Too-low income? Too bad
Small farmers take another hit
BY Nathan Swinn
Last July, Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl proudly introduced the Canadian Farm Families Options program, with the stated goal of assisting low-income farmers and farm families. Through the initiative, farmers are eligible for a conditional income supplement of up to $25,000—but a gross income of $50,000 is necessary to qualify.
Despite the fact they’re the most in need of help, small farmers will not benefit from this feel-good program. As an Ontario farmer pulling in less than $50,000 a year, I see the Options program as clear evidence of the government’s disregard for independent farmers, and preference for corporate farming. More than half of Canadian farms gross less than $50,000—53 percent according to StatsCan. And 60 percent of small farms lose money, while those that do make money turn only a small profit. By disqualifying the bottom half of all earners from a “low-income” supplement, what does that say about the government’s commitment to helping small farmers?
Perhaps the ministry is unable to access Statistics Canada’s information—which is too bad, since farming small is about more than just people’s livelihoods. Organizations such as Local Flavour Plus, which promote sustainable agriculture in Ontario, are beginning to realize the value of maintaining a strong connection between local agriculture and urban consumers. The “get big or get out” philosophy flies in the face of a growing demand for organic food, local food and small sustainable farming operations with mandates that are not entirely profit-based.
I enjoy growing and selling food, in person, face to face, to appreciative customers. Customers are invariably curious about my sweet corn, asking why it tastes better than what’s available in the grocery chains. (Answer: the sugar in sweet corn begins to break down after being picked; my corn is picked fresh daily, by me, a fact I relate to most customers free of charge.)
But in our current food culture and agricultural system, my kind of farming is not always profitable or possible. The ministry could have introduced a program that rewards my skills and encourages me to continue growing food that can be enjoyed as soon as it’s picked. But instead, I’m left with little choice but to supplement my income through off-farm activities, or start thinking about leaving the life altogether, despite the many non-monetary rewards.
I imagine that many small farmers across Canada feel similarly ill-served by the Options program, and the obvious message it sends. It’s an unfortunate irony that all Canadians will eventually reap what the Agriculture Ministry sows.
