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Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario

Ministry
Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
URL
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/research/ario/institute.htm
Address
2ND FLOOR NW,, 1 STONE ROAD WEST,
GUELPH
N1G4Y2
Phone
(519) 826-4199
Fax
(519) 826-4211
Background
Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario Act, RSO 1990, C. A.13, S. 2 (opens a new window)
Function

The role of the ARIO includes to: (1) inquire into programs of research in respect of agriculture, veterinary medicine and household science; (2) select and recommend areas of research for the betterment of agriculture, veterinary medicine and household science; and (3) stimulate interest in research as a means of developing a high degree of efficiency in the production and marketing of agricultural products in Ontario. In general, ARIO provides strategic advice to the Minister regarding the direction of Ministry funded research programs.

Membership

The Minister appoints not more than fifteen members and appoints a chair and vice-chair from among the members.

Qualifications

Candidates should have knowledge of the agri-food sector, agri-tech and innovation, and research development.  Strategic thinking, communication skills, and ability to positively influence stakeholders are considered assets.

Term

Members are appointed for a term of up to 3 years and are eligible for reappointment.

Meetings
Members meet as needed, up to five to six times per year. Meetings are held at Guelph and other locations around the province.
Remuneration

Appointees are remunerated according to Schedule A, Level 2 of the Agencies and Appointments Directive.

Appointments & Vacancies

No. Position Member Term Location
1. Chair (Part-Time) LORNE HEPWORTH
18-Jan-2022 - 17-Jan-2025
london
2. Vice-Chair (Part-Time) ROSE MARIE GAGE
09-Mar-2024 - 08-Mar-2027
cumberland
3. Member (Part-Time) DENISE HOCKADAY
08-Jul-2021 - 07-Jul-2024
breslau
4. Member (Part-Time) EVERT VELDHUIZEN
02-Jan-2022 - 01-Jan-2025
woodstock
5. Member (Part-Time) GORD SURGEONER
13-Mar-2022 - 12-Mar-2025
fergus
6. Member (Part-Time) DAVID JENKINS
30-Nov-2023 - 29-Nov-2026
belmont
7. Member (Part-Time) DAVID MCINNES
30-Nov-2023 - 29-Nov-2026
ottawa
8. Member (Part-Time) NEVIN MCDOUGALL
30-Nov-2023 - 29-Nov-2026
london
9. Member (Part-Time) YOUBIN ZHENG
21-Jan-2024 - 20-Jan-2027
guelph
10. Member (Part-Time) JENNIFER DOELMAN
08-Mar-2024 - 07-Mar-2027
douglas