In This Issue

• FFCO's annual conference and speakers' program, April 9, 2026
• Webinar, March 4, 2026 - In celebration of International Year of the Woman Farmer
• FFCO Board of Directors nominations due March 20, 2026
• Last chance to nominate a Food & Farming Champion
• Breakfast on the Farm - Binbrook, June 13, 2026
• Last call to register for agricultural media training: March 17 or March 26, 2026
• Call for Breakfast on the Farm hosts for 2026 and beyond
• FFCO at Ottawa Valley Farm Show: March 10-12, 2026
• Webinar, March 26, 2026 - Tackling Misinformation: Tools for Evidence-Based Communication
• FarmFood360 at College Royal Open House, March 21 & 22, 2026
• Help us share the stories of Ontario's migrant workers
• Member accolades
• Silver member testimonial: Agri-Nutrient Solutions

FFCO's Annual Conference and Speakers' Program

Farm & Food Care Ontario’s (FFCO) Annual General Meeting and Annual Conference returns on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the GrandWay Events Centre in Elora.

This year’s theme, Farming in Focus: Real Stories, Real Impact, highlights the power of authentic agricultural storytelling to build public trust and strengthen the connection between farms and consumers.

The conference will feature a dynamic lineup of speakers shaping how agriculture is shared with the public, including keynote speaker, presented by FCC, Tyler Heppell (Potato Ty), a fifth-generation farmer and social media creator who will share how digital platforms can turn everyday farm life into engaging, educational content.

Attendees will also hear from the creators of the Canadian comedy series The Cows Come Home, who will explore how cinematic storytelling and humour can bring farming realities to life for wider audiences.



In the final panel, guests will hear directly from Ontario farmers who regularly open their gates to the public. Kevin Vallier, CEO of Agritourism Ontario will co-moderate a panel featuring Chris Hiemstra of Clovermead Adventure Farm, Korb Whale of Mapleton’s Organic Dairy Farm and John Zekveld of Zekveld’s Garden Market. They will lead a discussion on why high-quality storytelling and other agricultural education components are vital to the success of on-farm events and tours – and what they need from the industry to support their work. 

Highlights of the day will include:

• Taste of Ontario lunch presented by Ontario Mutuals
• Food & Farming Champion Award presentation
• Overview of FFCO Initiatives

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your digital presence, enhance on-farm experiences, or advocate more effectively for Ontario agriculture, this conference will offer practical tools and real-world insights to help you share your story with confidence.

Early bird registration is now open, with discounted rates available until March 27th.

FFCO webinar in celebration of International Year of the Woman Farmer

Her Stories, Our Food: Voices from Ontario Food and Farming 

Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. EST 

In recognition of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, Farm & Food Care Ontario is hosting a webinar focused on the women behind Ontario’s food and farming system. This engaging panel brings together women farmers and agricultural leaders to share their stories, day-to-day roles, and career journeys. Panelists will discuss innovation on the farm, challenges and opportunities, the value of community, and their perspectives on the future of farming, offering insight and encouragement for women and young people exploring agriculture and ag-adjacent careers.

FFCO Board of Director nominations

FFCO is now accepting nominations for six (6) Director positions:

• Two (2) Crop/Horticulture
• Two (2) Livestock
• Two (2) At-Large (general farm organizations and agribusiness members)

Crop/horticulture and livestock positions are designated for producer-based organizations.

Who can nominate or be nominated: Platinum, Gold, and Silver FFCO members in good standing.

Nomination limit: One nomination per voting member.

Nomination packages are available by email and must be submitted by March 20, 2026.

Elections will take place at the FFCO Annual General Meeting on April 9, 2026, at the GrandWay Event Centre, prior to the annual conference.

Interested in being nominated? Email kelly@farmfoodcare.org to request a nomination package or to learn more about the role.

