Agricultural representation key to economic recovery

By Drew Spoelstra, Executive Member, OFA

Rebound, recover, rebuild. Communities across Ontario have developed regional economic recovery task forces and resiliency committees to identify ways to strengthen their economies and rebound from temporary closures and reduced economic activity.

From Chatham-Kent to the City of Hamilton to Renfrew County, representatives from the agricultural community have been asked to join local committees to provide input and be part of the solution for strengthening our economy.

For a community like Hamilton with a large urban and industrial base, it is encouraging that agriculture has a seat at the table, particularly when 70% of the municipality is rural and agricultural. This task force has designated smaller sectoral groups to focus on quick wins and specific goals.