Vertical Farming

Vertical Farming in Durham Region

Agribusiness is a key employment sector in Durham Region, one of the most vibrant, diverse and fastest growing communities in Ontario. In Durham Region, we believe in fresh and local food options. Our farmers are known for their modern technology; state-of-the-art farming practices; research and innovation; and effective distribution of goods.

Durham Region is home to 101 farms that focus on greenhouse, nursery and floriculture (flowers) production—employing about 700 people in a total space of 1.3 million square feet. Durham has a larger share of the industry (7.6 per cent) than the Ontario average (4.1 per cent).

Agri-innovation

Innovative farming is changing the face of Durham’s future. Sustainability, partnerships and innovative thinking allow our farmers to deliver fresh, local food—regardless of the season. It’s a valuable industry. And, we want to see it grow.

We value agriculture. And we understand that an investment in this sector can help us attract and incubate agri-research and other innovative businesses. With these investments, Durham Region could be an undisputed leader in technologies and industries—contributing to an innovative 21st century global economy.

Vertical farming provides us with the chance to utilize our partnerships within the farming community. It offers an outlet to showcase state-of-the-art practices, industry research and innovation. And, it would allow us to further adapt to a changing climate.

Changes to the agriculture sector are providing new employment opportunities in robotics, programming and data analytics. Partnerships with Durham’s post-secondary institutions will support the new and growing needs of our agri-businesses.

Visit our Local Food directory.

Vertical Farming

Vertical farming allows for farmers to grow fresh food year-round. Through vertical farming stacked layers, farmers can use less water, reduce pesticides, and continue a focus on sustainability. Growers produce products via humidity and temperature control; artificial lighting (sometimes mixed with natural light); roots misted with water (rather than saturation); and monitoring of nutrients and fertilizers.

Investors are interested in this innovative option. And, while vertical farming currently requires more up-front investment, it does permit farmers to grow large amounts of produce in a shorter amount of time, and year-round. Vertical farming uses less land for food production. Incorporating vertical farming into existing traditional farm operations allows producers to increase yield and diversify their business, all while producing fresh, healthy food for residents.

Indoor and Vertical Farming in Durham Region

The greenhouse/indoor farming business is thriving in Durham Region:

Greenwood Mushroom Farm: Located in Ashburn and Port Perry, Greenwood is one of the largest mushroom producers in Canada. Greenwood has 315,000 square feet across two locations.
Rekkers Garden Centre: Located in Bowmanville, Rekkers operates with approximately 120,000 square feet. Of note, Rekkers grows 150,000 poinsettias annually to supply across Ontario.
Mighty Harvest Produce: Located in Oshawa, this new vertical farm business grows fresh leafy greens and herbs, and sells directly to consumers.

Durham College Centre for Food

The Durham College Centre for Food (CFF) is an inspiring story. The College grows produce, on site, for use in its culinary programs, kitchens, laboratories and restaurant. About 50 to 99 employees help to make it successful, including 13 farming faculty/part-time lecturers.

Complemented by traditional farming operations, the CFF uses a 20 x 30 hoop house and passive solar greenhouse to lengthen production season and allow for winter harvesting. They are developing a vertical farming system for leafy greens and salad mixes that can produce up to 700 heads of a lettuce a week. The team is exploring the use of aquaponics to grow fish and herbs (basil, parsley and cilantro).

Partnerships

Durham Regional Council endorsed the Durham Region Food Charter in 2009. Through this charter, we can advocate for the future and well-being of our residents. It’s about developing a sustainable local system; policies and programs that are innovative, inclusive and comprehensive. We rely on the input from our partners on the Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee. We depend on our strong partnerships with local agencies, such as Durham Farm Fresh, help to make it possible.