Island farms open gates to public

Annual event provides opportunity to raise awareness

Islanders will get a chance to learn about life on the farm Sunday during open farm day. Prince Edward Island farmers will once again open their doors to give the public a firsthand look at how local farms contribute to Canadian agriculture.

“Open farm day on Prince Edward Island gives farmers a chance to highlight their farming operations and to increase the agriculture awareness for all,” said Bernadette Forrester, chairwoman of the P.E.I. agriculture awareness committee. “The day includes interactions to learn about life on the farm and to ensure a trust in the agri-food industry.” There is a wide range of farms participating this year, covering a variety of commodities, including dairy, potato, market garden, sheep, beef, poultry, blueberries, bees/honey, mixed farms, vegetable, organic, orchards and more. Organizers have partnered with the P.E.I. Woodlot Owners Association and three woodlots are part of the tour as well. Farms will demonstrate their operations, answer questions from the public and allow visitors to experience what life is like for farmers across the Island. The event offers Islanders of all ages the opportunity to see where their food comes from and learn how farms operate.

Last year, 29 participating farms on P.E.I. welcomed 5,500 visitors.

A complete list of participating farms is posted on the P.E.I. agriculture awareness committee webpage: www.peiagsc.ca/openfarmday.