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.


Trespassers a problem for Simcoe farmers

Monday, November 3, 2014

Farm trespassing is more than just a nuisance; those who wander onto a farm can cause damage to crops and property, disturb livestock and even compromise biosecurity. Yet when it comes to punishing offenders, the laws don't have many teeth.

So says Keith Currie, vice-president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). In an opinion piece for the Barrie Examiner, he points out there is no minimum fine for trespassers on Ontario farms and "a poor process for reimbursing farmers for damages caused by unwanted visitors." The OFA wants to see a minimum fine of $500 and an increase in damage awards from $1,000 to a maximum of $25,000 (the same ceiling as Small Claims Court).  

Currie says the OFA has been working with government to change the Trespass to Property Act since 2005.

Arguably the most destructive offenders are ATVs, which can tear up a field in short order. Acting Sergeant Richard VanderBoom of Hamilton Police Service told The Sachem & Glanbrook Gazette that ATVs trespassing on farmers' fields has become a "chronic complaint." VanderBoom advises stopping trespassers and removing the keys to their vehicle if possible, but cautions against physical confrontation. Taking photos of the license plate also helps.

A different approach to solving the problem is the creation of more trails. Bruce Murphy, president of the Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicles, told CTV News in Barrie that a trail system similar to those used by snowmobilers would keep riders from straying onto fields. BF

Current Issue

June/July 2025

Better Farming Magazine

Farms.com Breaking News

Ontario Funds 28 Agri Food Research Projects

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Ontario has announced $5.4 million in funding for 28 innovative research projects at the University of Guelph, aiming to protect farmers, enhance the food supply chain, and foster environmental sustainability. This investment comes from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness... Read this article online

Boost Crop Yields with Smart Fertilization

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Soil testing is a valuable tool for managing crop nutrition, especially in Ontario where nutrient levels play a crucial role in crop yields. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFA), fertilizer recommendations based on soil test results can vary depending on... Read this article online

HJV Equipment Now Full-Line PTx Trimble Dealer

Thursday, July 17, 2025

HJV Equipment is thrilled to announce its designation as a full-line PTx Trimble dealer. This strategic move enhances the company’s capability to offer advanced precision agriculture technology, catering to the growing needs of modern farmers. As part of this expansion, HJV Equipment... Read this article online

Ontario Tender Fruit Season off to a Strong Start

Monday, July 14, 2025

Ontario's 2025 tender fruit and table grape season is off to a promising start reports the Ontario Tender Fruit and Fresh Grape Growers. While the weather may be too hot for some farmers, it has has been ideal for producing a sweet and juicy crop. A cooler-than-usual spring delayed the... 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 Policy2025 ©AgMedia Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Back To Top