The NFU is governed by a National Board of Directors composed of farmers from coast to coast. However, recognizing that farming looks different across the country, and staying true to the NFU’s roots in autonomous provincial unions, the organization is divided into seven regions; Ontario is Region 3. You can read more about the National organization here.
Each region is governed by its own Regional Council, a body of farmers elected by other members of the region, to speak on behalf of the NFU farming community. You can read more about the current members of Region 3 Council here.
NFU Local chapters are organised to represent the members from a particular geographic area within a region. Locals have their own governing bodies which represent the interests of the national and regional organizations, while at the same time responding to the specific desires, interests, and concerns of their constituents. You can find more information about your Local here.
NFU Structure - NFUOntario
12Feb’22
NFU Ontario
Structure
NFU Ontario
Commitment to Democracy
One of the fundamental principles of food sovereignty is empowering farmers and eaters to make important decisions about food & agriculture. The National Farmers Union is a proud grassroots democracy. We’re a farmer-led organization, which means we need farmers to fill leadership positions, write resolutions*, and set our policy agenda.
Local, Regional, and National boards are all responsible for organizing an Annual General Meeting (or “AGM”) of the members. At an AGM, elections for executive positions are held, organizational budgets are reviewed and approved, and members propose and discuss resolutions that have been prepared that may go on to inform NFU policy.
National Convention & AGM is generally held in November.
NFU-O (Region3) Convention & AGM is generally held at the end of Feb/early March.
Local AGMs are held throughout the winter/spring, generally starting in January and continuing into April.
*What’s a resolution? A “resolution” is basically a firm, formal decision to do or not to do something. A resolution begins when an NFU member identifies something they believe the NFU should address/take interest in. Resolutions are written and brought forward by members, and voted on at Local, Regional, and sometimes National levels (depending on the scope) and, it they are agreed upon by the majority, will inform NFU policy &