Every industry needs effective licensing and training to ensure customers receive high-quality service.
On this episode of Talking Tile, host Bernard Tobin is joined by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) drainage program coordinator Tim Brook for a look at the rules, regulations and training programs that drive Ontario farm drainage service delivery.
Brook notes that the Agricultural Tile Drainage Installation Act was put in place in 1972 to help ensure that drainage systems were designed and installed properly to provide the drainage farmers needed for their crop production systems.
OMAFRA is responsible for the Act and issues a series of licenses, including business, machine and individual operator licenses. Brook adds that OMAFRA also offers a range of drainage courses at Ridgetown College that are required for some operators and provide the training needed to ensure the quality of drainage work delivered in the province.
In the video, Brooks outlines that different classes of license available and the requirements contractors must complete to earn the designation. OMAFRA also maintains a website that provides a geographical listing of drainage contractors in the province and their contact information. Brook notes that licenses are renewed annually and he encourages farmers to ask contractors if they are licensed when they make initial contact.
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Tobin is also joined by Jeremy Reaume who farms with his family in Comber, Ont., and also operates Reaume Drainage. He offers a unique perspective on why licensing is important for both farmers and contractors.
Reaume says licensing sets a standard for quality of work and identifies contractors who are qualified to do the work. It also protects farmers and moves the industry forward by ensuring contractors become more efficient with the adoption of technology and innovation.
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