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The Rural Voice, 2000-05, Page 7Feedback Ontario Drainage Act has been used to improve our farms, roads and the economy of our province. Here in southwestern Ontario, as a result of miles of drains created through the Drainage Act, we have one of the most vibrant agricultural communities in North America. In the early 1970s, the provincial government set up the Select Committee ,on Drainage. This committee did an extensive study on problems in the drainage industry in Ontario. The Select Committee on Drainage, chaired by the Hon. Lorne Henderson of Lambton County presented the provincial legislature with a series of recommendations, most of which were inserted into our present Drainage Act. I find most of the concerns in the OMAFRA questionnaires were answered years ago in this report, which is still available in their offices. A review of the existing study would have saved everyone time and money. Studying this report you will find why the changes were made to the Drainage Act at that time. Although this study was completed nearly 30 years ago, their conclusions seem even more applicable today. The uncertainty of markets, the fluctuation of input costs, world trade agreements (or disagreements), make the reliability of well -drained land even more important. Higher land costs, floating bank rates and ever- changing bank policies, make the availability of township tile loans even more important. The township tile drain loan offers one of the few stabilities in agriculture today. Although the high eight per cent interest rate, combined with the banks' eagerness to again loan to farmers, has recently reduced the use of township tile loans, the need will always be there. A lower rate of perhaps four per cent, a longer term to 30 years, (approximate life of tile) and a higher cap to $50,000 (to reflect present costs) is a beneficial change your committee could consider. The township tile drain loan goes with the property, is collected as taxes and so is a very safe investment for everyone involved. Tractor & Combine Parts We're your New, Used Roman (Parts Specialists same day shipping Call us for all your Engine Overhaul nods ph. 1-800-372-7149 fax 1-800-372-7150 FAWC ETT Tractor Supply Ltd. www.fawcett.cc sales co fawcett.cc 2126 Road 120. St. Marys. O111. (519) 284-2379 • fax 284-4062 SPRING SALE RED SAVE UP TO x1,230° Save 51,230.00 on Model #523Dxi Prices Start at 175°°(month ; (12-3211 Lara Tractor) Toro' Wheel Norse' Lawn and Garden Tractors • Liquid cooled and diesel engines available • Power steering, cruise control optional • Snowthrower, tiller, dozer blade attachments available 5,i Garden Treem, with Tom exclusive Smart Tum' Toro Recycler lush Models Start at 139995 Toro's revolut unary new Personal Pace' Self -Propel System, allows you to mow as slow or at fast as vou like — it's up to sou — just walk and It goes. Choose a Finance Package! • No Payments, No Interest until October 20001• • 0% interest for 24 months** Toro Recycles Lawn Mowers • Personal Pace' models available • Patented Recycler mower technology • 10 year starting guarantee available • 2 or 5 year total coverage warranty ST. MARYS McIntosh P & L Perth Rd. #163 (519) 229-8210 DUNDALK Highland Supply 92 Main St. (519) 923-2240 \Wel 20010 FORDWICH OWEN SOUND Boyd's Farm Supply Kingwell Lawn 8 Power R.R. #1 (519) 335-3539 Hwy #70 (519) 376-8706 ELORA TEESWATER Deboer's Farm Equip. Cassidy Farm Macrunery Cty. Rd. #7 (519) 846-5388 1 Clinton St (519) 392-6402 TORO www.toro.eom • Sa.mp based on S2)Del juin vena •M (O' deck The ddbrence .tweee regular pnee and prmwnm pm< equate SI21000 •-r IAC. ,ee dealers la dewbprctwu may diaa hon, anginal nems 020110 T. Torn Camps, MAY 2000 3