On Wednesday June 16th the Ontario Farmland Trust hosted its Annual General Meeting. The meeting was held virtually (again!) this year due to COVID-19.
The meeting was overseen by Board Chair Bernard Pope, Secretary Megan Mills, and Treasurer Bethanee Jensen.
Following greetings, Bernard began the meeting by acknowledging the vital role that members, volunteers, and staff play in the protection of Ontario’s farmland. Bernard also focused on the strides that OFT has made in its mission of permanently protecting farmland forever, and looks forward to the exciting prospects for farmland protection in the coming year. Bernard also commended OFT’s efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, despite unprecedented challenges.
Next, Executive Director Kathryn Enders reviewed the progress OFT has made towards farmland protection in the past year by reviewing the 2020 Donor Impact Report, taking time to highlight the two new farms that were protected by farmland easement agreements in 2020, in an area of the province (Prince Edward County) where OFT had no other easements. Kathryn shared updates on the numerous new farmland protection efforts OFT is undertaking; many of include significant natural areas in addition to fertile farmland. In 2021, OFT looks forward to expanding farmland protection efforts as we continue to work with landowners who are passionate about protecting their farmland!
We would also like to extend our thanks to Mark Reusser, who has concluded his term on our Board of Directors after three terms and nine years of service. We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and expertise Mark has provided.
Thank you to everyone who attended, we look forward to seeing you next year!