The Ontario government is investing $9.5 million over the next three years to help improve soil data mapping and soil evaluation and monitoring. Soil data and interpretive maps support on‐farm decision‐making, enabling farmers to innovate and use technology to improve their long‐term viability so that they can remain competitive in the global market.

“This funding will allow farmers, researchers and others to access critical data to help understand and adapt to meet the needs of soil management and health protocols provincewide,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).

The province’s soil maps and information will be updated as part of its Soil Resource Inventory (SRI) mandate.

It will also build the Ontario Agricultural Soil Information System (OASIS). This data and information system will house, manage, and analyze soil data critical to support farming operations.

“Our government is taking a responsible and targeted approach to support farmers, people and businesses today while laying a strong foundation for future generations,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “This investment is part of our government’s plan to strengthen our agri-food sector so that more local food can be grown here in Ontario.”

By 2032, Ontario’s goal is to increase: the consumption of food grown and prepared in Ontario by 30 per cent, and Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturing GDP by 10 per cent.

Source:  Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs May 10, 2023 news release