The Canadian Federation of Independent Business says a new survey shows urgent government help is needed for farmers because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

CFIB vice president Marilyn Braun-Pollon says she has heard heart-breaking stories of farmers having to plow down crops, destroy produce or consider putting down livestock due to reduced processing capacity.

She says there must be expanded federal support for producers due to rising costs and uncertain markets.

“The livestock sector alone has seen mounting costs and losses for the past several weeks,” said Braun-Pollon. “The Cattleman’s Association has put a number of about half a billion dollar loss by June. The Pork Council has said that industry-wide losses could be north of $600 million. These are substantive losses.”