Last chance to nominate a Food & Farming Champion for 2026

This is your final opportunity to submit a nomination for Farm & Food Care Ontario’s annual Champion Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals, organizations, or businesses that go above and beyond to connect consumers with agriculture, share accurate information, and strengthen public understanding of how food is grown and produced in Ontario.

Do you know someone who is making a meaningful impact in promoting Ontario agriculture and building trust in the food system? Now is the time to help shine a spotlight on their dedication and leadership.

Nominations close March 6, 2026.

Submit your nomination and help celebrate a true agri-food champion.

Breakfast on the Farm - Binbrook, June 13, 2026

We are pleased to announce the first Breakfast in the Farm location for 2026. The event will be hosted by the Spoelstra family, Roy-A-Lea Farms Ltd, on June 13, 2026, in Binbrook, Ontario. Roy-A-Lea Farms is a mixed farm operation with a family of passionate and progressive farmers whom are firm believers in doing what you love to make a living.

The farm is home to a milking herd of 60 Holstein cows with robotic feeding and milking technology and a herd of beef cattle. The farm also grows corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay on 1,900 acres. In addition, they raise Clydesdale horses and sell corn and soybean seeds to local growers. 



Breakfast on the Farm events showcase the diversity of agricultural commodities, careers and opportunities in modern farming and food production. Guests will enjoy interactive displays and exhibits highlighting food produced in Ontario. Visitors can also get up close with livestock displays, explore farm equipment, and have all their farming-related questions answered by farmers and industry experts.

To get involved and support this important outreach event, contact FFCO to explore partnership opportunities and help bring the story of Ontario agriculture to a wider audience.

Volunteer registration is now open, sign up today and be part of this event.

Last call to register for agricultural media training

Sharpen your media skills with Farm & Food Care Ontario

Farm & Food Care Ontario is hosting two full-day agricultural media training sessions in Guelph this spring: Tuesday, March 17 or Thursday, March 26, 2026.

This hands-on workshop is designed specifically for Ontario agriculture by experienced Ontario agriculture communication specialists. Using real-world scenarios from participants’ own agricultural sectors, you’ll learn practical strategies for effective media and public communication. The day includes two realistic interview simulations, giving you the confidence and tools to handle interviews, public speaking, and other engagement opportunities—from crafting your key messages to mastering interview techniques.

Cost: $500 per person (FFCO member rate) | $600 per person (non-member)

Includes coffee breaks, lunch, and workshop materials.

This training is ideal for board members and staff of farm organizations and agribusinesses, as well as primary producers who engage with the public through farm tours, municipal council meetings, or other events.

To register, email info@farmfoodcare.org and indicate which date you would prefer.

Call for Breakfast on the Farm hosts for 2026

Could your farm host Breakfast on the Farm in 2026?

Imagine welcoming thousands of guests to your farm and sharing the story of Ontario agriculture firsthand. Breakfast on the Farm is one of the province’s largest and most impactful on-farm outreach events, and your farm could be next.

The team at Farm & Food Care Ontario (FFCO) is continuing to seek host farms and agricultural societies for 2026 and 2027. This is your opportunity to showcase your operation, connect with consumers, and celebrate the incredible work of Ontario farmers.

FFCO manages the logistics and provides hands-on support every step of the way, working alongside you and a local volunteer committee to deliver a fun, engaging, and unforgettable event.

Ready to explore the opportunity? Reach out to the FFCO office to explore the role of a host and discuss your farm or organization. Call 519-837-1326, ext. 221, or email events@farmfoodcare.org. Applications are available for download and can be submitted directly to FFCO.



Applications close March 17, 2026.

FFCO at Ottawa Valley Farm Show: March 10-12

Visitors are invited to stop by booth 1000 at the Ottawa Valley Farm Show from March 10 to 12, 2026, to connect with the Farm & Food Care Ontario (FFCO) team.

FFCO staff will also be helping collect stories and memories ahead of the Ottawa Valley Farm Show’s centennial in 2027. Visitors are encouraged to record a favourite memory from their farm show experience and be part of this milestone celebration. The team will be onsite helping to capture the experiences of farmers, vendors, and visitors and celebrating the people, farms, and traditions that make the show a cornerstone of eastern Ontario agriculture.

