School Meals Could Drive Growth in Ontario and Greenbelt Agri-Food Sectors, New Report Finds

TORONTO, June 4, 2026 — As Ontario celebrates Local Food Week from June 1 to June 7, Growing Local: Strengthening School Food Programs with Ontario Food, a report facilitated by Sustain Ontario, produced by Wilton Consulting Group, and funded by the Schad and Greenbelt Foundations, was released. It draws attention to a simple yet largely overlooked solution to support the province’s competitive and self-reliant agri-food sector: school food programs. With global trade tensions and tariffs on the rise, the report highlights that these programs could help drive demand for both Ontario-grown and regionally grown food, potentially opening up a $200 million annual market.

Ontario’s agri-food sector is a cornerstone of the provincial economy, providing over $50 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing almost 900,000 people. The Ontario Greenbelt region alone generates $9.6 million dollars a year and sustains 177,700 full-time employment opportunities through its agricultural sector.

School food programs are essential elements of students’ health and learning, with Ontario’s Student Nutrition Programs providing over 140 million meals and snacks to over one million students across the province every year. Every region in Ontario, including the Ontario Greenbelt, holds significant potential for local food production that can support these invaluable programs, in addition to Ontario-wide production.

With more than 48,000 farms producing over 200 types of food, the province already supplies more than half of what Ontarians consume. The Greenbelt alone protects 750,000 acres of highly productive farmland, including major crops such as apples, peaches, carrots, and sweet corn.

Highlighting two case studies in the Southwest and Central West regions, the report outlines practical steps to better connect farmers, distributors, and schools, helping deliver high-quality, locally grown food to students while strengthening the regional food system. By offering concrete recommendations, the report provides key stakeholders and decision-makers with actionable solutions to unlock the immense potential of Ontario’s and Greenbelt’s farms.

In addition to Sustain Ontario’s longstanding request for sufficient, dedicated funding for school food programs (with targets for regional and Ontario food procurement, indexed with available supply), this report outlines further critical pathways.

Report’s Key Recommendations:

Foster partnerships between schools and regional farmers, fishers, harvesters, and local processors to support their local school food programs;

Ensure better connections between local food producers and processors and Ontario’s Student Nutrition Program;

Fund a provincial school food and logistics coordinator;

Create a funding stream dedicated to supporting local food and processing innovations;

Develop a seasonal menu toolkit for schools;

Streamline data collection and reporting systems; and

Map the school food supply system in Ontario.

Quotes:

Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation, said: “By protecting food production near Ontario’s major population centres, the Greenbelt helps ensure our students have access to fresh, home-grown food, which is essential for their wellbeing and success. Expanding local food procurement in our schools provides unique economic and social benefits while ensuring our food systems are healthier for both people and the planet.”

Phil Mount: Chair, Sustain Ontario, said: “Every dollar spent that supports Indigenous and Ontario producers, harvesters, fishers, processors generates a powerful ripple effect. Investing in food procurement programs that have both regional and provincial targets is one of the most effective ways to drive equitable economic growth across the province, strengthening urban, rural, and remote economies. By linking farmers, distributors, and schools, this report outlines one clear avenue to put the Grow Ontario vision into action.”

Peter Kendall, Executive Director, The Schad Foundation, said: “Expanding local food procurement in Ontario schools will strengthen regional food systems, boost rural economies, and build students’ understanding of food and agriculture. With coordinated effort, investment, and innovation, Ontario can ensure students are nourished with healthy, local, and sustainable food.”

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About Greenbelt Foundation

Greenbelt Foundation is a charitable organization, solely dedicated to ensuring Ontario’s Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. The Foundation receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as other public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the systems and productivity of the Greenbelt. Since 2005, the Foundation has funded and leveraged more than $100 million through investment in its interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all.

As one of the world’s largest greenbelts, Ontario’s Greenbelt protects 2 million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands, rivers, and lakes that work together to provide clean air, fresh water, and a reliable local food source. For more information, visit: greenbelt.ca.

Instagram: @ongreenbelt
Facebook: Ontario Greenbelt
LinkedIn: Greenbelt Foundation

About The Schad Foundation

The Schad Foundation is a charitable foundation that works to build a healthy future for people and nature through grants supporting environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and access to nutrition. For more information, visit: https://www.schadfoundation.com/

LinkedIn: The Schad Foundation

About Sustain Ontario

Sustain is a province-wide, cross-sectoral alliance of organizations that work through collaborative action towards productive, equitable and sustainable food and farming systems that support the health and wellbeing of all people in Ontario/Indigenous Territories. For more information, visit: https://sustainontario.com/

Instagram: @SustainOntario
Facebook: SustainOnt

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dina Ni
Senior Strategic Communications Advisor
Greenbelt Foundation
dni@greenbelt.ca

Heather Thoma
Provincial Animator
Ontario Chapter of the Coalition for Healthy School Food
Sustain Ontario
heather@sustainontario.com

New Report Spotlights Ontario’s Greenbelt as Strategic Asset for Food Security and Economic Prosperity

TORONTO, March 30, 2026 — The Greenbelt Foundation has released a new report as part of its Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt series, highlighting the Greenbelt’s role in securing a strong agriculture and agri-food system in Ontario. Considering its geography, interconnected system of working farms, concentration of major food industry clusters, and proximity to the largest consumer market in Canada, the Greenbelt is uniquely positioned to ensure Ontario’s self-reliance amid increasing global uncertainty.

Although Canada is the second largest country in the world, in terms of arable agriculture land, it does not rank among the top ten. Ontario’s Greenbelt in the Greater Golden Horseshoe region is a unique strategic asset, where domestic food security meets a trade corridor to the world. As we continue to prepare for global food production risks, increasing environmental pressures, as well economic and trade uncertainty, Ontario’s Greenbelt: The Key to Food Security in the Greater Golden Horseshoe report, authored by the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), outlines issues and opportunities related to the Greenbelt and Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sector.

In Ontario, the agri-food system continues to be an engine of economic growth. In 2024 alone, it contributed over $50 billion to the provincial economy and accounted for one third of Canada’s total agri-food gross domestic product (GDP). The Greenbelt serves as a cornerstone of the sector, producing everything from beef cattle and oil seeds to fruits and vegetables; its high-value farmlands cannot be replicated in other parts of the province. Notably, Greenbelt farms generate 68% more revenue per acre than an average Ontario farm.

“The strength of Ontario’s food system is rooted in the Greenbelt. As global risks and economic uncertainty increase, protecting our agricultural base is now more critical than ever,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation. “We have a unique opportunity to harness the full potential of these world-class agricultural lands and support the province’s growth by investing in Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sectors, ensuring our food sovereignty, economic resilience, and community well-being. The Greenbelt can become the place where Canadian agriculture comes together, making it an emerging global food asset.”

Key Facts:

The Greenbelt’s agriculture and agri-food system generated $4.1 billion in GDP and supported 58,840 jobs in 2020.

The Greenbelt alone accounts for over 52% of Ontario’s fruit acreage, including 80% acreage of grapes, plums, prunes, and apricots.

Over 5,000 (one third of national total) food and beverage manufacturing establishments are located in Ontario, of which 60% are in the Greenbelt’s vicinity.

Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food exports nearly doubled between 2017 and 2024, growing from $15.5 billion to $28.3 billion.

Together, these findings show that trade wars not only brought challenges but also uncovered the Greenbelt’s untapped potential. Tyler McCann, Managing Director, Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), said: “Agriculture and food have always been important, but changing geopolitics, climate and economics make land the starting point for an increasingly strategic sector. Land-use decisions made today will have long-term impacts on Ontarians’ ability to eat, work, and live in a strong, productive, and thriving province.”

Report Recommendations:

To meet the growing demand for local and affordable food and the Grow Ontario Strategy goal of 30% production and consumption of local food by 2032, an agriculture and agri-food strategy for Ontario that capitalizes on the Greenbelt as a strategic asset must be developed.

To resist emerging domestic and international pressures, Greenbelt policies must remain effective over the next decade.

To boost coordination in decision making, greater collaboration between stakeholders and land use planners must be ensured.

To realize agricultural and agri-food opportunities, enhanced investment in local market development and infrastructure as well as agricultural innovation is needed.

To provide long-term business certainty, farms’ connectivity and succession (transfer of farms ownership and management to next generations) must be supported and incentivized.

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About the Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt Series

The Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt series aims to communicate the Greenbelt’s impact; identify opportunities and challenges in increasing its role in climate adaptation, economic resilience, and provincial prosperity; and provide actionable recommendations for decision-makers to ensure the region continues to thrive.

About Greenbelt Foundation

Greenbelt Foundation is a charitable organization, solely dedicated to ensuring Ontario’s Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. We make focused investments in its interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. Ontario’s Greenbelt is the one of the world’s largest, with over two million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands, and rivers working together to provide clean air, fresh water, and a reliable local food source.

About Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute

The Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI) is an independent, non-partisan and not-for-profit organization established in 2004. It brings together agri-food leaders to share insights and advance ideas on emerging issues facing the agri-food sector. By providing research, reference materials, and educational resources for stakeholders, CAPI supports long-term growth and prosperity in Canada’s agri-food industry.

For Media Inquiries, Please Contact:

Dina Ni
Senior Strategic Communications Advisor
media@greenbelt.ca

Greenbelt Foundation Social Media:

Website: greenbelt.ca
Instagram: @ongreenbelt
Facebook: Ontario Greenbelt
LinkedIn: Greenbelt Foundation

New Regional Soil Health Report Highlights Pathways to Healthier Soils Across the Greater Golden Horseshoe

The Greenbelt Foundation, in partnership with the Soil Health Institute, has released a groundbreaking Regional Soil Health Report, offering farmers across the Greater Golden Horseshoe an entirely new way to understand and improve their soil health.

This first-of-its-kind study in Canada provides farmers with clear, regionally relevant benchmarks that show how their management practices are affecting soil health and where there is room for improvement. With this information, farmers can identify which practices have the greatest impact on building healthier, more resilient soils—allowing for more precise, evidence-based management decisions.

Based on two years of on-farm data, the report establishes the province’s first management-based approach to evaluate soil health and highlights practices that are already delivering measurable improvements. By comparing results across different soil types and management systems, the study gives farmers the tools to evaluate performance within conditions that mirror their own operations.

“This approach provides a new opportunity for the soil health and regenerative agriculture movements,” said Dr. Wayne Honeycutt, President and CEO of the Soil Health Institute. “It shows farmers how much healthier their soils can become and which practices are working in their region, with benefits that extend far beyond the farm gate.”

