Canada and Ontario Invest in Agri-Food Biosecurity Projects

The governments of Canada and Ontario have announced a joint investment of up to $7.5 million to support 365 projects aimed at enhancing biosecurity within the province's agri-food sector. This funding is part of the Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative, which is expected to generate up to $31.5 million in total biosecurity improvements through cost-shared investments by the sector.

Eligible farmers, food processors, and select agri-food businesses can receive cost-share funding ranging from 35% to 50% for projects that focus on reducing the spread of animal and plant diseases. Examples of supported activities include the construction of isolation facilities and the implementation of technologies for disease control.

Specific projects include a grant of up to $50,000 for a sheep farm in Clarington to build a new barn for improved isolation processes, and a similar amount for an Ottawa-area farm to implement an electronic traceability system for cattle. A berry farm in the Niagara Region will receive up to $29,353 for a steam treatment system to combat pests and diseases.

This initiative is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of Canada's agriculture sector. The partnership includes $1 billion in federal programs and a $2.5-billion commitment shared between federal and provincial governments for region-specific programs.