Agriculture

History of Agriculture in Quinte West

The communities that make up Quinte West have strong agricultural ties. Agriculture in Quinte West commenced in the late 1700s when settlers from Europe and the American colonies first came to what was then called Upper Canada or Canada West. Many were United Empire Loyalists who were forced to leave the colonies to the south and were given land in return for their loyalty and service to England during the American War of Independence.

These settlers cleared their land holdings, produced food, and supported large families which were essential for the labour involved in clearing and developing farms. Lumbering was also an important occupation and from these two industries the present-day development emerged.

Agriculture Today

Agricultural production in Quinte West includes cereal grains, forage, corn  and oil crops, fruits and vegetables, livestock (dairy and beef), and woodlot products including maple syrup. Related activities include equestrian stables, garden centres, bed-breakfast accommodations, roadside markets, recreation opportunities, and tourist attractions.

Agribusiness

Agriculture also supports a multimillion dollar supply and service (agribusiness) industry in Quinte West. Grain cleaning and storage, milk processing and distribution, agricultural chemical sales and application, feed processing and sales, machine repair and sales, accounting, and crop advisory consulting are among the services provided.

The agricultural industry is not only one of the most productive, it is also one of the most stable and reliable components of the community. It contributes much to the quality of life for which the Quinte West area is noted.

Click here for Stats Canada statistics on farming in Quinte West.

The City of Quinte West has established an Agricultural Advisory Committee that functions as an advisory resource to City Council.