FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 13, 2025
This morning, MPP Mike Schreiner and Haldimand-Norfolk independent MPP Bobbi Ann Brady were joined by representatives from the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and the National Farmers Union, Ontario to announce their intention to introduce legislation to protect Ontario’s farmland through the creation of a “Foodbelt”.
“Ontario loses the equivalent of nine family farms each week to urban sprawl, aggregate mining, and expensive highways like highway 413. We simply can’t afford to lose any more” said Schreiner. “In the face of global trade instability, we must tariff-proof our economy. That starts with protecting Ontario’s farmland to defend our food sovereignty, our food and farming economy and our future so we can feed ourselves.”
Schreiner highlighted that Ontario’s agriculture sector contributes over $50 billion to the provincial economy, and employs over 875,000 people – one in nine Ontarians.
“Farmland needs to be protected. For many reasons but mainly because we can’t make more land. Ontario loses nearly 320 acres of farmland each day,” said MPP Brady. “To feed ourselves we must cease and desist this constant subtraction of arable land. I’ve been loud and clear on this for years now.”
If passed, the joint bill from Schreiner and Brady will establish a task force of farmers, agricultural experts, and land-use planners to develop recommendations for a strong Foodbelt Protection Plan. The resulting report would address key priorities such as reducing land speculation, improving soil health and protecting and enhancing farmland that is used for a variety of purposes.
“Now is the time to protect our farmland, support our farmers, and grow more food right here at home,” Schreiner concluded. “Food security is national security – because without farms, there is no food, no future.”
Quotes
“OFA congratulates MPPs Mike Schreiner and Bobbi Ann Brady and appreciates their leadership on this Bill. The Bill recognizes that protecting farmland isn’t just about drawing lines on a map—it’s about keeping farms and farmers viable and rural communities strong. It reinforces the importance of protecting our food-producing capacity before it’s too late.”
Drew Spoelstra, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
“Farmland is a finite resource, and it is the most critical resource for a high standard of living. No farmland, no food. This bill is a great step towards ensuring the future well being of the people of Ontario.”
Max Hansgen, President, National Farmers Union of Ontario
“The Ontario Farmland Trust (OFT) welcomes the introduction of this bill and commends MPPs Mike Schreiner and Bobbi Ann Brady for their leadership in bringing forward this important legislation.
At a time when Ontario continues to lose hundreds of acres of farmland each day to non- agricultural development, we believe bold, systemic action is urgently needed. The establishment of a legislated Foodbelt represents a meaningful step toward recognizing farmland as an asset essential to our province’s long-term food security, economy, and resiliency.
These are aligned with the Ontario Farmland Trust’s mission to protect and preserve Ontario’s farmland and ensure that future generations of farmers have access to the land they need to grow food sustainably.
We look forward to contributing to the consultation process and working collaboratively with all stakeholders and levels of government to ensure the long-term viability of Ontario’s farmland.”
Martin Straathof, Executive Director, Ontario Farmland Trust
“CFFO is in general agreement with the intent of this bill and appreciates your efforts in putting this together. We look forward to continuing working together to protect our valuable resource of soils for food production.”
Paul Bootsma, Member Relations Manager, Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario