A call for Farmland Protection this Earth Day
Posted: April 21, 2023
Categories: GoodFoodBites
To celebrate Earth Day this year (April 22nd), the Ontario Farmland Trust (OFT) is encouraging you to get in touch with your local MP, MPP, Mayor, and town councillors to let them know that you care about farmland and want to see it protected.
The rate of farmland loss in Ontario has nearly doubled since the 2016 Census of Agriculture. We are now losing an average of 319 acres every day.
“Farmers are stewards of the land, and they work hard to protect our valuable resources while producing fresh food for Ontarians,” OFT shares. “The potential to sequester carbon in our farmlands is huge, and could make a big difference for the future. The more farmland that is permanently protected, the more farmland we can put to work for the environment.”
You can also read more in the recent open letter OFT sent to Premier Doug Ford about the current state of Ontario’s agri-food system.
“A robust agricultural sector is the foundation that ensures resiliency of our communities,” writes OFT Executive Director Martin Straathof. “It plays a critical role in food supply, economies, and ecological services critical for adapting to impending climate challenges. Food production and a secure society are inextricably linked. However, we are at a critical moment where the future of our agricultural system is at stake.”
Learn more from the Ontario Farmland Trust on their blog. This Earth Day, let’s speak up for the protection of our farmland.