Dufferin Farm Tour celebrating 25 years of agri-tourism
Participants in this year’s Dufferin Farm Tour will have a chance to get up close with majestic Clydesdales, learn about Rideau Arcott sheep, explore a cattle and sheep farm, and visit a Holstein dairy farm that has been a staple of the community for generations.
Dufferin is home to over 700 farms, but often the connection between these farms and the food on our plate is lost. The tour provides an opportunity to share dialogue and see farming as it happens. When people learn how their food is grown and raised, they are more likely to think about buying local, supporting their local farmer and economy. Over its 25 years, thousands of people of all ages have passed through the farm gates.
The Dufferin Farm Tour was established in 1998 by a group of dedicated farmers who wanted to bring rural and townspeople together on the farm to hear firsthand the challenges of providing safe, nutritious food. Each year for one day in the fall, a differentgroup of farmers opens their doors to the public to showcase their farms. Families spend time talking with farmers, experiencing farm animals up close, asking questions, and watching demonstrations.
Agriculture is one of the largest economic contributors in Dufferin County and with its spin off industries, is one of the largest employers. Dufferin County’s top-five farm commodities are cattle and calves, dairy, potatoes, soybeans and corn.
The Dufferin Farm Tour is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, rain or shine. This is a self-guided tour. Pack up the family and follow a route on your own time. Stay as long as you want on each farm. There will be food and refreshments along the way, as well as added attractions. Bring some cash.
Registration is open and spaces may be limited. Donations to local food banks can be made at the time of registration or on farm during the tour day. Last year’s donation to food banks in Shelburne and Orangeville added up to more than $11,000.
A passport and map will be sent out to those registered. Farms are all within about 20-30 minutes from Orangeville.
Sign up for free at www. dufferinfarmtour. com. For more information, contact learn@ dufferinfarmtour.com.
