Loading...
The Rural Voice, 2002-05, Page 37i1 majority of Huron's residents depend on ground water for domestic consumption. Past studies have indicated that area wells suffer from high levels of contamination. The cause of this may come from a variety of sources but as the recent tragedy in Walkerton proved, increased vigilance on everyone's part is a fact of modern rural life. Some have been quick to lay these problems at the farmer's door. However, the county's report on intensive livestock operations notes that local farmers lead all others in participating in, and completing Ontario Environmental Farm Plans. The social consequences of the new farm economy are more difficult to document. McGavin laments the fact that farmers no longer have time to talk. Observations in the shop have convinced him, "The guys are under a lot of pressure" Groups in western Canada have blamed the breakdown of farm families on the new realities of farming. While the evidence cited for this is usually empirical, what can be proved statistically is the aging of the farm community. Rick Steele, a planner for the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, says that the average age of farmers in Huron County is in the 50s and has been rising. Young people are leaving the farm for other careers. Many who remain, ease the financial strain of establishing a farm operation by entering into partnerships with relatives. Huron County's official plan is very definite about the importance of agriculture in the life of the county. It states, "The continued health of agriculture is important not only from an agricultural perspective, but also from a broader community and economic perspective." Tousaw says he doesn;t know the future of intensive farming operations in Huron — "All we can do is continue to monitor and see." What he can and does say with a great deal of certainty is, "The challenge is how we foster sustainable development"0 PARKERS FARM MACHINERY SALES and SERVICE Elmwood 519-363-2731 Warren D. Moore Forest Specialist specializing in: * Woodlot Management * Timber Marking and Marketing * Tree Pruning, Tree Removal * Tree Planting Services Certified Managed Bl h Forest Plan Approver 523-9855 Glen Osprey Farm Salers R.R.#6, Shelburne, Ontario LON 1S9 30 Polled Fullblood & Purebred Salers Bulls 22 Salers heifers complete their BIO test on May 1 Ultra sound results for both groups available at end of test in May. For further information, contact David Pease (519) 925-6412 or check our web page www.salerscattle.com SPRING INTO ACTION with Motorola and Perth Communications From now until July 22/02 purchase selected Motorola two-way radios from Perth Communications, and Motorola will rebate you $50.00 for each one (maximum of 5 units) Choose from these Motorola models: Portables; SP21, SP50, SP50+, P1225, CT 150, CT250, CT450 Mobiles: SM50, SM 120, M1225 Some conditions apply. See store for details. © MOTOROLA Authorized Two -Way Radio Dealer PERTH _•r COMMUNICATIONS 400 Huron St., Stratford, ON N5A 5T5 Office (519) 273-3300 Toll Free 1-800-565-9983 Fax (519) 273-4111 MAY 2002 33