Ontario's apple and tender fruit growers have been allocated nearly $1.1 million by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. This funding aims to support initiatives enhancing the development of climate-resilient fruit varieties. Among the projects are efforts to gather data on the climate impact of apple and tender fruit farming, the creation of a carbon calculator to mitigate carbon and greenhouse gas emissions, and the development of superior, resilient fruit varieties. These initiatives are crucial for adapting to the changing climate conditions.
The investment is a component of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, announced by Niagara Centre MP Vance Badeway. According to a press release from May 10, Badeway highlighted that these improvements in tender fruit resiliency are advantageous for Ontario producers.
Phil Tregunno, chair of the Ontario Tender Fruit Growers, emphasized the role of expanded domestic production in bolstering the economic sustainability of the agriculture sector, appreciating the government's commitment to innovation within the domestic tree fruit industry. Sarah Marshall, manager of the Ontario Tender Fruit Growers, mentioned in a follow-up interview that the funding was received in late 2023 and projects are commencing this spring, focusing on various aspects including new variety development specifically tailored to combat climate change impacts. Lawrence MacAulay, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food, acknowledged the challenges of changing weather patterns, stating the project's goal to maintain competitiveness while reducing the sector's carbon footprint.
Source: farmtario.com