The McBride property encompasses approximately 79.69 acres of working agricultural land actively managed for hay production, pasture for livestock and poultry, and a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables. The farm’s soils include Class 1, Class 3, and Organic soils, all highly valued for agricultural productivity. In addition, 14.75 acres of forested and natural areas, including mature woodlots, planted forest, and swamp habitat, will also be conserved under the easement. The remaining protected acreage is designated as a Farmstead Area.
These natural areas support a wide variety of wildlife habitats and have been observed hosting several species at risk, including Barn Swallows, Eastern Wood-Pewees, Grasshopper Sparrows, Wood Thrush, and Monarch butterflies. The historic barn on the property also provides nesting habitat for Barn Swallows, further spotlighting the ecological value of conserving both agricultural and natural features on working farms.
Simcoe County is home to more than 1,800 farms and over 483,000 acres of farmland, making agriculture a significant contributor to the local economy and community well-being (Ontario Federation of Agriculture, 2024). However, farmland across Ontario continues to face loss and fragmentation; the province is losing hundreds of acres of farmland every day to non-agricultural land uses such as urban expansion and infrastructure development.
A permanent farmland easement on the McBride Farm ensures this land will remain productive farmland in perpetuity while safeguarding important natural features and wildlife habitat, even if the property is inherited or sold. Protecting farmland in Simcoe County supports local food systems, strengthens rural communities, and preserves essential ecological functions and benefits.
