Historically, agriculture was the way of life in Headwaters and continues to be seen as a a valued cultural component of the community.  In fact Headwaters includes some of the best agricultural land in the country.  Despite this, the viability of local farming
and protection of rural lands are threatened.

HIGHLIGHTS: 

• Headwaters includes some of the best agricultural land in the country.  Our close proximity to markets in nearby cities and the second largest North American food processing economy in the Greater Toronto Area makes the land a valued resource both for food and economic development.
• The number of farms in the Headwaters has continued to decrease dramatically, from 1,734 to 1,376 over the past two decades.  However, sales of main livestock and crop commodities in Headwaters totaled a still-significant $143.8 million in 2006.
• Private, commercial and public interests have different and often conflicting priorities and goals for land use and these have created tension within the community.
• There is a rising demand for local food and an increasing awareness that access to healthy local food sources is critical to community sustainability.
• What can we do to support local farmers in remaining viable?

“There is a living connection between rural communities of this country and cities of this country, but unfortunately the cities have internal gravity that calls all attention to them.” – Rex Murphy

 

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Photo courtesy of Sarah Godfrey - Click ConnectPhoto courtesy of Town of Orangeville

 

Photo courtesy of Martin McCreath

Photo courtesy of Credit Valley Conservation