This project responds directly to a significant recommendation from the Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry, led by Senator Rob Black, which called for a standardized, scalable approach to measuring soil health in Canada. By demonstrating how consistent indicators can be applied across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Regional Soil Health Report provides a science-based model for standardized measurement, reporting, and verification of soil health.

The study compared data from three different management systems:

Baseline sites – cash crop systems using conventional tillage.

Soil Health sites – cash crop systems using reduced tillage and cover crops.

Reference sites – minimally disturbed fields such as hay or pasture.

By comparing these systems across multiple soil texture categories (e.g., sandy loams and clay loams), the project accounted for the inherent differences in how soils retain water, store carbon, and respond to management. This regionally specific, texture-based approach ensures that farmers can compare their soils to meaningful benchmarks within similar conditions—a major advancement in how soil health is assessed, benchmarked, and communicated in Ontario.

Key Findings

The results demonstrate that adopting beneficial management practices (BMPs) significantly improves soil health across physical, biological, and chemical indicators:

BMPs improve soil health: On average, fields using soil health practices had higher scores across all measured indicators than baseline fields.

Compared to baseline sites, farms using soil health practices showed on average:

6% increase in soil organic carbon and organic matter, resulting in increased nutrient availability.

12% increase in available water-holding capacity, resulting in increased resilience to flooding and droughts.

16% increase in aggregate stability, resulting in reduced soil erosion.

28% increase in soil respiration, resulting in improved nutrient cycling.

39% increase in mineralizable nitrogen, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.

These results show that fields using BMPs have higher scores across all soil health indicators. “Healthy soils are the fundamental basis of a resilient and productive agricultural system,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation. “This report demonstrates that farmers in the Greater Golden Horseshoe are already making measurable progress through practices that enhance soil structure, boost biological activity, and build long-term resilience.”

The Regional Soil Health Report provides a model for evidence-based soil management, thereby bridging the gap between research and practice, and empowering farmers to make informed management decisions. Additionally, by testing 264 carefully selected sites, the project generated enough data to benchmark approximately 1.8 million acres of farmland across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, demonstrating the scalability and regional relevance of this model. By doing so, the project not only equips farmers with actionable insights but also offers a cost-effective framework for the broader agricultural sector and government to track, measure, and direct investment in soil health.

For more information and to access the full report, visit:
greenbelt.ca/research-report/regional_soil_health_report/

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation 

The Greenbelt Foundation is the only organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. Operating as an independent, charitable organization, the Foundation receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the Greenbelt’s natural and economic systems. 

Now a world-class model for land use policy, Ontario’s Greenbelt spans over two million acres of protected natural landscapes, farmlands, and urban river valleys. For more information, visit: greenbelt.ca. 

About the Soil Health Institute

The Soil Health Institute is a global non-profit with a mission to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soils through scientific research and advancement. The Institute brings together leaders in soil health science and the industry to conduct research and empower farmers and other landowners with the knowledge to successfully adopt regenerative soil health systems that contribute economic and environmental benefits to agriculture and society.

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Serena Luk

Greenbelt Foundation

media@greenbelt.ca

Honouring 20 Years of Impact: Greenbelt Foundation Presents 2025 Friend of the Greenbelt Awards

20^th Anniversary Event at the Toronto Botanical Garden Celebrates Two Decades of Impact and Environmental Leadership

TORONTO, ON – On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, members of the Greenbelt community gathered at the Toronto Botanical Garden to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Ontario’s Greenbelt. The evening brought together partners, supporters, and advocates to reflect on two decades of environmental leadership, sustainable growth, and community collaboration that have shaped the Greenbelt into the world-renowned legacy it is today.

Ontario’s Greenbelt spans 2 million acres of protected farmland, forests, wetlands, rivers, and lakes across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, one of North America’s fastest-growing regions. It encompasses key ecological and agricultural zones such as the Niagara Escarpment, Oak Ridges Moraine, and the Holland Marsh.

For over twenty years, the Greenbelt has supported sustainable farming and local food systems, safeguarded water resources, protected biodiversity, mitigated climate change impacts, and fostered recreation, tourism, and rural economies. It is not just about conservation; it unlocks long-term prosperity. Protecting the Greenbelt is essential to ensuring Ontario’s growing population’s long-term environmental health, food and water security, and prosperity.

At this year’s 20^th anniversary celebration, guests enjoyed a reception featuring Greenbelt-grown food and beverages, followed by an inspiring program of reflections, performances, and the annual Friend of the Greenbelt award ceremony.

“Tonight’s celebration is a testament to what’s possible when communities, partners, and leaders come together around a shared vision for a greener, more sustainable Ontario,” says Edward McDonnel, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation. “As we look towards the future, we need what the Greenbelt offers more than ever; it protects the lands that feed us, cleans the waters that sustain us, and provides the natural spaces that inspire us. Our collective commitment to the Greenbelt will ensure it thrives and stays permanently protected.”

Each year, the Friend of the Greenbelt Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose vision and dedication strengthen Ontario’s Greenbelt. In honour of the 20th anniversary, this year’s awards celebrated those who were instrumental in the Greenbelt’s creation and continue to champion its success today.

