March 23, 2017 – Greenhouse vegetable farmers in Ontario were happy to learn of the new Greenhouse Competitiveness and Innovation Initiative announced earlier today. The new initiative will help farmers compete with neighbouring regions.
“Ontario’s greenhouse vegetable farmers thank Minister Leal and Premier Wynne for announcing this initiative,” says George Gilvesy, chair of Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG). “We look forward to working with the provincial government to ensure the Ontario greenhouse vegetable sector remains competitive into the future by strengthening investment in Ontario, creating local jobs and continuing to provide fresh, healthy produce for Ontarians year-round.”
The $19 million initiative promises to help Ontario greenhouse farmers continue to make a significant contribution toward meeting the Premier's growth challenge to Agri-food and ensures a secure food supply for Ontarians through the winter months. Sector growth will occur both through the expansion of acreage and by moving toward 12-month production, allowing Ontario growers to retain and expand their market share.
OGVG is responsible for licensing all growers, packers and marketers of Ontario greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Currently, OGVG has over 200 growers, representing nearly 2900 acres of high-tech hydroponic greenhouse production.
Source: Ontario GreenHouse Vegetable Growers