Agriculture leaders call for collaboration on policy and planning

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: Agriculture remains a driving force in Durham Region’s rural communities, and members of the Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee (DAAC) brought that message to council, during their annual update, on Monday, February 23rd.

Matt Somerville and Nicole Swain outlined the committee’s ongoing work and the major issues currently facing the agricultural sector, emphasizing DAAC’s role as a key advisory body to Durham Region, on matters affecting farming and rural life.

“DAAC exists to provide advice to the Region of Durham on agricultural matters and rural matters, as they relate to agriculture,” Mr. Somerville explained. “We’re there to make sure the agricultural perspective is part of the conversation when policies, strategies, and infrastructure projects are being discussed.”

The committee is made up of 17 members, including representatives from each local municipality, the Durham Region Federation of Agriculture, and Durham Farm Fresh, as well as members-at-large and three non-farming representatives. Matters, projects, and consultations can be referred to DAAC for information or feedback, ensuring potential impacts on agriculture are considered early in the decision-making process.

Ms. Swain highlighted several of the committee’s key activities in 2025. Among them are the Annual Farm Tour and agriculture-focused mental health training initiatives, designed to build awareness and resilience within the farming community.

The North Durham On-Farm Diversified Uses Project, a joint effort between Scugog, Brock, Uxbridge, and the Region’s Community Growth and Economic Development division, is another major undertaking. The project examines opportunities and challenges, related to diversified on-farm uses, an issue increasingly important to farm viability.

Other focus areas include: the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve: the Rural Clean Water Program, delivered by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority; and input on local planning matters, such as Official Plan reviews and amendments. Region-wide economic development initiatives and transportation concerns, including road design, culverts and goods movement, are also regularly reviewed by the committee.

“Transportation of goods is a big one,” Mr. Somerville noted. “When road designs or infrastructure changes don’t consider large farm equipment or transport trucks, it can create real challenges for producers.”

During the presentation, DAAC representatives outlined several major issues facing agriculture in the region, encompassing: the rising price of agricultural land; the need for increased food processing capacity; global market pressures, such as tariffs, planning policy changes, and the importance of agricultural education.

“On-farm diversified uses continue to be a significant topic,” Ms. Swain added. “Farmers are looking for ways to remain sustainable and competitive, and policy needs to reflect that reality, while protecting prime agricultural land.”

Mayor Wilma Wotten thanked the committee for its ongoing work and advocacy.

“Agriculture is foundational to our community and to Durham Region as a whole,” said Mayor Wotten. “Having a committee like DAAC, bring[ing] forward the real-world perspective of farmers and agricultural businesses is incredibly valuable. It helps ensure, when decisions are made, the impact on agriculture is understood and respected.”

DAAC also serves as a resource for municipalities and the Region, by gathering agricultural perspectives on new projects and strategies, ensuring local decisions consider impacts on farm businesses, and acting as a liaison between government and the agricultural community.

Examples of where DAAC provides feedback are: regional and local strategies or plans; economic development projects; agricultural land-use matters; and works department initiatives, such as roundabouts, intersections, ditching, and roadwork.

As Mr. Somerville told council, “We’re here to collaborate. Our goal is to work with municipalities and the Region so agriculture can continue to thrive.”

With farming continuing to change, amid economic and policy pressures, DAAC members stressed, proactive consultation and collaboration will remain essential in the years ahead.