Fergus, ON – On Wednesday, Fergus Agricultural Society volunteers gathered to celebrate a $15,600 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant enabled the organization to host a new Agriculture Education Day for local grade five students at the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex.
“Agriculture is an essential part of our way of life. It is so important to remind everyone that food doesn’t just appear in our grocery stores but there is a large and elaborate industry that makes this possible. I am excited to see the Fergus Agricultural Society move forward with their first Agriculture Education Day thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” said Joseph Racinsky, MPP for Wellington—Halton Hills.
The $15,600 grant was used to hire an educational consultant and project coordinator to research existing educational programs and resources and plan a new Agriculture Education Day. The funds also covered expenses such as site rental and event supplies so the field trip was available at no cost to the schools. Nearly 340 students from nine local schools participated in the event, where students visited 25 learning stations where volunteers led discussions and hands-on activities about farm animals, crops, equipment and technology.
“Showcasing local food and farming to students and teachers in this format is a dream come true,” said Rebecca Hannam, Fergus Agricultural Society director. “We greatly appreciate the OTF funding this project so participants could come and learn about agriculture in a fun way. Now that we have a program developed and have hosted a pilot day that we can evaluate and learn from, I’m hopeful there is a way to make this an annual event.”
The Fergus Agricultural Society is a non-profit organization that aims to promote agriculture, celebrate rural lifestyles, recognize talent and inspire connections. Upcoming events include Breakfast on the Farm on June 21, 2025 and the Fergus Fall Fair on September 12, 13, 14, 2025. Visit fergusfallfair.ca to learn more.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
-30-