Two “serious instances” in which people endangering crops for selfies on a canola farm in southern Ontario over the long Canada Day weekend have prompted police to warn the public of possible consequences of entering crop fields.
The OPP’s Dufferin Detachment says it has seen an increase in intrusion incidents into the county’s canola fields, and the most recent took place last weekend in Melancthon Township, more than 100 miles (100 miles) northwest of Toronto.
Police said people stopped their vehicles on Highway 10 and entered the canola fields to take photos.
In a press release issued Monday, police shared a photo showing cars lined up next to the highway while several people were seen taking photos in a canola field.
The plant is in full bloom at this time of year, with extensive fields of yellow, making it a summer attraction for those who want photos worthy of Instagram.
“While canola is beautiful at this time of year, it is a crop. It is a big part of herbal diets and a source of income for our farmers,” the OPP said.
“The potential damage to this crop is valued at $ 2,000 if only one acre is damaged. It will increase if there is a larger area affected.”
#DufferinOPP has reported two cases of admission to @MelancthonTwp this week. It is NOT a right to enter a field to get a perfect photo. Cut damage approx. = $ 2️⃣0️⃣0️⃣0️⃣Police phone calls = 0️⃣Call immediately at 1 1 812-818 if you see this. ^ jr pic.twitter.com/7t6k5L9v9p
– OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) July 4, 2022
Police reminded the public that under the Property Passage Act, crop fields are not required to have fences or signage to warn people not to enter. Therefore, entering a canola field on foot or in an all-terrain vehicle is still considered an infraction, even if there are no signs.
“If a person damages the crops, a responding police officer could consider a criminal charge of ailment,” the OPP said.
Police added that they will continue to monitor the situation, but called for help. The incidents last weekend were not immediately reported, which is why police were unable to respond in time.
Police urge anyone who sees a similar situation to call 1-888-310-1122 instantly.