The 2025 Friend of the Greenbelt Award recipients are:

Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director of the Waterfront Regeneration Trust
Friend of the Greenbelt: Legacy Partner Award

Sandy Houston, Founding Board Chair of the Greenbelt Foundation and Current Board Chair at Metcalf Foundation
Friend of the Greenbelt: Early Leader Award

Kerry-Ann Charles, Executive Director for Ne’ikaanigaana Inc.
Friend of the Greenbelt: Thought Partner Award

RBC Foundation
Friend of the Greenbelt: Funding Partner Award

Shraiyah Jeevithan, Grade 8 Student, Donald Cousens Public School and Omar Kattan, First-Year Student, University of Calgary
Friend of the Greenbelt: Rising Leader Award

The evening also featured powerful artistic performances by a group of acclaimed guest performers:

Stacey Laforme, Former Chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit

Kevin Hearn, Member of the Barenaked Ladies

Josh Finlayson, Member of the Skydiggers

Hugh Marsh, Juno Award nominated Violinist

Together, their spoken word and musical performances set an uplifting tone for the evening, reminding attendees of the deep cultural and ecological connections that define the Greenbelt.

The Greenbelt Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to all honourees and attendees for their commitment to preserving Ontario’s natural and agricultural lands for generations to come.

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation  

The Greenbelt Foundation is the only organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. Operating as an independent, charitable organization, the Foundation receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the Greenbelt’s natural and economic systems.  

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Serena Luk

Greenbelt Foundation

media@greenbelt.ca

Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy: A Path Towards Sustainable Tourism and Reconciliation on an Iconic Landscape

May 1, 2025: The Greenbelt Foundation and Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation (ORMF) are excited to announce the publication of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy, which aims to enhance the ecological and tourism potential of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail (ORMT).

The Greenbelt Foundation and Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation (ORMF) are excited to announce the publication of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy, which aims to enhance the ecological and tourism potential of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail

In 1991, the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Organizing Committee was convened to promote the idea of a Moraine-wide hiking trail to connect people to the Moraine and preserve the natural landscapes along the route. At 268 kms, the current ORMT is an incredible, yet underutilized and under-recognized resource, providing access to greenspace and an iconic landscape for communities all along the Moraine and visitors to the region.

The implementation of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the trail. The Strategy has many intersecting goals including protecting the existing trail; identifying a long-term preferred route; community engagement and education; and contributing to Indigenous reconciliation and governance. By supporting the representation of First Nations Rights holders in trail governance structures and ensuring ongoing dialogue and engagement in ORMT activities, the Trail will serve as a platform to create opportunities for their reconnection to the land and opportunities for upholding and partaking in rights.

“The Greenbelt Foundation is committed to preserving, protecting, and restoring the natural, hydrological, and environmental integrity of the Oak Ridges Moraine, a key feature of Ontario’s Greenbelt” says Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation. “This Trail Strategy will help lay the groundwork for a sustainable and inclusive trail experience for all users and an opportunity to highlight the Oak Ridges Moraine’s unique ecological and cultural heritage.”

“The Oak Ridges Moraine Trail is a testament to decades of dedication from communities, landowners, and organizations like the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation. Their commitment helped shape the trail into the remarkable feature it is today—connecting people to nature and to the rich history of this iconic landscape,” says Robert Messervey, Director, Ontario Greenbelt Foundation Board, and Chair, Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation. “I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to renew the vision and plan for the trail’s future. This is a chance to build on that legacy and ensure the ORM Trail continues to inspire, connect, and thrive for generations to come.”

The ORM Trail Strategy is currently being jointly stewarded by the Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA), ORM Land Trust, ORM Foundation, and Greenbelt Foundation. These partners, along with an external advisory group representing multiple environmental and indigenous partners, will work closely with municipal councils, conservation partners and provincial agencies to move the trail strategy forward. Advisory group members include:

Willie Popp, Ward 4 Councillor, Township of Uxbridge (Chair)
Karen Graham, President, Oak Ridges Trail Association
Susan Walmer, CEO, Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust
Michael McDonald, CEO, Bruce Trail Conservancy
Terri LeRoux, Director of Parks, Lands and Community Engagement, Credit Valley Conservation
Deanna Cheriton, Senior Manager of Conservation Lands, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
Mark Stabb, Program Director – Central Ontario East, Nature Conservancy of Canada

“I am excited to support the Greenbelt Foundation’s Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy. This strategy is crucial for preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Oak Ridges Moraine, protecting the trail, and ensuring it remains an ecological asset for generations to come, says Karen Graham, President, Oak Ridges Trail Association. “The Oak Ridges Trail Association members are passionate about nature, protecting the Moraine, and connecting people to the land through our hike program. We have many dedicated members who are stewards of the trail. The Strategy will help us sustain our stewardship and mandate.”

“I am excited to chair this advisory group as the importance of green space has never been greater. I have always loved the outdoors and this passion is what brought my family and me to Uxbridge — the Trail Capital of Canada,” says Willie Popp, Ward 4 Councillor, Township of Uxbridge. “The Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy will not only expand access to nature for all Ontarians but also spotlight the vital role that tourism and recreation play in sustaining the beauty and purpose of our Greenbelt.”

