New Diesel Mandate Creates Opportunities for Ontario Farmers

Apr 03, 2014

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

The Ontario government announced the introduction of a new Greener Diesel Mandate on Thursday, which is receiving high praise from farm groups like Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO).

Soybean growers stand to benefit from the new mandate, which will require a two percent blend in biodiesel, and a four percent inclusion by 2017.

GFO, the province’s largest commodity organization representing Ontario’s 28,000 corn, soybean and wheat growers predicts that the mandate will create a potential market for about 68,000 tonnes of soybeans.

The new rules went into effect April 1st.

“The creation of an Ontario Greener Diesel mandate will reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated by the transportation sector and will help build a market for made-in-Ontario soy biodiesel,” Henry Van Ankum, Chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario said in a release.

According to a government release, by 2017, the province aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 600,000 tonnes a year, which is equivalent to taking approximately 140,000 cars off the road.

The mandate was also welcomed by the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association, which called it “fantastic news” for renewable fuel producers and farmers alike.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.