Description Have you noticed changes in farmland area?
Researchers in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development are looking to share the results of a recent study measuring farmland loss in Ontario with young farmers at the University of Guelph. This research, led by Dr. Wayne Caldwell, has measured the amount of prime agricultural land redesignated for alternative purposes from 2000 to 2014 for over 10 counties and regions within the Greater Golden Golden Horseshoe. More information on this research project can be found here:
http://waynecaldwell.ca/Projects/measuringfarmlandavailability.html
Through this workshop, researchers will also engage with young farmers through an open discussion on causes and possible solutions, and how farmers are adjusting their practices to mitigate against the impacts of farmland loss and urban land uses. Small focus groups will be organized in the second half of this workshop for young farmers to share their ideas, insights and experiences with researchers. A brief agenda is provided below. Free pizza will be provided to all participants! Speakers University of Guelph - Sara Epp, PhD candidate and Emma Drake, MSc candidate will present research on farmland converted to non-agricultural uses from 2000 to 2014 in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Agenda 6:00 pm
- Introductions 6:15 pm - Research Presentation 6:45 pm - Focus Group Sessions 7:30 pm - Conclusions & Discussion