Changes to wildlife compensation program

By Mark Kunkel, Director, OFA

To The Haldimand Press

Updates to the Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program were announced on February 1, 2019 that should see improvements in the claims, appeal, and compensation process for Ontario livestock farmers. The changes will be implemented by the federal and provincial governments and are a result of consultations with farmers and agricultural industry leaders, including the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).

Wildlife predation is a serious threat to livestock. Coyotes, bears, wolves, and foxes are among the most common predators in Ontario that kill or maim livestock, leading to financial and animal health and disease problems. The challenges farmers face with predators and protecting livestock were compounded by their increasing frustration with the Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program.