Next steps for implementing the ORM Trail Strategy include:

Developing a permanent governance model for the Trail, inclusive of leadership of First Nations rightsholders and other Indigenous Peoples
Engaging landowners as true champions of the trail
Hosting community events to present the new trail strategy and solicit community member feedback on a preferred trail route.
Preparing a preferred trail route with a user experience and amenities plan to guide trail development goals.
Developing a land securement strategy to implement the preferred trail route inclusive of Indigenous knowledge and values.

“The Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS) Team is excited to once again be supporting the Greenbelt Foundation as they undertake important work to revitalize the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM) Trail and redevelop the trail strategy. With the ORM being such a fundamental environmental feature that is a natural water filtration system for major portions of Southern Ontario, it is of upmost importance that people are aware of and can interact with this landscape in a respectful way,” said Kerry-Ann Charles, Georgina Island First Nation Member, CIPS, Environment Partnership Coordinator.” “Being a big portion of the ORM Trail runs through the Williams Treaties First Nations (WTFN) Territory, it is also of upmost importance for the First Nations of the lands to be known and their voices ingrained into this work through various opportunities which includes the establishment of the WTFN Champions who we will work with to support and guide this work as a step towards Reconciliation”.

The ORMT Strategy emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships that foster meaningful participation. By collaborating with all levels of government, conservation authorities, and Indigenous communities, the GBF and ORMF aims to integrate supportive policy language into relevant planning documents, refine route alignment, and standardize maintenance agreements across the Trail. Additionally, the strategy includes the development of a Volunteer Training Program and Indigenous Engagement Program to support ongoing maintenance efforts.

The Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy represents a significant step towards sustainable tourism, ecological preservation, and reconciliation with Indigenous communities. To learn more please visit: Oak Ridges Moraine Trail Strategy.

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation 

 Since 2005, with the support of the Province of Ontario and many partners, the Foundation has funded investments in the Greenbelt’s interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all.  Now a world-class model for land use policy, Ontario’s Greenbelt spans over two million acres of protected natural landscapes, farmlands, and urban river valleys. For more information, visit: www.greenbelt.ca. 

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Contact: 
Serena Luk 
Content and Media Relations Manager
Greenbelt Foundation 
media@greenbelt.ca 

Greenbelt Foundation Celebrates National Forest Week with 1 Million Trees in the Greenbelt Program to Enhance Forest Systems While Educating Communities

TORONTO, September 24, 2024 – The Greenbelt Foundation is celebrating National Forest Week by highlighting success to date with its 1 Million Trees in the Greenbelt Program, which aims to educate communities and enhance forest systems in the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) region. With a strong focus on strategic planting and community education, this program seeks to increase understanding of the importance of healthy forest cover and associated human and ecological benefits.

Greenbelt Foundation Celebrates National Forest Week with 1 Million Trees in the Greenbelt Program to Enhance Forest Systems While Educating Communities

Under this program, the Foundation is making progress to achieve its vision for healthy forest cover in the Greenbelt and GGH, ensuring consistency and shared goals through regional partnerships. Additionally, the program aims to highlight the benefits of strategic tree planting, including biodiversity expansion and health, carbon sequestration, and increased climate resiliency for communities. In the face of increasing extreme weather events, tree cover zones are essential to providing physical and mental health benefits, while also allowing access to recreational and cultural spaces close to home as well as providing critical habitats and corridors for biodiversity which are crucial to near urban nature.

This program could not be achieved without our key partners. Many organizations are involved in the program, including Green Communities Canada (GCC), Forests Ontario, and EcoSchools Canada. Last year, GCC planted 2000 trees, creating mini forests in four different communities and will expand to five additional communities this year. Within the Greenbelt, Forests Ontario has planted 500,000 trees in 326 planting sites which also helps advance their own 50 Million Tree Program. Educating the next generation and engaging with over 90,000 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, EcoSchools Canada works with schools across the Greenbelt on planting native species. Every year one high school wins the top grant from the Take Action in the Greenbelt Program with a celebration planting event applauding the students’ efforts and their dedication to environmental stewardship.

“The Greenbelt Foundation is excited to continue this important journey towards a greener and more sustainable future”, says Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “By engaging communities, enhancing forest systems, and protecting vital ecosystems, the 1 Million Tree Planting Program will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

Planting trees is beneficial to biodiversity, but research also shows an increase in green covering improves outdoor thermal comfort, reduces energy consumption for buildings, and enhances individual productivity. These are key elements in climate mitigation which can minimize extreme weather reports. With increased trees, we are adding natural assets to Ontario making it more climate resilient and safeguarding the vital resources that clean our air and water.

For more information about the program and how to get involved, please visit www.greenbelt.ca/1_million_greenbelt_trees.

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation 

Since 2005, the Foundation has funded and leveraged more than $100 million through investment in its interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. 

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For media inquiries: 
Serena Luk
Content and Media Relations Manager
The Greenbelt Foundation 
416-960-0001 

Solutions for Addressing Loss of Public Park Space

New Report Outlines Strategy for Increasing Access to Urban and Near-Urban Greenspaces Through Private Land Stewardship and Indigenous Collaboration

Toronto, June 4, 2024 – As Ontario grows, there is an increasing demand for greenspaces within and near urban areas. Large parks provide benefits for physical and mental health, allow access to recreational and cultural spaces close to home and can provide critical habitats and corridors for biodiversity. In response, a recent report titled Integrating Private Lands in Large Park Networks, by the Greenbelt Foundation in partnership with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and Cambium Indigenous Professional Services, examines the potential for incorporating private lands into large park and trail systems with the benefits of it being in near urban areas to increase greenspace access for all.

