Durham students learn about agricultural science and farming in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Last week, more than 300 Durham high school students attended the Durham Farm Connections agri-science education day, held at Clarington Central Secondary School.

The agriculture education program is designed to align with curriculum requirements for Grade 9 and 10 science, Grade 11 biology and environmental science, and Grade 12 biology. Students attended the program for one class period (75 minutes) and rotated through agriculture-themed stations covering topics such as: soil and aquatic health, green energy, marketing and labelling for food products, and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Each station was also designed to encourage students to consider careers in the agri-business field, by making them aware of the career paths available in this multi-faceted industry.

“The annual Durham Farm Connections agri-science education day showcases one of Durham’s largest industries to the future generation. It is important to educate local students about the many economic, career and educational opportunities the agriculture sector provides within the region,” said Nancy Rutherford, Manager of Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Affairs for Durham Region. “We are grateful for the support from our local school boards, agricultural organizations, and the many volunteers that make the Durham Farm Connections high school program a success.”

Now in its ninth year, the Durham Farm Connections high school program is organized by volunteers and supported by Durham Region’s Planning and Economic Development Department. The program seeks to help students better understand their food supply, the environmental contributions of farming and the real-life application of science and technology in agriculture.

The high school program is an expansion of the Grade 3 Durham Farm Connections program, held annually since 2006, which also meets curriculum requirements by educating students about food and farming. In recognition of its success, Durham Farm Connections received a Premier’s Award for agri-food innovation excellence in 2007. For more information about Farm Connections, please visit durhamfarmconnections.ca.   

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