Whether we farm or not, agriculture intimately touches our lives. It affects not only the quality of our food and the cleanliness of our water but also the culture of our communities. Many of us choose to live in Woolwich Township because of its strong farming culture. The open fields, grazing animals, old stone houses and huge barns give us a feeling of being ‘at home’.

A strong farming community supports Woolwich. Over 11% of the Woolwich labour force farms ( the national average is 3%) plus many businesses and farm industries serve and depend on farmers for their business. Farming also adds to Woolwich’s local economy by attracting visitors to the communities’ restaurants, hotels, and stores. Visitors come from far and near to bask in the ‘farm glow’ of Woolwich.

According to 1996 national statistics, 541 farms exist in Woolwich with an average size of 147 acres. Farms here grow a little bit of everything but the most acres are dedicated to growing corn, grain, and alfalfa.

How can you support local farming?

• Consider paying more for all the planning, monitoring, cultivating, sweat, transportation, and hard work that went into each tomato or kilo of flour.
• Educate yourself about farm issues by reading The Farm Gate and other farming-focused publications and books.
• Preserve rich farmland for food-growing, not for business or housing developments.
• Get to know local farmers.
• Buy more produce from local growers.
• Respect the hard work and complexity of farming.
• Encourage young people to farm.
• Don't critisize farmers with your mouth full.

For More Information:

Waterloo Federation of Agriculture: Glen Martin 669-5520

Waterloo Rural Women: Heidi Wagner 648-2175

Woolwich Agricultural Society: 669-5351

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs: John Smith 1-800-265-8332

Woolwich Community Health Centre: Marg Hunsberger 664-3794 x237