Guelph Wellington Local Food is holding its fourth annual Wellington Rural Romp, a self-guided tour on Sept. 25 from 11am to 4pm
The Romp highlights local agriculture, and there are 23 farms and markets across the region that will open their doors to the public and provide special programs so people can learn about local agriculture.
This is an opportunity to meet local farmers and learn first hand about how local food is grown and raised.
“Farmers are choosing to work with nature and use farming practices that build up soil, reduce runoff, treat livestock humanely, and proudly produce safe, wholesome foods” said Deborah Simmonds, of White Rock Ostrich Farms.”
Connect to the land around you and taste ostrich, sample cheese, visit with highland cattle and more on the Wellington Rural Romp”
People can see a corn maze, guided tours, wagon rides, and children’s activities. They can learn about organic vegetable farming, sustainable production of pigs, sheep, cows, and elk, and the processing of goat and sheep milk.
The can taste artisanal cheese, walk through flower fields, taste test wine, and take in a barbecue. They will also get a chance to learn from local farmers about sustainable food and farming.
New this year is a photo contest, where participants can share their best pictures of the day to win a delicious prizes. Details about the photo contest can be found on the Guelph Wellington Local Food Website www.guelphwellingtonlocalfood.ca.
At each location there is a ballot to fill out to win valuable prizes, including numerous gift certificates to restaurants, farms and attractions around the region.
Information about the Rural Romp can be found on the 2010 Guelph Wellington Local Food Map. That map is available at all Guelph and Wellington libraries, tourism offices, and various retail locations.
More information can also be found at www.guelphwellingtonlocalfood.ca.
