Local voices sought to shape the future of agriculture in Kawartha Lakes

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: As many tractors sit idle between seasons and winter planning takes shape around kitchen tables and barn offices, Kawartha Lakes is inviting the people behind the region’s food system to help shape what comes next.

A new Agriculture and Food Action Plan survey is now open, giving farmers, agri-businesses, food producers, and community members the opportunity to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas for the future of local agriculture.

The survey will inform a long-term Agriculture and Food Action Plan which will guide economic development priorities, investment, and initiatives, supporting farming, food production, processing, and distribution across Kawartha Lakes. Municipal staff say, broad participation is key to ensuring the plan reflects the day-to-day realities of the sector.

“This action plan is about listening to our community and building a strong, resilient agriculture and food sector for the future,” said Kelly Maloney, Economic Development Officer – Agriculture. “We want to hear from everyone connected to the system, from primary producers to processors, distributors, and the people who support and rely on local food.”

The launch of the survey also aligns with the International Year of the Woman Farmer, a global initiative recognizing the essential role women play in agriculture and food systems. In Kawartha Lakes, women are a growing and influential part of the farming community, with 505 female farm operators, representing 31.4 per cent of all local farm operators.

Municipal staff are encouraging female farmers, in particular, to take part, ensuring their experiences and priorities help shape future policies and programs.

“Women bring leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to stewardship,” Ms. Maloney said. “Their voices are critical to creating a plan which reflects the full picture of agriculture in Kawartha Lakes.”

Local producers say, the survey offers a valuable opportunity to be heard, at a time when the agriculture sector is facing both challenges and new opportunities.

“Every operation has its own story,” said Sarah McLean, a Kawartha Lakes farmer. “Having a chance to share what’s working, what’s not, and what support is really needed, can make a real difference for the future of farming here.”

The survey is open to a wide range of participants, including farm operators of all genders, agri-businesses and service providers, food processors and distributors, agricultural transporters and suppliers, food entrepreneurs, and residents with an interest in local food and agriculture.

Feedback, gathered through the survey, will help identify actions which strengthen the sector, support sustainable growth, and enhance the long-term viability of agriculture and food in Kawartha Lakes.

“This is about planning for the future together,” Ms. Maloney added. “The more voices we hear from now, the stronger and more meaningful this action plan will be.”

The Agriculture and Food Action Plan Survey is available through the JumpIn Kawartha Lakes engagement platform, at jumpinkawarthalakes.ca/agriculturefoodactionplan, until February 6th.