Field Signs
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Soybeans are one of Ontario’s most valuable crops, playing a vital role in both the local economy and sustainable farming practices. In Durham Region—especially in rural areas like Clarington, Scugog, and Uxbridge—soybeans are widely grown thanks to the Region’s fertile soil and ideal climate. As legumes, members of the bean family, soybeans naturally improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, making them excellent for crop rotation with corn and wheat. They are used in everyday items from tofu and soy milk to livestock feed and biodiesel, with a large portion exported globally.
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Durham’s soybean industry supports farm innovation, sustainability, and agri-tourism. Many local farms and markets feature soy-based products, and institutions like Durham College promote eco-friendly agriculture where soybeans are a key player. As global demand for plant-based foods and sustainable farming grows, soybeans are set to remain a cornerstone of Durham Region’s agricultural success.
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Soybeans are essential in modern agriculture—not just for human consumption, but also for supporting healthy farms and livestock. As a legume, soybeans naturally return nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This makes them a smart choice in crop rotation systems, helping farmers maintain soil health and improve yields for other crops, like corn and wheat.
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Beyond farm fields, soybeans are a major source of high-protein feed for animals. Once the oil is extracted, the remaining soybean meal becomes an energy-rich, digestible feed for cattle, pigs, and poultry. In Durham Region and across Ontario, soybean-based feed supports strong local livestock industries while keeping farm operations efficient and sustainable.
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Durham Region’s apple orchards have been a cornerstone of local agriculture for generations. The area’s unique microclimate—where cool lake breezes meet rich, well-drained soil—creates the perfect environment for apple trees to thrive. This means longer growing seasons and crisp, juicy apples that pack a punch in flavour and texture.
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Beyond just growing delicious apples, these orchards play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. The blooming apple trees attract bees and other pollinators, which are vital not only for apple production but also for the health of nearby crops and wild plants. Bees, in particular, are essential partners in pollination, enabling apple trees to produce fruit while supporting the reproduction of countless other plants.
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The apples themselves have endless uses. Fresh eating is just the start—Durham’s apple growers supply fruit for juices, ciders, baked goods, sauces, and even apple-based skincare products! On many farms, leftover or “imperfect” apples get turned into nutritious animal feed, reducing waste and supporting livestock. This creates a full-circle system where nothing goes unused.
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One of the most exciting ways people can connect with Durham’s apple culture is through the Durham Apple Trail. This seasonal event invites families, foodies, and nature lovers to explore charming orchards, sample fresh-pressed cider, pick their own apples, and enjoy festivals filled with apple-themed fun. The trail showcases farm tours, local artisan markets, and even cooking demos highlighting apples in everything from savoury dishes to sweet treats. It’s a fantastic way to support local farmers, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy the fresh air and vibrant fall colours of the Region.
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Wheat is one of the world’s oldest and most important cereal crops—and it's not just for toast and pasta! In the Durham Region, wheat plays a huge role in agriculture and supports both people and animals alike. Grown in golden fields that roll across the landscape, wheat is a staple crop for local farmers because it’s hardy, adaptable, and valuable. Whether it’s winter, wheat planted in the fall, or spring wheat sown after the frost melts, this grain thrives in Ontario’s soil and climate, making it a go-to crop for sustainability and profit.
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But wheat isn’t just for baking cookies (although, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty great use). It’s also a key player in the food chain. Wheat is ground into flour for human food, used in livestock feed to keep animals healthy and strong, and even in bedding for animals on farms. Plus, growing wheat helps maintain soil health, especially when rotated with other crops like soybeans or corn. For farmers in Durham, wheat isn’t just a crop—it’s a building block for strong communities, nutritious food, and a thriving rural economy. Whether it's feeding a family or fueling a farm, wheat truly is a golden grain!
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Wheat also supports the local economy in Durham Region through processing, transportation, and agri-business jobs. Once harvested, much of the wheat grown here is sent to local mills or exported, connecting Durham’s farms to both national and international markets. Research and innovation in agriculture, such as developing disease-resistant wheat varieties or more sustainable farming practices, are also growing in the Region, giving farmers better tools to succeed.
Educational programs and farm tours help connect city residents with the farming community, showcasing how something as simple as a slice of bread starts with the hard work of local growers. So the next time you enjoy a sandwich, remember that behind that fluffy bread is a whole network of wheat heroes making it happen!
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Corn is more than just a tasty summer treat — it's a superstar in the world of agriculture, especially in places like the Durham Region. Known as “maize” in many parts of the world, corn is one of the most versatile and widely grown crops on the planet. Farmers in the Durham Region grow corn not just for food, but also as a major source of animal feed, fuel (like ethanol), and even ingredients used in everyday products like toothpaste and biodegradable plastics. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of crops!
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Beyond its practical uses, corn also brings the community together in fun and meaningful ways. Local fairs and fall festivals often feature corn mazes, corn roasts, and even corn-themed games that highlight the Region's rich agricultural roots. Schools sometimes organize trips to farms where kids can learn how corn grows and why it’s so important — turning a simple stalk into a fun, hands-on lesson. It’s not just about farming; it’s about culture, education, and celebrating the land. In Durham Region, corn isn't just a crop — it's a symbol of community, sustainability, and good old-fashioned farm pride.
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In Durham, corn plays a huge role in supporting both people and animals. For local livestock farmers, corn silage (fermented corn plants) is a high-energy food that helps cows, pigs, and chickens stay healthy and productive. For people, sweet corn pops up at roadside stands and farmers’ markets all summer long — a sign that harvest season is in full swing. Corn farming also boosts the local economy, creating jobs in everything from planting and harvesting to transportation and food production. So, whether it's feeding families, fueling vehicles, or supporting four-legged friends, corn is truly golden in the Durham Region!
This project is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agri-Business (Rural Affairs)