Project summary and highlights
30 aluminum road signs were produced (10 corn, 10 soybeans, 10 wheat) and erected on high-traffic roads throughout Brant County.
The goal was to increase awareness among the non-farming population.
- Crops grown in Brant County, and the uses of those crops.
- The value of farmland and the need to preserve it for growing crops. It contributes not only to our local food, but non-food uses.
Through this project, the BCFA is helping to heighten awareness among all county residents the value of farmland. The road signs will help educate residents about some of the crops grown and their potential uses. The signs are of excellent quality, expecting to use for the next 3-5 crop seasons.
Promotional coverage
The BCFA Summer Social is being held on August 12, 2023. During this event, we will be communicating to members the value of this project and take photos with the signs as the backdrop. With local news reporters present, we will ensure pictures with local government officials and BCFA board members are taken, creating good content for news articles and social media posts. Project funds were also used to update the BCFA website. The layout of the current website does not easily allow for posting news and events. Once complete, information about Brant County agriculture and its importance to the local economy will be featured. Background information about the road signs will be included, along with a link to the OFA website (land use policy and farmland preservation).
Lasting and relevant impact to the OFA membership
- Members will feel acknowledged and appreciated for their contribution to society and overall economy.
- Increased pride in being a farmer (especially those members whose field is selected for a crop sign, which will change each year).
- Increased pride in being an OFA member. Members want to see OFA/BCFA sharing the message: These crops are grown here, and these are the uses of those crops. Therefore, we need to protect our farmland.
Lasting and relevant impacts to greater community
In general, the greater community is unaware of the value of farmland, its contribution to local food supply and overall economy, and the need to protect it. Everyone should be proud of the diversity of crops grown here in Brant County. This project is just the beginning. We plan to weave the message into all upcoming events, and future meetings with government officials.