Two “serious incidents” involving people endangering crops to take selfies at a canola farm in southern Ontario over the Canada Day long weekend have prompted police to warn the public about the potential consequences of trespassing in crop fields.
The OPP’s Dufferin detachment says it has seen an increase in trespassing incidents in canola fields in the county, with the latest occurring last weekend in Melancthon Township, located more than 100 kilometers northwest of Toronto.
Police said people stopped their vehicles on the side of the 10 Freeway and entered the canola fields to take pictures.
In a news release on Monday, police shared a photo showing cars lined up on the side of the highway, while several people were seen taking photos in a canola field.
The plant is in full bloom at this time of year, turning vast fields yellow, making it a summer attraction for some who want Instagram-worthy photos.
“Although canola is beautiful at this time of year, it is a crop. It is a big part of plant-based diets and a source of income for our farmers,” OPP said.
“The potential damage to this crop is estimated at $2,000 if just one acre is damaged. It will increase if there is a larger affected area.
#DufferinOPP was notified of two cases of trespassing in @MelancthonTwp this week. It is NOT a right to enter a field to get a perfect photo. Crop Damage Approx = $2️⃣0️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Phone Calls to Police = 0️⃣ Please call 1 888 310-1122 immediately if you see this. ^jr pic.twitter.com/7t6k5L9v9p
— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) July 4, 2022
Police reminded the public that under the Trespassing Act, crop fields are not required to have fences or signs warning people not to trespass. So entering canola fields on foot or in an all-terrain vehicle is still considered an offence, even if there are no signs.
“If a person damages crops, the responsible police officer may lay a criminal charge of misdemeanor,” the OPP said.
Police added that they will continue to monitor the situation, but have asked for help. The incidents this past weekend were not immediately reported, which is why the police were unable to respond in time.
Police urge anyone who sees this situation to call 1-888-310-1122 immediately.
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