Erie Innovation and Commercialization (EIC)is looking for farmers who are interested in being part of one of Ontario’s newest crops: hazelnuts.
Varieties have been identified that will grow well in Ontario’s climate and the emerging sector is now seeking farmers who are willing to start planting some of these trees.
“We have an identified market potential in Ontario for hazelnuts that’s equivalent to about 10,000 hectares of trees,” says John Kelly, vice president of EIC, an initiative of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association.
“Hazelnuts can be grown anywhere in Ontario that apples are, and the revenue potential for this crop is significant.”
It can take four years for hazelnut trees to start bearing fruit and seven years before they hit full production. By then, however, the potential net return is estimated at $2,000 per acre.
Brantford’s Ferrero Inc., which manufactures Nutella and Ferrero Rocher chocolates, currently imports its hazelnut supply but is very interested in accessing a stable, locally grown source. Anyone interested in planting hazelnuts or learning more should contact EIC at 519-426-7913.
Project funding is provided in part by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program. In Ontario, this program is delivered by the Agricultural Adaptation Council.
For more information visit www.erieinnovation.com.
