New farm map helps you experience freshness York Region has to offer

'Thyme' to check out 2019 York Farm Fresh guide map

Yorkregion.com
July 8, 2019
Sabrina Seyidova

Fresh food never looked so good.

It’s "thyme" to check out the new 2019 York Farm Fresh Guide Map for local and fresh produce across York Region.

The map lists 33 farms, eight farmers markets and 26 food-related events as well as seasonal availability for fruits and vegetables.

York Farm Fresh, founded in 2017, is a non-profit organization that promotes local food growth and production across York Region.

Imported fruits and vegetables can have an environmental impact, said Tony Corkovic with York Region’s Economic Strategy.

"When you buy local, you get fresh, delicious products with reduced impact on the environment. We call this a win-win,” he said.

Paolo Lavalle at Elm Grove Farm in Georgina.

Paolo Lavalle adjusts a sign at Elm Grove Farm in Georgina. Steve Somerville/Torstar

Many people have concerns about how food is grown, said Tammi Taylor, York Farm Fresh co-ordinator.

“Going to farms allows them to speak to the farmers directly about the produce. It builds a connection to food,” she said.

In York Region, primary agricultural production generates $552 million in economic impact and provides more than 3,500 jobs.

In broader terms: anything from farms to food processors and grocery stores provides around 57,000 jobs and contributes to $2.7 billion in GDP.

“When you eat local, you support more than 700 farms in York Region,” said Corkovic. “Buying local, supports the economy by creating more jobs and supporting the community,” he added.

Paolo Lavalle at Elm Grove Farm in Georgina

Paolo Lavalle works in his garlic, onion, cauliflower and cabbage garden patch at Elm Grove Farm in Georgina. Steve Somerville/Torstar

York Farm Fresh is also renewing last year’s Passport to Fresh contest encouraging everyone to visit as many farms on the map for a chance to win a $250 Thanksgiving Harvest Basket.

With every farm visited, receive a stamp on Farm Fresh passport. Every five farms visited is one entry ballot in the harvest basket draw.

Monthly winners will be announced in July, August and September, with the grand prizewinner announced Oct. 7.

The York Farm Fresh Map offers visits to farms, farmers markets and food events and fairs all across York Region.

For more details, to access the York Farm Fresh Guide Map and passports visit yorkfarmfresh.com.