CFFO Recognizes FCF and Cannabis Farming as realm of Agriculture
Faith-based agriculture leaders acknowledge cannabis farming
The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (CFFO) has formally recognized and accepted the Federation of Cannabis Farmers (FCF) as a commodity organization, acknowledging cannabis farming as an agricultural commodity within Ontario’s broader farm economy. This recognition reflects progress built on dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to agriculture as a profession rooted in stewardship and responsibility.
CFFO is an Accredited Farm Organization representing over 4,000 farm families in Ontario. CFFO members embrace a Christian perspective in farming practices and stewardship of land and livestock. As food producers, CFFO members support the growth and development of Ontario’s agri-food sector while advocating for policy that strengthens family farms and rural communities.
On November 12, 2025, the CFFO Executive Board reviewed FCF’s request for recognition. Following discussion, the Board passed a motion to issue a formal letter of support for FCF, affirming backing for cannabis farming as part of Ontario agriculture. The letter also reflected CFFO’s principled and transparent position, recognizing cannabis as agriculture and acknowledging medicinal cannabis, while expressing reservations regarding recreational use. This honest and respectful framing created space for continued learning and engagement.
Building respectful relationships across agriculture
Several meaningful connections emerged through this recognition:
- Formal recognition of cannabis farming as agriculture
- Written letter of support approved by the CFFO Executive Board
- Confirmation that cannabis revenue qualifies as agricultural income for FBR purposes
- Openness to learning about medicinal cannabis production and processing
- A foundation for respectful, values-based dialogue across agricultural sectors
Connecting with important leaders in agriculture
Meeting Tom Tavani, General Manager of CFFO, in person at the Canadian Greenhouse Conference marked an important relationship milestone. The friendly conversation is a reminder of the value of face-to-face engagement and shared interest in understanding modern agricultural systems.
The CFFO policy leadership also brings depth to this relationship. Paul Bootsma, Policy Advisor at CFFO, is a former Advanced Agriculture Leadership Program (AALP) alumnus, reflecting a strong connection to leadership development and agricultural policy capacity that benefits Ontario farm organizations.
Why this milestone matters
- It places cannabis farming within established agricultural dialogue in Ontario
- It reinforces the importance of respectful engagement and shared stewardship values
- It strengthens cross-commodity knowledge-transfer and relationship building in Ontario
- It supports long-term inclusion of cannabis farmers in farm policy conversations
This milestone also supports national objectives focused on unifying farm representation, strengthening cannabis farming as an agricultural commodity, and advancing long-term relationships within Canada’s agricultural policy framework.
Conclusion
I want to thank the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario for its thoughtful recognition and open engagement. Thank you to Tom Tavani, Paul Bootsma, Henk Vaarkamp, and the entire CFFO Board of Directors and staff. This acknowledgment reflects respect, transparency, and a shared commitment to stewardship and family farming. FCF values this relationship and looks forward to continued dialogue that supports farmers, agriculture, and long-term sector understanding.
