Farms at Work is excited to share that we’ve secured a farm site on the south edge of Peterborough in collaboration with a local landowner and farmer! We’re envisioning a new kind of shared growing space —a Community Farm designed to improve access to farmland while fostering collaboration, learning, and innovation. Currently in the planning stages, this initiative will create a hub with opportunities for community members, aspiring farmers, and local groups to grow food, build skills, and explore small-scale farm business ideas.
Our vision includes dedicated plots for hands-on learning, access to shared infrastructure such as greenhouse and cold storage spaces, mentorship and a welcoming environment where ecological farming practices can take root. The Community Farm is grounded in our commitment to building secure and resilient community food systems.
In 2025 and early 2026, we created a Case for Support that pulled together our research and community consultation over the past decade. Our thanks to Community Futures Peterborough, Peterborough County Economic Development, and Jamey Coughlin for their support. You can read the Executive Summary HERE.
In April 2026, we hired our Community Farm Planner, Andrea Hicks, to lead us through the next stage of developing detailed plans for education, mentoring, acquiring capital infrastructure and embarking on a more formal intake of participants for the 2027 season.
We’re actively engaging with community organizations, local food leaders, and aspiring growers to help shape direction. This early-stage collaboration will be key to ensuring that the Community Farm reflects a broad range of local needs, knowledge, and priorities. We are also fortunate to be working with the Just Food Farm in Ottawa and other organizations across the province who are providing advice and guidance.
Stay tuned for a chance to visit the Farm site later this year!
As we move forward with this important and exciting initiative, we want to hear from you! If you or a group you’re involved with can imagine yourself growing, learning, or collaborating on the Community Farm, we invite you to fill out the interest form below. It’s the best way to stay informed and help guide the future of this shared space.
