North Durham councils endorse new approach to support on-farm diversification

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

NORTH DURHAM: The North Durham Enabling Agriculture-Related and On-Farm Diversified Uses project has taken another step forward, with councils in Brock, Scugog, and Uxbridge endorsing the study’s final recommendations.

The changes are designed to give farmers more opportunities to diversify and expand their operations, while ensuring farmland remains protected. Recommendations include: clearer and more consistent land use policies, greater flexibility for diversification, and a more streamlined application process.

Examples of agriculture-related uses include: farmers’ markets, primarily selling locally grown products; cideries, using local apples; or farm equipment repair shops. On-farm diversified uses might include: agri-tourism activities, like corn mazes or seasonal events; home-based businesses, such as bookkeeping or hairstyling; or cafés and food stores.

“This has been a collaborative effort, to make it easier for farmers to adapt and grow their businesses,” said Lori Talling, Acting Manager of Agriculture & Rural Economic Development, at Invest Durham. “By creating a consistent framework across North Durham and reducing barriers, we’re helping to strengthen our agricultural economy for the long term.”

The recommendations, developed with support from WSP Canada Inc., call for updates to official plans, zoning by-laws, and site plan control by-laws in all three townships. They also suggest creating a standardized pre-application process, aligning development fees between municipalities, and offering an application toolkit to guide farmers through the process.

Brock Township Mayor, Mike Jubb welcomed the move, saying it will “provide the clarity and consistency our farmers and rural business owners have been asking for. Agriculture is the backbone of our community, and this gives them more tools to succeed while keeping our farmland productive.”

Scugog Mayor, Wilma Wotten agreed, noting the recommendations balance growth with preservation. “Our farmers are innovative and resilient,” she said. “This framework gives them the flexibility to explore new opportunities, from value-added products to tourism, while still safeguarding the land for future generations.”

The Region of Durham, in partnership with the townships, also plans to launch an education and awareness program, to inform the public about the changes as they are implemented.

The study was informed by consultation with farmers, business owners, township planners, provincial ministries, and community members, with broad agreement over supporting diversified farm businesses as key to the region’s long-term agricultural viability.