The greatest need for recreation and biodiversity conservation are within the nation’s most urban regions, which also have high levels of private land ownership

The greatest need for recreation and biodiversity conservation are within the nation’s most urban regions, which also have high levels of private land ownership. As Canada advances reconciliation through conservation actions, private lands donated, secured, or placed under conservation easements are an opportunity to engage Indigenous Communities and recognize Rights and Responsibilities on their Territorial treaties while preserving biodiversity and connecting ecological trail systems with other protected areas to enhance the support of human health and wellbeing.

The report highlights key recommendations to update existing government conservation and land securement programs for private lands such as the Ecological Gifts Program and Natural Heritage Conservation Program, to reflect these goals. Additional recommendations urge governments, First Nations and community partners, such as land trusts and conservation authorities, to unite strategies and programs to conserve biodiversity, increase access to greenspace and create opportunities for Indigenous Peoples to connect with and uphold their rights and responsibilities to their traditional and treaty lands by targeting private lands for inclusion in large parks networks.

“In Canada‘s largest urban area addressing the growing need for large park planning across the region is increasingly important if we are to meet the needs of our growing population – but we need innovative and contemporary solutions in these near-urban areas,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation, “Southern Ontario is also a biodiversity hotspot and home to many First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Updating private land stewardship programs is critical to new park creation – along with ensuring protection of ecosystems and alignment with Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities. ” 

“While historical injustices towards Indigenous Peoples remain a standing issue, collaborations with Indigenous Peoples, Communities and Organizations is imperative in moving any environmental issue forward,” said Kerry-Ann Charles, Environment Partnership Coordinator at Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS). “A collaborative approach to increasing access to and expanding greenspace would fulfill a plethora of mutually beneficial needs, from the restoration of native ecosystems and species habitats to the supported assertion of Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities in the stewardship and management of the environment, including the spiritual connection to the natural world and the lessons they teach us. This collaboration and the recommendations put forth is a great example of a step forward in creating opportunities for Western and Indigenous knowledge systems and practices to be bridged and implemented within Ethical Space achieving the ultimate goal of creating a system truly rooted in Two Eyed Seeing and in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation.”

Building upon the challenges identified in the Foundation’s 2019 and 2022 reports; State of Large Parks in Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe and Improving Access to Large Parks in Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe, which identified a trending loss in park lands, this latest report also utilizes five case studies to showcase successful initiatives related to private lands that address landowner concerns related to public safety and liability, the integration of formal land conservation programs with traditional cultural ties and practices to the land, and balancing public use and ecosystem health. In addition to new legislation and the importance of coordinated efforts to safeguard ecological connections, case studies showcase how public safety and liability concerns can be addressed to support public access to private land and the integration of formal land conservation programs with cultural ties to the land.

“Protecting greenspace in cities and nearby areas is crucial for connecting ecosystems and providing people with access to nature. In areas where public greenspace is limited, protected and accessible private lands can bridge the gap to parks and conservation areas. This not only benefits communities’ physical and mental health but also aids in conserving and enhancing biodiversity.” said Sameer Dhalla, Director, Development & Engineering Services at TRCA. “Furthermore, private land conservation presents a unique opportunity for meaningful engagement with Indigenous Communities, facilitating the recognition and implementation of Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities.”

For more detailed information on the study’s methodology and specific results from each case study, please refer to the full report and the backgrounder .

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation

The Greenbelt Foundation is the only organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. The Foundation operates as an independent, charitable organization, and receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as other public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the systems and productivity of the Greenbelt. Since 2005, the Foundation has invested in the interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all.

Now a world-class model, Ontario’s Greenbelt spans over two million acres of protected natural landscapes, farmlands, and urban river valleys. For more information, visit: www.greenbelt.ca.

About Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS)

CIPS is headquartered at the Curve Lake First Nation in Ontario. A First Nation owned and operated engineering and consulting company, CIPS is dedicated to making a positive difference in the communities it serves. It offers a range of services from Environmental to Indigenous Awareness Training to Meeting Facilitation, Planning and Hosting.

About Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)

Since 1957, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), as enabled through the provincial Conservation Authorities Act, has taken action to enhance our region’s natural environment and protect our land, water, and communities from the impacts of flooding and increasingly extreme weather events – Ontario’s leading cause of public emergencies.

As the region’s first line of defence against natural hazards, TRCA maintains vital infrastructure and provides programs and services that promote public health and safety, protecting people and property.

TRCA mobilizes a science-based approach to provide sound policy advice, leveraging its position as a not-for-profit operating in the broader public sector to achieve collective impacts within our communities and across all levels of government.

TRCA’s jurisdiction includes nine watersheds and their Lake Ontario shorelines, spanning six upper-tier and fifteen lower-tier municipalities and representing almost five million people, approximately 10% of Canada’s population.

To learn more about TRCA, visit trca.ca.

