This presentation will explore how thoughtful land use planning can support agricultural prosperity in Dufferin County. It will address the pressures of urban encroachment and farmland loss, the current strengths and challenges of the agricultural sector, and the importance of looking beyond tariffs to consider broader agricultural issues. Emphasis will be placed on educating the wider community about agriculture, fostering stronger urban–rural connections, and highlighting how housing and workforce needs intersect with agricultural viability. The discussion will also consider municipal capacity to plan for and manage rural and agricultural issues effectively. Grounded in the fundamentals of planning, the presentation will outline strategies to ensure that agriculture continues to thrive as a cornerstone of community well-being and economic vitality.

This event is free and open for all! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this engaging dialogue that could shape the future of economic development in Canada!

About Wayne Caldwell:
Wayne Caldwell, Ph.D., RPP, FCIP, is Professor Emeritus in Rural Planning at the University of Guelph’s School of Environmental Design and Rural Development. His expertise includes agricultural planning, farmland preservation, rural community health, and community-driven economic and environmental initiatives. He has authored and edited numerous books on rural planning and development, contributing to policies and best practices that support sustainable rural communities. Dr. Caldwell has also served as President of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute and has led various local, provincial, and national organizations focused on rural and environmental planning.

Register here