Draft Regional Agricultural System map available for comment

WHITBY: Based on consultation with the Province of Ontario, local area municipalities, conservation authorities and agricultural committees, the Region of Durham has developed a draft Regional Agricultural System based on existing regional and provincial mapping and is inviting the public and agencies to comment.

The draft mapping is intended to implement the Provincial Agricultural System and is a key component of Envision Durham, which is the Municipal Comprehensive Review of the Regional Official Plan.

The Agricultural System was mapped and issued by the province in 2018. It is comprised of the agricultural land base and agri-food network which collectively create a viable, thriving agricultural sector. The agricultural land base is comprised of Prime Agricultural Areas and rural lands in Durham.

Reviewing, refining and implementing the Provincial Agricultural System for Durham Region is intended to protect farmland, prevent fragmentation and maintain the viability of agriculture and growth of the agri-food sectors within the Durham Region.

The map identifying the draft Regional Agricultural System is available as of June 7th, through an interactive web viewer, and input on the draft is requested by September 9th, 2022.

To provide input, use the interactive map available, at durham.ca/EnvisionDurham, or submit comments by emailing EnvisionDurham@durham.ca.

As Council’s core planning document, the Regional Official Plan guides regional decision-making on long-term growth and development.

Envision Durham is an opportunity to deliver a new, forward-looking official plan which will guide growth and change in Durham Region in the years ahead; providing the blueprint for Durham to become known as the place to live, learn and thrive by 2051.

To learn more about Envision Durham, visit their website, at durham.ca/EnvisionDurham.

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