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For media inquiries:

Serena Luk

Content and Media Relations Manager

Media@greenbelt.ca

The Greenbelt Foundation

416-960-0001

Extreme Heat Study Reveals the Power of Green Spaces in Mitigating the Effects of Climate Change

Report by the Greenbelt Foundation studies financial tools that municipalities can use to support smart growth and reduce long-term costs to ensure the continued success of the Ontario Greenbelt

TORONTO, August 23, 2023 – Extreme heat events are predicted to rise in the Greater Toronto Area from 20 days per year to 66 days per year by 2050, leading to increased risk of heat-related illnesses and mortality. A new study Health-Informed Heat Mitigation Approach: Case Study of The Regional Municipality of York introduces a novel framework that highlights the importance of greenery cover in protecting people from heat stress and building environmental resilience to climate change. Enriching urban greenery cover is identified as a cost-effective strategy to mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide cooling benefits.

Enriching urban greenery cover is identified as a cost-effective strategy to mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide cooling benefits.

The research used two residential neighbourhoods in York Region and examined the health impacts of heat exposure under two scenarios: expected heat exposure in a typical summer and expected heat exposure during an extreme heat event. The results showed that even short-term rises in outdoor heat stress can potentially result in higher mortality rates and increased health system use. However, increasing neighbourhood greenery cover can reduce maximum and minimum ambient temperatures and humidex values during heat waves. This reduction in temperatures can lower health-related risks due to hot temperatures and may lead to fewer heat-related mortalities and emergency department visits.

“This study provides a valuable framework to estimate the health impacts of extreme heat events and gives us insight into the economic benefits of prioritizing the expansion of greenery cover in urban areas,” said Ed McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “By investing in green infrastructure in urban spaces, we can effectively mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures and extreme heat events and build community resilience to climate change.”

The model used in the study predicts population health impacts based on the historical relationship between heat exposure and health records. By reducing people’s exposure to extreme heat, we can see economic benefits in communities, such as reduced use of health system services, lower energy consumption, and increased productivity.

The study’s innovative framework also assesses the co-benefits of increased greenery cover, including improved outdoor thermal comfort, reduced energy consumption for buildings, and enhanced individual productivity. By applying the model to the case study neighbourhoods in Markham Village and East Woodbridge, the research demonstrates the potential of increasing greenery cover to mitigate the urban heat island effect. The report’s findings provide more insight into this emerging research field on the benefits of greenspaces on health. Along with future research and the increasing evidence of greenspace benefits, decision-makers can take proactive measures to combat climate change’s adverse effects to safeguard our communities’ health and well-being.

For more detailed information on the study’s methodology and specific results for each neighbourhood, please refer to the technical and summary reports.

About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation

The Greenbelt Foundation is the only organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. The Foundation operates as an independent, charitable organization, and receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as other public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the systems and productivity of the Greenbelt. Since 2005, the Foundation has funded and leveraged more than $100 million through investment in its interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all.

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For media inquiries:
Serena Luk
Content and Media Relations Manager
The Greenbelt Foundation
416-960-0001

Greenbelt Foundation Celebrates Planting Half a Million Trees with Forests Ontario

The Greenbelt Foundation and Forests Ontario are working together to increase urban and rural forest cover and improve climate resilience in communities across Ontario’s Greenbelt.

Richmond Hill, Ont. (June 19, 2023) – Today, the Greenbelt Foundation, Forests Ontario, their planting partners and local political figures gathered in Richmond Hill to celebrate the planting of 500,000 trees on private and public land in the Greenbelt and its river valleys over the last two years – but the planting is far from over.

“Tree planting in the Greenbelt contributes to provincial and federal goals, while having the critical benefit of improving our green spaces and reducing climate risks in the country’s most populous region,” says Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “But it’s not just about planting lots of trees. It’s about planting the right trees in the right places, which is exactly what we’re working with Forests Ontario to do.”

Healthy, connected tree cover is a proven form of natural infrastructure that protects our freshwater systems, supports biodiversity like the pollinators we rely on for crops, reduces the impacts of climate change like flooding, and provides important green space to local communities. Healthy forests have also supported local Indigenous cultures and economies since time immemorial.

“Forests Ontario has developed the expertise and infrastructure to grow and track tree planting from seed to thriving forest, and we are the only Canadian charity that addresses each stage of this process to ensure our collective tree planting efforts result in heathy, diverse forests,” says Jess Kaknevicius, CEO of Forests Ontario. “We are thrilled to be working with the Greenbelt Foundation again to improve tree cover and strengthen our natural systems.”

Working in collaboration with Forests Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program, municipalities and private landowners across Ontario’s Greenbelt were once again able to plant trees at a reduced cost through the support of the Greenbelt Foundation’s 1 Million Trees in the Greenbelt project. With the ongoing support of the Province of Ontario, the Greenbelt Foundation is able to provide grants to execute planting projects throughout the Greenbelt.

The goals of the project are to increase tree cover using native species, reduce landowner costs, and improve the health and resilience of the Greenbelt’s natural heritage systems by engaging with regional and community planting partners, stewardship groups, forestry consultants and First Nations, to get more trees in the ground.

While future plantings will largely be guided by the applications submitted, the Greenbelt Foundation and partners are identifying datasets, modelling tools and other information to determine where forest cover is most needed. Municipalities, communities and landowners in the Greenbelt who are suitable for large reforestation efforts are encouraged to visit www.greenbelt.ca to determine if they fall within the Greenbelt’s boundaries for this project and apply.

