I am absolutely 100% OPPOSED…

I am absolutely 100% OPPOSED to this proposed Official Plan for Douro-Dummer. Not only will it stymie any future growth potential in our small hamlet, but it is an unrealistic interpretation of our area. #1: It is well known that the land in Douro has never and never will be a Prime agricultural area. My ancestors broke their backs to try to tame the rocky soil, and scoped out a meagre subsistence off of the land. I live next to the location of the Original Douro Homestead, now a horse farm - it grows hay...barely. I need to bring in soil to grow a tomato. #2 The only way to keep a strong agricultural community is to allow for RESIDENTIAL dwelling units to be created for posterity. All of my farmer friends run into the same issue. Mom and dad can't take care of the farm, but don't want to be pushed out of the homestead. They sever a lot and the farm is taken over by the next generation, and grandma and grandpa get to stay on the land. This Official Plan is going to force farms to sell to large conglomerates or China - who may not even purchase because the land isn't farmable for that type of mass produce - so our longstanding community will die. We are already suffering at the loss of our beloved grocery store - now this 25 year plan is squashing the last remaining hope we have to raise our children and pass on our
Douro may look like nothing on a map, but it has heart and deep roots - and this blanketing of the area as Prime agricultural must be defeated or it is the death of our community.