ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER FROM THE CEO’S DESK 4 From the CEO's desk Through its strategic objectives of advocacy and public trust, research and knowledge transfer, market protection and growth, and strong governance and operations, the organization continues to serve as a trusted voice for Ontario grain farmers. I hope you’ve enjoyed reflecting on some of the issues, achievements, and stories we’ve shared from the past 15 years in Ontario Grain Farmer magazine throughout the year. Since Grain Farmers of Ontario's inception, our industry has weathered its share of challenges and successes — and this year was no exception. Across the province, weather variability brought significant impacts, with some regions experiencing notable losses. Global markets, shaped by tariffs, trade disputes, and armed conflicts, have reached new levels of instability, creating uncertainty for farmers selling Ontariogrown barley, corn, soybeans, oats, and wheat. Despite these challenges, 2025 also brought important successes. The provincial government’s $100 million increase to the Risk Management Program provides stronger support for farmers facing tough growing conditions. We’ve also expanded our market development efforts, collaborating with partners across the value chain and with both provincial and federal governments to strengthen access to global markets and advocate for fair, open trade. Recently, I travelled to Mexico with Jeff Harrison, chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario, and the provincial and federal ministers of agriculture. We met with Mexican grain importers and end-users and participated in the Tri-National Agricultural Accord, which brought together senior agricultural officials from Canada, Mexico, and the United States to discuss trade and shared priorities — including preparations for the 2026 review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. That trip was a powerful reminder of the work that happens behind the scenes to support Canadian farmers and agribusinesses. Across the globe, Canadian embassy staff advocate for our industry every day. They help us make connections to our markets around the world and keep our Canadian reputation strong. As we close 2025 and look ahead to 2026, Grain Farmers of Ontario continues to invest in market development and relationship-building with value-chain partners, with additional trade missions planned to countries such as Japan, China, and Taiwan, in partnership with Soy Canada and Mexico with Cereals Canada. We are seeing growing interest in Ontario grain from countries around the world and we all gain by pursuing new buyers. January also marks the Annual District Meetings for each of Grain Farmers of Ontario’s 15 districts. I hope to see many of you at your local meeting — to learn more about our work on your behalf, engage in discussion, and vote on resolutions, and local delegates and directors. The schedule can be found on page 18. On behalf of everyone at Grain Farmers of Ontario, I wish you Happy Holidays and all the best for a safe, healthy, and joyous New Year. • Crosby Devitt, CEO, Grain Farmers of Ontario As the calendar turns to December, Grain Farmers of Ontario concludes its milestone 15th year. Building on the foundation of its three founding organizations — the Ontario Wheat Producers’ Marketing Board, Ontario Corn Producers’ Association, and Ontario Soybean Growers — Grain Farmers of Ontario has grown into an industry-leading organization that delivers real value to its 28,000 farmer-members.
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