News related to Rural Planning and Development

Over the years, Canada has accumulated many lessons learned when it comes to developing and implementing policies in rural areas. These lessons were shared with parliamentarians on June 6, 2017 when Dr. Ryan Gibson presented to the Scottish Parliamentary Cross Party Committee on Rural Policy. The presentation reflect on Canada’s rural policies and programs, what has worked, what has not worked, and what lessons emerged from the various experiences.

Professor Caldwell recently participated in a 'book launch event' at the Bookshelf on Wednesday, May 16th, 2017.  Burkhard Mausberg, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation (on the left) has released his book entitled "The Greenbelt - Protecting and Cultivating a Great Ontario Treasure". Dr.

The students of the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph announce the release of Studio Vantage ISSUE 1 - Paradox.  See attachment.  

What is the future role for the Government of Canada in rural infrastructure? Dr. Ryan Gibson presented to the Senate Committee on National Finance regarding rural infrastructure investment. The Senate Committee has been studying the design and delivery of the government’s infrastructure commitment, and has asked for comments to address the effects of future infrastructure investments on rural development in Canada.

Professor Sheri Longboat in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development will be among a panel of University of Guelph professors to join the Ontario Deputy Environmental Commissioner at the upcoming Hammond Lecture and Sustainability Symposium on Water Sustainability.

‎When: Wednesday April 19, 2017
Time: 2:00 to 5:00 pm
Where: Delta Inn Guelph, 50 Stone Road West

Please see attached advertisement for the event.

All are welcome to attend!

On March 15, 2017, researchers explored how you can use social media more effectively to engage your stakeholders and encourage knowledge mobilization between partners and colleagues. A six-person panel put a spotlight on some of the successful social media initiatives from across the country. The webinar included presentations from:

What does it mean to work for the public service? How does one search for a career in the public service? Thirteen graduate students from three SEDRD programs and two faculty members discussed careers in the public sector with Scott Duff at workshop on March 13, 2017.

Photo above:  Scott Duff (left), speaking to workshop participants.

Rural Planning and Development students recently visited Muskoka and met with planners, alumni and members of the public. Students visited with planners at the District and in Bracebridge, Gravenhurst and Port Carling. Seasonal development drives planning activity in this area. While there are huge development pressures for lakeshore development there are equally other challenges sustaining a year round economy.

Students recently participated in a one-day field trip to learn about Aboriginal education, both past and present, from First Nations perspectives. Through stories, teachings, and experiences, students gained insight into the complex history and legacy of federal Aboriginal education policy in Canada.

For much of rural Ontario, there is a struggle to retain existing population numbers.  With low birth rates, outmigration and an aging baby boom population there is a significant risk of population loss (and in many rural communities this is already happening).  The opportunity for rural communities is to increasingly attract immigrants.  Recent research identifies success stories from across the province and establishes best practices that can help rural communities to succeed in stabilizing, and potentially growing their population.