cheese making.

Finalists for the Canadian Cheese Grand Prix were selected in February. There were 48 finalists in 16 categories including a number of Ontario cheesemakers – Empire Cheese and Butter Company, International Cheese Co. Ltd., Parmalat, Silani Sweet Cheese Ltd., St-Albert Cheese Co-operative Inc. and Thornloe Cheese.

For more details on the Cheese Grand Prix winners click here

April 20, 2009

Chocolate milk powers high school athletes

Central Huron Secondary School Track and Field athletes have been training indoors since mid-February and have been enjoying chocolate milk after their Wednesday practices thanks to the Huron County Milk Producers.

Recent studies suggest that consuming foods and beverages rich in protein and carbohydrates 15 to 30 minutes after a vigorous workout can help recharge your body. The unique mix of key nutrients in chocolate low-fat milk makes it an ideal post-exercise choice.

See more information on the school website.

March 30, 2009

Huron and Perth County P5 Information Meetings

Huron and Perth Counties have spring information meetings scheduled this week. These meetings will now focus on the recent P5 quota policy decisions.

The Perth Dairy Producer P5 Information Meeting will be held at the Perth East Recreation Complex, Milverton on April 1, 2009 at 8 p.m.

Contact: Norm Bedard (347-2596) or dairyboy@omniglobe.ca for more information.

The Huron Dairy Producer P5 Information Meeting will be held April 2, 2009 at the Brussels Legion at 8 p.m.

March 27, 2009

DFO Updates Producer Quota Policies

At the March 24 and 25, 2009 Board Meeting, the DFO Board approved recommendations to implement a number of quota policy changes as a result of the Report of the P5 Quota Committee proposal that has been under consideration since October 2008. The new polices will be effective August 1, 2009.

Most of these policies are also being adopted in the other P5 provinces, with a goal of a common set of quota policies for all farmers in the pool. The P5 pool includes Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

As part of the changes, the transfer assessment, the 10-kg exemption and the pay-what-you-bid policies will be eliminated effective August 1, 2009.

The main new policies include the introduction of a quota price cap, a new entrant assistance program, a change in the over-production credit limit and the introduction of future quota increases as non-saleable quota.

A letter providing preliminary details about the quota policy changes has been mailed to all Ontario dairy farmers. Click here for a pdf version of the English letter... and here for the French letter.

DFO-sponsored information meetings will be organized to help explain the new policies.

The complete details of how these changes will be implemented will be included in the new edition of the DFO Policies book. It is scheduled to be distributed with the July issue of the Milk Producer and will be posted on this web site.

March 18, 2009

Quota Incentive Days Announced Beginning in April

The Board decided today, at a conference call meeting, to issue quota incentive days leading up to the fall period. The new quota incentive days will be as follows: a half day for each of April and May; one day for June; and, one and a half days for July. The previously announced fall incentive days of 2 days per month will then apply for the months of August through November.

The most recent production information and trends indicate that Ontario will fill about 98.5 % of its quota this dairy year. The Board felt there needs to be encouragement to increase production now in order to minimize the risk of potential market shortages going into the fall period.

Producers are reminded that they should always strive to fill 100% of their quota at all times throughout the year.

March 16, 2009

Beginning farmers invited to OFA session

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture wants to help develop initiatives to support beginning farmers in Ontario. They have established a task team to consider what is needed to encourage young people to enter agriculture.

They will be bringing beginning farmers and experienced farmers together to examine the issues at a session on March 21 in Delaware.

For those unable to attend the summit, a Facebook site is set up with the group called: Creating Answers for Beginning Ontario Famers. Young farmers are welcome to join that group and get involved in the discussion. Results of the Facebook submissions will be discussed at the summit at 11 a.m.

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by March 18 to rebecca.lunn@ofa.on.ca or call 1-877-668-3276.

For more information click here

March 13, 2009

Chapman’s Ice Cream is proudly Canadian

All of Chapman’s Ice Cream is made with 100% Canadian milk and the company has launched media advertising and Web site promotion to make consumers aware of the fact.

Chapman’s Ice Cream is using the 100% Canadian milk logo as a partner in Dairy Farmers of Canada’s national real ice cream branding initiative.

