The County of Brant celebrated Canadian Agriculture Day on Tuesday, February 22.
The County of Brant is pleased to support the Agriculture industry in Brant through a number of ongoing initiatives.
“Agriculture has a long history as an economic driver in the County of Brant,” said Russell Press, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the County of Brant. “We are committed to supporting our local farmers and are pleased to work closely with our local Agricultural associations.”
This support includes recent changes implemented by the Planning Division to the County of Brant’s Zoning By-Law for On-Farm Diversified uses. These changes allow eligible farming operations to diversify the activities on their farms to create additional revenue streams.
As well, the Economic Development and Tourism division recently launched the County of Brant Farm and Market guide, accompanying “Brant Farms for All” branded signage, and a Google mapping tool to promote direct purchases from Brant farms and Agri-tourism activities.
“Agriculture is a key sector in the County of Brant,” said Press. “We currently have 712 farm operations with a combined local work force of 1,223 employees.”
The County of Brant has also been involved in the creation of Conestoga College’s Agriculture Equipment Operator program. The 16-week program offers practical experience and is complimented with computer applications, safety and welding courses. By the end of the program, students will be well prepared for success as they enter employment in the Agriculture sector as a qualified Agri-Equipment Operator.
The County recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Brant Rural Water Quality program, administered in partnership with the Grand River Conservation Authority. This program provides financial assistance to qualified landowners in the County of Brant to share the cost of selected best management practices that improve and protect ground and surface water quality. In 2021, 56 projects were completed by County of Brant landowners and to date over 400,000 trees have been planted.
Finally, the County of Brant is proud to host the 14th Annual Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum this fall to highlight Agriculture in the County of Brant to over 100 delegates from across the province.
For more information on Agriculture in the County of Brant and the ongoing initiatives, please visit www.brant.ca/Agriculture.
