News & Notices
Year-to-year variations in weather can create water challenges – whether too much or too little – for many agricultural operators. The resources below from Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) and other organizations can help farms plan for and manage water availability.
• Webpages on Ontario.ca:
o Adverse Weather, Low Water and Irrigation - resources on water conservation, creating water storage, using irrigation systems, and adapting to extreme weather and water conditions
o Managing your water well in times of water shortage
• Publications in the Best Management Practices Series:
o Water Management
o Irrigation Management
o Water and Fertilizer Use for Greenhouse Floriculture Production
• Documents available on Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association’s website:
o Environmental Farm Plan Info sheet: Water Efficiency
o Low Water Conditions worksheet starting on page 27 in the Environmental Farm Plan - Emergency Plan
Ontario offers business risk management programs to support you when factors beyond your control affect your operation. For more information contact Agricorp.
Contingency planning is an important step in preparing for the future. OMAFA encourages farmers to develop water management contingency plans to ensure their operations are ready for a variety of conditions. Plans for dry periods can include:
• Estimating water needs for the operation, including livestock.
• Installing water meters to track usage.
• Monitoring livestock and poultry for heat stress; with management solutions ready.
• Identifying alternative water sources (e.g., water haulers or well drillers)
• Identifying alternative feed sources for livestock and poultry.
• Applying for a Permit to Take Water through the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (subject to rules and conditions).
• Conserving water by understanding crop needs, irrigation timing, and soil properties.
• Using cover crops and crop residue to retain soil moisture.
OMAFA works with other ministries, conservation authorities, and partners to help farmers manage water and prepare for dry periods. While we can’t control the weather, we can help plan for it.
For more information on managing the impacts of adverse weather on crops, livestock and farms visit the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness’ website, including Adverse weather on the farm.
Have questions about water planning? Contact OMAFA’s Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or ag.info.omafa@ontario.ca for more information.