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For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Greenbelt Foundation Media
Telephone: (416) 960-0001
Extension: 311
media@greenbelt.ca

About The Greenbelt Foundation
The Greenbelt Foundation is a charitable organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected and prosperous. We make the right investments in its interconnected natural, agricultural and economic systems to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. Ontario’s Greenbelt is one of the world’s largest with over two million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands and rivers working together to provide clean air, fresh water and a reliable local food source. greenbelt.ca.

Instagram: @ongreenbelt | Twitter: @greenbeltca | Facebook: Ontario Greenbelt

Greenbelt Foundation Media Contact: (416) 960-0001 Extension: 311 | media@greenbelt.ca  

About Forests Ontario & Forest Recovery Canada

Forests Ontario is the province’s leading charity dedicated to the creation, preservation, and maintenance of forest and grassland habitats. Our ambitious, large-scale tree planting initiatives, extensive educational programs, and decades of community outreach result in millions of trees being planted each year.

Together with our national division, Forest Recovery Canada, we work with our many partners across the country to plant native trees and ensure our efforts today thrive and grow into tomorrow’s diverse, healthy, and resilient forests.

Visit www.forestsontario.ca or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn to find out more.

New Soil Health Program Will Improve Profits for Ontario Farmers, Boost Sustainability for the Region

Free Greenbelt Foundation-Led Program Provides One-on-One Support for Participating Farmers

TORONTO, June 8, 2023 — The Greenbelt Foundation is providing Ontario farmers the opportunity to measure and evaluate the impact of different beneficial management practices (BMPs) on soil health. Through a regionally unique Soil Health Testing Program, the Foundation and the US-based Soil Health Institute will advance soil health assessment and management across Ontario, improving profits for farmers, boosting the strength of local food systems, and furthering Ontario’s ecological sustainability goals.

The Greenbelt Foundation is providing Ontario farmers the opportunity to measure and evaluate the impact of different beneficial management practices (BMPs) on soil health.

This program will implement an innovative, scalable method for evaluating and tracking improvements in soil health. The soil health indicators measured will include organic carbon concentration, carbon mineralization potential, aggregate stability, permanganate-oxidizable carbon, and available water holding capacity. These indicators represent a range of soil health outcomes, including increased nutrient cycling capacity, microbial activity, and resistance to erosion. The program will draw on farmer-to-farmer social networks to share technical agronomic knowledge about implementing soil health systems.

“Farmers know that healthy soils are key to productivity, while having the added benefits of supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health,” says Jenny Bower, Research Soil Scientist at the Soil Health Institute. “But farmers can only manage what they can measure. This program enables farmers to measure soil health improvement associated with changes in management practices.”

The Program aims to sample 300 to 500 farms in the Golden Horseshoe region. Once sampling is completed, participating farmers will receive customized soil health reports to compare soil health in their fields to similar soils in their region. The program will provide farmers with one-on-one support from experts, helping them to set goals, overcome barriers and get on course to build healthy, productive soils.

“Agriculture in the Greenbelt contributes $4.1 billion each year to Ontario’s economy, and provides over 60,000 full-time jobs,” explains Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “But like everywhere, our farmers face challenges from development, climate change, rising production costs, and deteriorating soil health. This program provides farmers with the tools and support they need to improve their soil’s health, boost their yields and margins, and maintain their place as the cornerstone of Ontario’s regional economy.”

This program is a collaborative effort among the Greenbelt Foundation, the Soil Health Institute, and several Ontario agricultural organizations, including Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association, Soils at Guelph, Ontario Certified Crop Advisor Association, and Conservation Ontario. This project is funded and supported by the Weston Family Foundation’s Soil Health Initiative and the Government of Ontario.

Calling all Grain and oilseed farmers in the Golden Horseshoe region to apply now for free soil health sampling and assessment to know what BMP’s are best for your farm. Eligibility is open to Golden Horseshoe farmers, within and beyond the Greenbelt boundaries. Sampling will take place in Hamilton, Halton, and Peel in 2023, followed by sampling in Niagara, York, and Durham in 2024. More information about the project can be found here.

To read the full project backgrounder, click here.

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About Greenbelt Foundation  

The Greenbelt Foundation is a charitable organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected and prosperous. We make the right investments in its interconnected natural, agricultural and economic systems to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. Ontario’s Greenbelt is one of the world’s largest with over two million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands and rivers working together to provide clean air, fresh water and a reliable local food source. greenbelt.ca.

Instagram: @ongreenbelt | Twitter: @greenbeltca | Facebook: Ontario Greenbelt 

Greenbelt Foundation Media Contact 

(416) 960-0001 Extension 311
media@greenbelt.ca  

About the Soil Health Institute

The Soil Health Institute is a global non-profit with a mission to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soil through scientific research and advancement. We bring together leaders in soil health science and the industry to help farmers, ranchers, and landowners adopt soil health systems that build drought resilience, stabilize yield, and benefit their bottom line. The Institute’s team of scientists, holding doctorates in various soil science and related disciplines, has developed highly effective soil health targets and standardized measurements to quantify progress at achieving regenerative and sustainable agricultural systems, and leads the cutting-edge fields of carbon sequestration and decoding the soil microbiome. Healthy soils are the foundation for rejuvenating our land. Together, we can create a secure future for all, mitigate the effects of climate change, and help agriculture and organizations meet production and environmental goals at scale.

Visit www.soilhealthinstitute.org to learn more and follow the Soil Health Institute on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook.