As Drought Impacts Yields Ag Minister Reminds Farmers of AgriStability, AgriRecovery, and the Farmers Wellness Initiative
Farms.com recently chatted with Ontario Agriculture Minister Trevor Jones about the drought impacting many farmers in Eastern Ontario. Read the article: Corn and Soybean Crops Fall Short in 2025 Predicts Great Ontario Yield Tour.
The Ag Minister, who grew up on a small farm, met this summer with farmers on their farms from Thunder Bay to Timmins. He says he has seen himself where drought has affected crops, especially corn and hay, soybeans, and wheat.
Minister Jones described the stark contrast in crop conditions across Ontario, from the lush fields of Southwestern Ontario to the drought-stricken counties in the east, including Durham, Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Hastings, Lennox, and Addington.
“It’s devastating and impactful,” Jones said. “The impacts will be serious.”
Jones pointed to a suite of financial tools available through AgriCorp, including AgriStability, Risk Management Program, Production Insurance, AgriInvest, as well as support from private lenders and ancillary insurance providers.
“Farmers know what the tools are. They know what is available, what they are subscribed for. That is something we've been doing for more than a generation or two. And we're really good at understanding those risks and mitigating them,” the Minister said in references to the insurance programs available to farmers caught in the drought situation.
“Farmers know what programs work best for what they grow,” he said. Click here for more information about these agriculture financial aids in Ontario.
Mental Wellness
But beyond financial support, Jones stressed the importance of mental wellness, especially during times of uncertainty. “There’s also mental health and wellness supports in place,” he said. “If you know a neighbor is suffering, if you haven’t seen them in their routine—at church, at the store, at the shop uptown—please call. Call someone. Call 988.”
The Farmers Wellness Initiative offers free, confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year. Importantly, the helpline is staffed by people who understand the unique challenges of farming. “The other end of that phone is staffed by someone that understands our situation unique to farmers,” emphasized Jones.
He described the resilience of farmers, even in challenging times, and the importance of community. “There’s no reason why anyone should feel alone in a group of farmers,” he said. “Just check on your friends, check on your family.”
Despite the challenges, Jones remains optimistic, citing the cyclical nature of farming. “Three or four years of bad times, you’re almost supported by that one exceptional year,” he said. “You pay off bills, invest in equipment, streamline processes, and go again.”
Click here for more information about the Farmers Wellness Initiative.