Workshop Event! FARMLAND: Using it, Losing it & Protecting it

Thursday, February 1, 2018 - 10:00am to Friday, February 2, 2018 - 9:55am

This farmer-focused session will explore recently developed information on farmland in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, but with a specific focus on east central Ontario. Planners and local decision-makers are also welcome.

Time will be set aside for an open discussion around causes and possible solutions, and how farmers can engage in the process.

Refreshments and lunch will be provided. Lunch is sponsored by Durham Region Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

Speakers:

University of Guelph: Wayne Caldwell, Professor and Sara Epp, PhD candidate, will present research on farmland converted to non-agricultural uses from 2000 to 2014 in the region

Farms at Work: Pat Learmonth, Director, will illustrate trends in the use of farmland in east central Ontario over the past 40 years.

Ontario Farmland Trust: Kathryn Enders, Executive Director, will focus on using Farmland Easement Agreements as a tool to permanently protect farmland in Ontario.

OMAFRA: Arthur Churchyard and Carolyn Puterbough will provide an update on the Agricultural Systems Mapping for the Greater Golden Horseshoe and what it will mean for planning in the future.