For more details, check out Chapman’s web site

March 4, 2009

Farm inspectors must show photo ID

Dairy farmers across Ontario are reminded to require authorized photo identification from any individuals requesting entry on to farm premises, from anyone presenting themselves as regulatory inspectors or for any other unusual purpose. The photo identification must be from the appropriate regulatory agency - Drivers licenses are NOT sufficient identification.

Ontario Provincial Police issued a warning following an incident in western Ontario in late February involving a man falsely claiming to be an inspector with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

For general security and biosecurity purposes, DFO recommends keeping a record of all farm visitors.

If individuals attempt to gain entry to dairy farm premises without providing proper identification, try and record vehicle license plate numbers and general description details and report them to police and DFO.

March 4, 2009

Pasteurization only kills pathogens – Globe and Mail

Pasteurization of milk has been mandatory for decades and for good reason, says Andre Picard in this recent Globe and Mail column.

In this column, he makes reference to the Michael Schmidt trial and Schmidt’s baseless claims that unpasteurized milk has some additional health benefits. “The implication here is that pasteurization somehow robs milk of nutrients, but these claims have little scientific basis,” says Picard. “Let’s be clear: Pasteurization robs milk of its pathogens and not much else.”

Countries that do allow the sale of raw milk do so with a strict warning that it must be boiled (pasteurized) before consuming, adds Picard.

To read the full article, click here

February 26, 2009

DFO Board Meeting Decisions

At its Board Meeting this week, the DFO Board made the following decisions regarding the current milk supply situation and quota policies.

• It was decided not to issue any quota incentive days at this time. Butter stock levels have risen significantly over the past month and time is needed to analyse this situation. This analysis will be considered by the Board at its regular meeting in March or sooner if deemed necessary.
  
• A 2009 fall incentive program was approved. Two incentive days will be issued for each of the months from August through November. This decision is in keeping with the agreement reached at the P5 on fall incentive days.
  
• The P5 quota harmonization proposal as presented in December 2008 was accepted by the Board for implementation on the condition that all P5 provinces agree to the proposal.

A detailed implementation plan is to be developed for the Board’s consideration at the March Board Meeting.

February 25, 2009

Advanced Ag Leadership Program accepting applications

Are you looking for an opportunity to develop your leadership skills and increase your knowledge of critical issues in the agriculture industry? Applications for Class 13 of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) are being accepted until March 13, 2009.

Established in 1984, AALP is an executive leadership and personal development program for men and women in all sectors of Ontario’s agriculture and food industry who aspire to help shape the future of Ontario’s agriculture, agri-food and rural sectors. AALP is delivered by The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL).

Study topics include: marketing and economics, environmental impact, national and international trade, communication and organization skills, decision making, consumer and social issues, trends in the agri-food industry and society, and globalization and the dynamics of change.

The next class begins in late September 2009 and participants will graduate in April 2011.

For more information on AALP call (519) 826-4204 or visit the AALP website for more information and to get an application kit.

February 20, 2009

Imported butteroil causing crisis in Indian dairy industry

There is concern that imports of butteroil will cause a crisis in the Indian dairy industry, according to a news item in Thaindian News, a Thailand news site.

Naresh Gujral, the son of India’s former prime minister, claims that European countries and New Zealand are dumping butteroil due to generous subsidies from their governments. Butteroil is the raw material for making Ghee in India.

He also warned the U.S. is contemplating reintroducing a Dairy Export Incentive program, which would worsen the problem.

Gujral claims the butteroil imports have depressed demand and the price for raw milk being produced by Indian farmers. He is urging his government to protect Indian farmers with an increased import duty to ensure the country doesn’t become a dumping ground for heavily subsidized imported butteroil. He is also urging them to withdraw the five per cent import duty on butteroil which was offered to cooperatives in April 2008 when world prices were high.

Subsidized butteroil-sugar blends have caused similar concerns for the Canadian dairy industry with ice cream production.

Read the entire article here

February 11, 2009

Easier way to do Standard Operating Procedures

If you’re one of the farmers who still haven’t completed your standard operating procedures (SOPs), there’s about to be an easier way to handle the process on DFO’s Web site.

As of March 1, you can fill out interactive templates on DFO’s Web site. The new system replaces the static templates that were previously available online.