At the booth, guests can also explore the FarmFood360 kiosk for an immersive look at modern agriculture, pick up newly designed 2026 t-shirts, and learn more about FFCO’s Faces Behind the Food initiative, which highlights the people and stories behind Ontario’s food and farming system.

FFCO staff and volunteers will be on-site to share resources, answer questions, and celebrate the incredible work of Ontario farmers.

Upcoming Webinar - Tackling Misinformation: Tools for Evidence-Based Communication

Tackling Misinformation: Tools for Evidence-Based Communication

The Food Truth Project

March 26 @12:00 p.m. EST

Today’s online food and nutrition space is crowded with viral wellness claims and confusing food safety narratives. This webinar explores how social media algorithms can amplify misinformation and why it matters for public health, consumer trust, and the future of our food system. Participants will learn to recognize common misinfluencer tactics, including fear-based messaging, the appeal-to-nature fallacy, and selective use of science, while gaining practical, evidence-based tools to assess questionable claims, respond with confidence, and support more informed conversations about food and nutrition science.

FarmFood360 at College Royal Open House

Farm & Food Care Ontario (FFCO) will be at the University of Guelph's University Centre building on March 21 and 22, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring the immersive FarmFood360 theatre-style kiosk. Through virtual reality, visitors can explore over 25 Ontario farms and food processing facilities in a fully interactive 360° experience, offering an up-close look at modern agriculture.

In addition to the VR experience, there will be hands-on activities, displays, and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages to explore. FFCO staff and volunteers will guide guests through the exhibits and share the story behind farming and food production.



With an expected crowd of 20,000 over the weekend, it promises to be an exciting and unforgettable event — we hope to see you there.

Help us share the stories of Ontario's migrant workers

Through the More than a Migrant Worker (MTAMW) project, we highlight the stories of seasonal workers, the individuals without whom Ontario’s fruit and vegetable sectors would not exist as they do today. MTAMW is a project of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA), with FFCO managing interviews and content development. We are seeking fruit and vegetable farm businesses with exceptional workers participating in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) who should be featured. Participants review and approve all content before it’s used so there’s no risk in participation.

If you are interested in assisting on this project, please contact info@farmfoodcare.org to learn more and get involved in sharing the stories behind Ontario’s food system.

Member accolades

Ron Shoup Honoured with PIC Award

Congratulations to Ron Shoup, recipient of the 2025 Ed McKinley Poultry Worker of the Year Award from the Poultry Industry Council (PIC).

As Vice President of Farm Operations with The Clark Companies, Shoup is recognized for his decades of leadership and lasting contributions to Ontario’s poultry industry.



Jason Leblond elected as President of Beef Farmers of Ontario

Congratulations to Jason Leblond on his new appointment as President of the Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO). Jason is also a past board member of FFCO and with wife Jenny have been long-time supporters of FFCO. They farm in Chisholm, Ontario.



Samantha Haverkamp reappointed to Farm Products Council of Canada

Samantha Haverkamp has been reappointed as a Member of the Farm Products Council of Canada for a three-year term beginning April 21, 2026.

A hatching egg producer near Vanessa, Ontario, Haverkamp currently serves as Chair of the Ontario Broiler Chicken Hatching Egg Producers' Association and sits on the Board of Directors for the Poultry Industry Council.



Ontario farmers support scholarships for children of Jamaican seasonal workers

Ontario fruit and vegetable growers are supporting a new scholarship program launched by the Government of Jamaica to benefit the children of workers participating in Canada’s Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP).



Backed by a $10,000 grant from the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA), the program will assist 10 students with high school expenses such as books, transportation, and accommodation. The initiative coincides with the 60th anniversary of SAWP in 2026.



