The Road to 2051: An agricultural trends study for planning policy in Caledon

Client: Town of Caledon

The agricultural sector plays a key role in the Town of Caledon’s economy and rural history. In fact, Caledon supports 94% of the total farmland within the Region of Peel. Protecting the agricultural land base for future productive use is a key priority as the Town’s population is expected to grow nearly five-fold over the next 30 years.

Wilton Group was pleased to work with the Town of Caledon to develop a long-term agricultural trends study looking forward to 2051. The study will help to inform the Official Plan Review currently underway by the Town. The study examines emerging trends in the agricultural sector, and municipal land use planning policies that may facilitate growth in this key sector while allowing for population growth to take place.

The study was informed by engagement with community members, industry experts and local businesses, research on industry trends, policy analysis, and a jurisdictional review.  Based on this work, three key findings emerged:

• Agriculture is a valued part of Caledon’s economy and local heritage.

• Caledon’s rural landscape and agricultural system has the potential to provide a unique visitor experience.

• Caledon has an opportunity to embrace innovative agri-food technologies and urban agriculture.

These key findings are underpinned by three principles:

1. An important relationship exists between agriculture and the environment.

2. Maintaining food production is a part of a healthy community.

3. The agricultural sector and rural communities are core components of Caledon’s thriving economy.

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