Vital Signs Data
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 2.4: Ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices.
Between 2011 and 2021, Prince Edward County’s cropland acreage decreased by -8.23% or 7,105 acres. Cropland — or “land in crops” as termed by Statistics Canada — refers to the usual field crops, as well as fruit and vegetable plantations and sod and nursery products. It does not include hay, pasture, silage crops, Christmas trees, woodlots or any other unproductive areas.
In PEC, the average age of farmers is 58.4 … but 63% of PEC farms do NOT have succession plans. (Statistics Canada, Census of Agriculture, 2021) Will this farmland remain in use for agriculture?
| Agriculture sector | PEC 2006 | PEC 2011 | PEC 2016 | PEC 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total land area (acres) | 145,610 | 130,771 | 125,948 | 110,904 |
| Land in crops (acres) | 92,451 | 86,317 | 86,027 | 79,212 |
| Number of farms | 520 | 477 | 432 | 375 |
| Average age of farm operators | 51.7 | 54.8 | 56.4 | 58.4 |
| Farms reporting a written succession plan | -- | -- | 34 | 44 |
The County Foundation hosted a farmland trust information session in March 2023. (see the recorded presentation to the right) As of August 2024, three PEC farmers have secured permanent land protection of 515 acres through Ontario Farmland Trust, with three more applications to be completed in 2024 (455 acres).
The popularity of PEC is generating more interest and pressure from developers. The updated Official Plan, beginning July 8, 2021, includes a number of key policies aimed at building strong communities, protecting natural heritage systems, protecting agricultural resources, and protecting human health and safety when considering development in the County.
