Search
Better Farming OntarioBetter PorkBetter Farming Prairies

Better Farming Ontario Featured Articles

Better Farming Ontario magazine is published 11 times per year. After each edition is published, we share featured articles online.


Study gauges certified seed's impact on Ontario's economy

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

by SUSAN MANN

Ontario’s certified seed business continues to have a big financial impact of close to $1 billion in the provincial economy, concludes a study by the George Morris Centre.

Funded by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association, the study also found that the industry employs almost 15,000 people. Their wages and salaries are estimated at slightly more than $430 million, and that generates taxes of about $21 million.

The report, called Ontario Pedigreed Seed Industry Economic Impact Study: An Update, is a followup to a 2002 analysis of the industry.

Dale Connell, president of the Ontario Seed Growers’ Association, says he wasn’t surprised by the dollar value of the industry’s economic impact but was amazed at the number of jobs the industry generates.

The study is important so the industry understands its impact on the provincial economy, he says.

About 195,000 acres of Ontario farmland was used for inspected seed production in 2012, and that generated certified seed revenues of more than $462 million and contributed an estimated $648 million to Ontario’s GDP.

“The 2013 study estimates economic values of the seed industry on a basis that extends beyond the farm gate to reflect its fundamental role as a support industry for crop production,” the Soil and Crop Association’s press release says. The 2002 study, by way of contrast, used a survey of farm gate sales to estimate the economic value of the seed industry.

Connell says it’s important for farmers to use certified seeds because when they do they are putting money back into research and development for new crop varieties and “you’re updating genetics so crops are resistant to diseases.”

The study was done by Al Mussell, senior research associate with the George Morris Centre and Irena Rajcan, research analyst. BF

Current Issue

November 2024

Better Farming Magazine

Farms.com Breaking News

University of Guelph looking for new OAC Dean

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

A position has opened at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College (OAC). The OAC is looking for a new Dean to lead the school into the future. The ideal candidate is “a visionary leader who shares its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, and who... Read this article online

Women Agriculture Leaders Embrace Innovation and Growth

Monday, November 11, 2024

The future of agriculture depends on diverse leadership that can drive innovation and address the sector's evolving challenges. Women are already at the forefront of this transformation, leading advancements in agtech, sustainable farming practices, and agribusiness. A recent article by Dr.... Read this article online

Lift heavy equipment with ease - TG Equipment Jack

Sunday, November 10, 2024

The TG Equipment Jack is a heavy-duty lifting device designed for large high clearance sprayers. This Cool Tools’ innovative design ensures secure and stable lifting of heavy equipment, making it an essential tool for repairs and tire changes. Key Features: Unwavering Stability: Built with... Read this article online

Ontario’s Best in Agri-Food Excellence 2024

Thursday, November 7, 2024

The Government of Ontario is celebrating the achievements of outstanding contributors in the agriculture and food industry through the 2024 Excellence in Agriculture Awards. This year’s awards recognize 13 winners and 16 honorable mentions in 11 categories, reflecting the innovative spirit... Read this article online

BF logo

It's farming. And it's better.

 

a Farms.com Company

Subscriptions

Subscriber inquiries, change of address, or USA and international orders, please email: subscriptions@betterfarming.com or call 888-248-4893 x 281.


Article Ideas & Media Releases

Have a story idea or media release? If you want coverage of an ag issue, trend, or company news, please email us.

Follow us on Social Media

 

Sign up to a Farms.com Newsletter

 

DisclaimerPrivacy Policy2024 ©AgMedia Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Back To Top