DURHAM REGION AIMING TO SUPPORT THE AGRI-FOOD SECTOR THROUGH LOCAL FOOD Local food producers and related businesses in Durham Region have the opportunity to participate in a Regional Local Food Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) project, led by the Region of Durham’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs Economic Development team. This community-based business visitation project is aimed at supporting local business development and job creation in the agri-food sector. Throughout the first quarter of 2018, trained volunteers will conduct confidential interviews with a variety of local agricultural businesses to understand needs, concerns and opportunities for producers, processors, distributors, and food service providers within Durham Region. “Our local agri-food related businesses help to shape this community. We need to support, retain and create opportunities for these entrepreneurs in the local food chain.” said Nancy Rutherford, Manager of Agriculture and Rural Affairs at the Region. “Through this project, we hope to better understand the specific needs of our local businesses; helping them to continue their growth, here in Durham Region.” The Local Food BR+E project will align with the Ontario BR+E model offered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs; which has been facilitated in numerous communities across Ontario. Survey responses will be analyzed and an action plan will be developed to address opportunities to improve the local agri-food sector in Durham Region. For more information, or to participate, contact Lisa MacKenzie, Agriculture Program Co-ordinator at agriculture@durham.ca or 905-668-4113 ext. 2615.
10
