The agri-food system is an integrated and complex production chain beginning with primary agriculture through to food and beverage service. Ontario producers are committed to producing safe, quality food, in an environmentally responsible manner.

To assist producers with this challenge, Agricorp's Business Development Team works with producer groups to develop programs in food safety and the environment that link with established risk management programs.

To learn more about the innovative solutions Agricorp can offer your business, please call Agricorp toll free between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday at 1-888-247-4999 or email .

Ontario Apple Growers Project
Ontario Cattle, Hog and Horticulture Payment
Plum Pox Eradication Program

Ontario Apple Growers Project

Building on the Vitis vine management system, Agricorp is working with the Ontario Apple Growers to survey Ontario apple orchards using GPS technology. Attached to each apple block is the variety, age, spacing and other pertinent data. Agricorp and the Ontario Apple Growers will use this information to gain a greater understanding of the apple industry, to develop and enhance risk management programs, and to enhance apple-marketing initiatives in food safety, traceability, and the environment.

Ontario Cattle, Hog and Horticulture Payment

In December 2007, the provincial government announced $150 million to help cattle, hog, and horticulture producers. Of that total, $130 million will be directly delivered to eligible producers through the Ontario Cattle, Hog and Horticulture Payment (OCHHP). Producers are eligible for this one-time payment if they received a federal Cost of Production (COP) payment or Ontario Cost Recognition Top-up Payment, and had at least half of their sales as reported to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) come from any combination of cattle, hogs or horticulture in either 2005 or 2006. Payments will be based on individual producers' historical Allowable Net Sales.

For more information on the Ontario Cattle, Hog and Horticulture Payment, view the brochure in PDF format or call Agricorp at 1-877-838-5144.

Plum Pox Eradication Program

Agricorp is under contract with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) to support the federal and provincial governments' strategy to eradicate plum pox in Ontario (a virus affecting tender fruit trees). Agricorp also delivers financial assistance to commercial fruit growers and nursery operations, which have orchards or stock that have been affected by the virus. To date, affected growers have received over $13.5 million in asset loss assistance.