Ontario farmers looking for help amid record diesel costs

Ontario farmers are grappling with the soaring cost of diesel, which has reached record levels. This year has been particularly challenging for them as the price of diesel surged following the Iran war, which disrupted oil supplies and had repercussions worldwide. At the annual International Plowing Match and Rural Expo held in Walkerton, Ont., numerous farmers expressed their frustration towards the federal and provincial governments, feeling neglected and in need of assistance to reduce operational costs. Most farm equipment runs on diesel, making it a significant expense for farmers.

According to Natural Resources Canada data, the average cost of diesel across the country reached $2.75 per litre in mid-September, eclipsing the previous record of $2.25 per litre set in 2022. This spike in diesel prices occurred after Russia's invasion of Ukraine led to a global supply shortage. Premier Doug Ford announced that the province's $150-million risk management program will be expanded to $250 million in the coming year to provide support to farmers.