Wellington County, Ont. – Wellington County’s Experimental Acres programme has been selected as a finalist for an Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Award of Excellence in Rural Economic Development.
Launched as part of the County's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting sustainable farming practices, Experimental Acres offers small and medium-sized farms in Wellington County the opportunity to trial regenerative agriculture practices in a low-risk environment. By providing up to $3,000 in micro-grants, soil testing, and research support, the programme empowers farmers to adopt practices that reduce emissions and increase long-term farm profitability.
Key Achievements of Experimental Acres:
- Support for Small and Medium Farms: In 2024, 10 farmers participated in the programme, with 39 soil tests conducted across 10 farms. The funding has enabled farmers to expand operations, diversify crops, and create new local collaborations, such as a partnership with a nearby cidery.
- Replicability: The Experimental Acres Handbook, launched in 2023, provides a step-by-step guide for municipalities interested in adopting the programme. Wellington County has shared the model at various national and international conferences, with several municipalities now launching their own versions.
- Sustainability and Innovation: The programme has played a key role in fostering a community of practice among farmers, strengthening the agricultural sector through knowledge sharing, and supporting workforce development through partnerships with post-secondary institutions.
“This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of Wellington County’s Climate and Economic Development teams, local farmers, and municipal partners,” said Jeff Duncan, Chair of the Economic Development Committee. “I’m proud of Wellington County ‘s innovative approach to supporting agricultural sustainability and climate action, ensuring a brighter future for our farmers and economy.”
Wellington County is a leader in agricultural innovation and climate action. With approximately 2,600 farms contributing significantly to Ontario’s agricultural economy, the County is dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability while fostering economic growth and supporting rural communities.
“Through flexible programme design and continuous learning, Experimental Acres is achieving measurable success and providing a replicable model for municipalities across Ontario,” said Jordan Grigg, Agriculture Coordinator at Wellington County. “We look forward to continuing to support our agricultural community, helping farmers innovate for a sustainable future.”
Applications for 2025 Experimental Acres projects are currently being accepted until January 19, 2025, and will be approved pending 2025 budget deliberations.
For more information on Experimental Acres, please visit www.wellington.ca/experimentalacres.
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Media Contact:
Jordan Grigg
Agriculture Coordinator
T 226.962.8027
Email jordang@wellington.ca