As part of the Canadian Quality Milk (CQM) program, farmers are required to develop written SOPs for pre-milking, milking, post milking, livestock medicines, and animal identification. This ensures everyone follows on-farm procedures that are based on best-management practices.

The new system lets you develop a new SOP or edit an existing SOP without having to write it down on paper. You can use the SOP wizard to create your SOP from a template or a blank SOP. Customizing your SOP is easy since the wizard lets you choose from a list of operating procedures. Once completed, you can save and print the SOP.

After registration, if you make changes to your practices, you can edit your SOP or create a new SOP. You can do so by copying from the original SOP on file or by starting the process again using the SOP wizard.

For more details, check the Dairy Update section in the March issue of The Milk Producer magazine

February 2, 2009

Incentive days considered to increase milk production

The milk supply situation in most of eastern Canada is low and this is prompting Dairy Farmers of Ontario to consider action next month to encourage more milk production to make sure all markets are filled.

These actions could include incentive days beginning as early as March and continuing until the fall incentive period begins in August.

Current milk supply trends show Ontario may fill only 98 per cent of its quota this dairy year. The milk production situation is mainly due to poor feed quality in the 2008 crop. In addition, butter and cheese stocks are also trending down.

Milk production levels in the Maritime provinces are low and Quebec’s milk production has also been down this year. Since Ontario and Quebec make up 94 per cent of milk in the P5 pool, their shared trend dominates and makes the P5 supply situation tight in 2009.

As the P5 provinces increase efforts to manage the market at the pool level, DFO is asking the P5 staff involved to review milk production, inventory levels and market demand and bring a common P5 supply report for consideration at DFO’s meeting at the end of February.

“It’s our job to fill markets,” said DFO Chair Bill Emmott. “The main message for our farmers is to aim to fill 100 per cent of their quota.”

January 26, 2009

DFO Governance Review

Dairy Farmers of Ontario commissioned an independent governance review in 2008 conducted
by Deloitte, an international consulting firm.

The DFO Board supported conducting the review in late 2007 following a resolution from delegates to the organization’s annual Fall Policy Conference and these results of the review were presented by a Deloitte representative at the 2008 Fall Policy Conference in Alliston on October 14 to 16, 2008.

The organization is developing plans to follow up on the recommendations and progress will be reported back to delegates at the 2009 Spring Regional meetings and Fall Policy Conference.

January 19, 2009

DFO applying for Judicial Review

The Board of Dairy Farmers of Ontario decided at a meeting on January 15, 2009 to make an Application for Judicial Review following confirmation of a decision of the Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal to grant an exemption from the quota transfer assessment for three producers who sold their quotas in early 2007. The reason for this request is that, based on legal advice, the Board is of the view that there were serious errors of law in this case.

January 16, 2009

DFO board elects executive

Bill Emmott was elected chair of Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Ron Versteeg was elected 1st Vice-Chair and John Palmer was elected 2nd Vice-Chair at a DFO board meeting on January 15.

Mr. Emmott served as vice-chair since January 2005 and on the board since 1999. He represents dairy farmers in Brant, Haldimand, Halton, Niagara, Norfolk and Wentworth counties.

Mr. Versteeg has served as board member representing dairy farmers in Glengarry, Prescott and Russell counties since 2005.

Mr. Palmer has served as board member representing dairy farmers in Oxford and Waterloo counties since 2000.

January 14, 2009

Annual Meeting Highlights

Chairman's Address to DFO’s 43rd annual meeting

Concerns about the economic downturn’s potential impact on Canadian dairy product sales, strong actions by the federal and provincial governments in trade negotiations and plans to reinforce the value of Canada’s world-leading milk quality standards through a new “100% Canadian Milk” branding program were among the highlights for dairy farmers in the last year, said Bruce Saunders, chair of Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO). See full text of this news release here.

View all the presentations and news releases from the 2009 Annual Meeting

January 12, 2009

Over-quota charge eliminated

At its December meeting, DFO’s Board agreed to eliminate the over-quota charge effective January 1. This means there will be zero payment for over-quota milk shipped in January 2009 and beyond.

Deductions for administration, transportation, promotion, research and CanWest DHI will continue to apply to any over-quota shipments.