Great Lakes Grain has formally expressed its support for a Ministerial Zoning Order (MZO) to help protect the long-term operation of the Sarnia Grain Terminal, one of Ontario's most important grain export facilities.

As one of Ontario's largest grain marketing networks, Great Lakes Grain represents the interests of thousands of farmers and provides grain marketing services through 28 locations stretching from Windsor to Ottawa and north to Georgian Bay. Reliable access to export infrastructure is essential to ensuring farmers have strong market opportunities and efficient pathways to domestic and international customers.

A Key Gateway for Ontario Grain 

The Sarnia Grain Terminal is a cornerstone of Ontario's grain handling and transportation system, handling approximately 35% of the province's grain exports. With direct access to marine, rail, and truck transportation networks, the terminal provides a critical link between Ontario grain production and global markets. 

The facility also supports the importation and distribution of fertilizer and other crop inputs that are essential to agricultural production throughout southwestern Ontario. 

Supporting Strong and Competitive Markets

Access to efficient export infrastructure plays an important role in maintaining competitive grain markets for Ontario farmers. The Sarnia Grain Terminal provides valuable export capacity and helps create additional market opportunities for grain and oilseed producers across the province.

The terminal's connection to the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system enhances supply chain efficiency, reduces transportation bottlenecks, and helps ensure Ontario grain can move reliably to customers around the world. 

Protecting Critical Agricultural Infrastructure 

As development pressures continue to increase around existing industrial and agricultural sites, Great Lakes Grain supports proactive land-use planning measures that help protect critical infrastructure from incompatible development. 

Facilities such as the Sarnia Grain Terminal are long-established operating sites that play a vital role in Ontario's agri-food sector. Ensuring future development remains compatible with these operations helps preserve their ability to serve farmers, grain handlers, exporters, and rural communities for years to come. 

Investing in Ontario Agriculture's Future 

The Sarnia Grain Terminal is more than a local asset—it is an important part of the infrastructure that supports Ontario's grain industry and agricultural economy. 

Great Lakes Grain believes protecting strategic facilities like the Sarnia Grain Terminal is essential to maintaining market access, strengthening supply chain resilience, and supporting the long-term success of Ontario farmers.

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Matthew van Sintern Dick
General Manager
Great Lakes Grain