Rally to Preserve Farmland tomorrow at Queen’s Park

News release from Ontario Farmland Preservation September 25, 2011

Barrie, ON – Ontario Farmland Preservation is holding a massive rally at Queen’s park on Friday this week to address the many large solar facilities proposed for thousands of acres of Ontario farmland, as well as the proposed mega quarry in Melancthon Township.

“Wherever you look, Ontario farmland is under threat,” says Bernard Pope, a leader of Ontario Farmland Preservation. “We’re facing food security and availability issues worldwide, and developments like solar, business parks and quarries on productive farmland are steps in the wrong direction.”

The rally will create awareness among citizens, developers and government of how critical it is to protect the soil and water that feed us. It will feature speakers, singers, conversation and peaceful demonstration.

This rally will be held in association with Simcoe Solar Farm Awareness Project, AWARE Simcoe and the Council of Canadians.

The speakers’ list includes farmers, local food advocates, chefs, First Nations and the Council of Canadians. Broadcaster Dale Goldhawk will act as Master of Ceremonies. A partial list of speakers includes: Rancher Carl Cosack, Brent Preston of the New Farm, Bernard Pope of the Ontario Farmland Preservation Organization, Danny Beaton and Mark Calzavara of the Council of Canadians. Hobo Wally will also be performing.

This rally is occurring together with that of the movement to Stop the Mega-Quarry – details {here}.

To contact Bernard Pope, Ontario Farmland Preservation, please call 705 623 1043 or email.