OFA, along with the Durham and York Region Federations of Agriculture have submitted comments to Transport Canada regarding their consultation on the future use of the Pickering Lands.
The submission urges Transport Canada to preserve the Pickering Lands for agricultural use. The organizations emphasize that these lands contain irreplaceable Class 1 soils and play a critical role in Ontario’s and Canada’s long-term food security, environmental sustainability, and economic stability.
The submission highlights strong demand for continued farming, with current tenants committed to maintaining agricultural production. It recommends that, if ownership options are considered, priority be given to existing farmers and previously expropriated families. The organizations also stress that long-term land tenure, either through ownership or extended leases, is essential to support investment in soil health, infrastructure, and sustainable farming practices.