8 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | December 2023 Beyond the Barn GOV. INVESTS IN ONT. FARMER MENTAL HEALTH The provincial and federal governments are investing in mental health support for Ontario producers. The Ontario and Canadian governments will contribute $8 million in support through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The Sustainable CAP is a $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the agriculture industry. This investment will allow the Farmer Wellness Initiative, the In the Know program and the Guardian Network to continue offering their services, provided through the Canadian Mental Health Association, to producers who require them. “A life in agriculture is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, but it also comes with unique stressors and challenges,” said OMAFRA’s Lisa Thompson in a recent release. “This investment will ensure the right resources are in place to support Ontario’s hard-working agriculture community when and where they need it.” A portion of the investment will fund a promotional initiative named Sowing the Seeds of Wellness. The program will use funding over the next two years to educate producers about the supports that are available to address the unique challenges they experience. The funding will also be available for organizations to produce educational materials, bring in speakers, and develop other promotional activities related to mental health. Camille Quenneville, CEO of CMHA Ontario, said that “this investment will go a long way to raise awareness, address stigma and provide essential mental health supports for farmers in their local communities. We’re grateful for the opportunity to continue creating a hub for mental health within the province.” BF According to data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), sales of 4WD tractors increased drastically at the end of Q3 while 2WD units and combines lagged behind. “With the technology in today’s equipment, it’s no surprise to see the 4WD segment continuing to grow as farmers look to increase their yields,” AEM senior vice president Curt Blades said in a recent release. “This segment has been strong all year, as farmers are continuing to invest in productivity gains for their operations.” This trend was consistent across North America. Wrapping up Q3 in September, Canada’s 4WD sales were up more than 91 per cent over last year. The U.S. finished with 113 per cent growth. AEM’s Canada Ag Tractor and Combine Report notes that 88 4WD tractors were sold across the country this year. Last year the total was 46 over the same period. Though September was notable, sales have been strong through 2023 for 4WD tractors. Year-to-date, 653 tractors have been sold. This is a 22.5 per cent increase over 2022’s 533. While the 4WD market appears to be healthy according to AEM’s report, Canada’s overall sales are down by 14.1 per cent year-over-year. The 2WD tractors were down in Canada by 15.8 per cent in September, with 2,129 units sold versus 2022’s 2,529. Year-over-year, the sector continues to lag 15 per cent behind last year. By this time last year, 22,492 units had been sold, compared to 19,320 this year. The U.S. 2WD sales were lagging as well, with September falling by 5.7 per cent and year-over-year sales behind by 8.7 per cent. Canadian combine sales dropped 37.3 per cent in September, with 183 units sold against last year’s 292. Despite a slower month, year-over-year sales for combines remain healthy with a 16.5 per cent increase over last year. BF - Leslie Stewart Emily Croft photo STRONG 4WD TRACTOR SALES END Q3
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