Photo caption: From left: Dione Jennings (Permanent Secretary, Jamaica Ministry of Labour and Social Security); Pearnel Charles Jr. (Minister of Labour and Social Security); Benjamin Murray (Communications Advisor, Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association); Justine Bailey (Public Relations Manager); and Donovan Williams (Minister of State, Ministry of Labour and Social Security) at the scholarship announcement ceremony.

Bill George honoured by Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association

Niagara grape grower Bill George has been named the 2026 recipient of the Industry Award of Merit by the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA). George, a long-time agricultural leader, served as chair of OFVGA from 2019 to 2022 and as chair of the Grape Growers of Ontario from 2007 to 2016. The award recognizes his decades of leadership and service to Ontario’s fruit, vegetable, and wine sectors.



Photo caption: From L-R, OFVGA Executive Director Alison Robertson, OFVGA Chair Shawn Brenn, Bill George.

Mike Chromczak named Chair of OFVGA

Congratulations to Mike Chromczak on his new appointment as chair of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA). Mike is a owner-operator of M&J Chromczak Farms Inc. near Tillsonburg, growing asparagus, watermelon, and row crops. Chromczak also chairs the Asparagus Farmers of Ontario and co-chairs the Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition.



Congratulations to 2026 Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees

The Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame (OAHF) has announced its 2026 inductees. Congratulations to three long-time FFCO supporters named to the Hall of Fame. 

They include:

• The Honourable Robert Black (nominated by the Taylor family);
• Former EFO Board Chair Scott Graham (nominated by Egg Farmers of Ontario);
• Brian O’Connor, General Manager of EastGen (nominated by the EastGen Board of Directors).

The other inductees are Dr. Helen Fisher (Posthumous) and Percy Hodgetts (Posthumous).

Congratulations to the five new inductees, all being honoured for their industry leadership. The induction ceremony will be held Sunday, June 14 at the GrandWay Events Centre.

Veal Farmers of Ontario Appoint Patrick MacCarthy as Executive Director

The Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO) Board of Directors has appointed Patrick MacCarthy as Executive Director, effective April 1, 2026. MacCarthy brings extensive knowledge of Ontario’s veal and dairy calf sectors and succeeds Jennifer Haley, who is retiring after nearly 30 years of dedicated service.

The team at FFCO congratulates Patrick on his new role and thanks Jennifer for her decades of leadership and commitment to Ontario’s veal industry.

Above: Patrick MacCarthy, incoming Executive Director of VFO.

Below: Jennifer Haley, retiring Executive Director of VFO.

Silver member testimonial - Agri-Nutrient Solutions

Agri-Nutrient Solutions (ANS) is a family-run small business with roots in Southwestern Ontario. We are proud to support Farm & Food Care Ontario and its mission to build public trust in Ontario food and farming. Working closely with livestock producers across the country, we see firsthand the care, innovation, and responsibility that go into raising animals and producing safe, high-quality food. FFCO helps share those stories in a meaningful way with consumers who are increasingly removed from the farm.

At ANS, our work focuses on technologies that improve animal health, feed efficiency, and environmental sustainability. That mission aligns naturally with FFCO’s efforts to connect science, farming practices, and public understanding. ANS has participated in events such as Breakfast on the Farm and has worked to bring FarmFood360 to local fairs to help open doors for honest conversations and bridge the gap between rural and urban communities. One of our favourite events is the annual Harvest Gala, where we celebrate the local harvest.

Agriculture is built on relationships — between farmers, suppliers, and the families who rely on the food we produce. Being part of the FFCO community allows us to contribute to something bigger than our own business: a stronger, more transparent future for Ontario agriculture. We are grateful to stand alongside FFCO and share the amazing stories behind agriculture.

Megan Yantzi, President, Agri-Nutrient Solutions

Become a Member

Did you know?

• You, your farm or your business can become a member of FFCO
• Your support in membership makes FFCO's work possible
• Corporate members ($1800+) can access free training and workshops

Not a member yet? Learn why others have joined FFCO.