ONTARIO—The Ontario government is providing more than $5 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to 25 agriculture, aquaculture and food processing projects in Northeastern Ontario, including two businesses on Manitoulin Island.
“Our government recognizes the importance and significance of local food sources for personal well-being and economic growth,” said Greg Rickford, minister of northern development, mines, natural resources and forestry (NDMNRF). “We are providing northerners access to healthy food options and cultivating business development, diversification and prosperity in the food industry across the Northeast.”
Among the projects receiving NOHFC funding include $754,775 to Manitoulin Trout Farms Inc., located in Little Current, to purchase new cages and nets. Funding of $250,744 is being provided to Oshadenah Holsteins, a dairy farm located in Tehkummah, to purchase equipment, build a new barn, renovate its existing barn and construct a manure storage pit.
Alex Anstice, vice-president of Oshadenah Holsteins said, “the new dairy housing at Oshadenah Holsteins has incorporated technology and equipment that allows for more efficient, productive care of the cows. Animal health and welfare is always a top priority and with the new system, there is great satisfaction in seeing the bar being raised for these goals. We greatly appreciate the support of the Ontario government for our operation and for all agriculture in Northern Ontario.”
“Our government is committed to supporting a robust agri-food sector in Northern Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs. “That’s why we are making important investments to help these regions innovate and overcome the barriers for growth. These investments further strengthen the economic potential of the North where there is great opportunity to build our sector, and continue to provide safe, quality food made right here in Ontario.”
