Support our farmers. Buy local.
Across Ontario, the agri-food industry contributes nearly $50 billion to the province’s gross domestic product (GDP), ranking it as the single largest contributor to Ontario’s GDP, while employing more than 860,000 people (source). Sadly, The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) also informs us that 175 acres of prime agricultural lands, the size of 135 football fields, is disappearing every day.
Luckily, Flamborough boasts abundant, fertile land that supports a wealth of farming and agriculture. Though, despite being a billion dollar industry, 60% of farmers in Ontario had under $100,000 in revenues in 2020 (StatsCan). Yet Ontario farmers lead the nation in sustainable farming practices, and use of renewable energy. In Flamborough, the agri-food sector contributes millions to the economy, while supplying our region with fresh produce and meat, horticulture, honey, baked goods, micro greens and more. Looking at the numbers, it’s clear that we need to support our farmers.
Flamborough growers support local restaurants and stores all over Hamilton and surrounding areas. In addition, many agricultural producers offer direct to customer sales through online orders, storefront sales locations, and roadside stands. Further, Flamborough farmers / growers / meat producers are represented across many Hamilton-based and BIA-run farmers’ markets, located in Waterdown, Dundas, Ancaster, Westdale, Locke Street, Ottawa Street, and the year-round Hamilton Farmers’ Market.
This season, when you shop for produce, meat, flowers, and other agri products, think about supporting our local farmers and growers from here in Flamborough / Waterdown. If you choose to shop in-store, look for the Foodland Ontario logo. The agri products grown and raised by our farmers are the best tasting, most nutritious, and safest food we can consume. Our community is stronger because of the hard-working people who grow our food. Join me in supporting our farmers!
The Waterdown Farmers’ Market opens on May 27 in the parking lot of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 551. Operated by the Waterdown BIA, the farmers’ market hosts 30+ vendors from across Flamborough and Southern Ontario, each week through October. On opening day, the Waterdown Farmers’ Market will feature live entertainment, kids crafts & activities, and a plant sale, hosted by the Flamborough Horticultural Society.
Shop local and keep our community stronger. To help point you in the right direction, here is a list of local Flamborough and area producers who would benefit from your business this season. If you are a farmer / grower in the area and would like to be included in this list, please email ted.mcmeekin@hamilton.ca, as I will be pleased to add you as well.
