In The Hills Summer 2026

www.tumber.ca www.tumber.ca

32 ON YOUR MARKS

Ever consider running for office?

Here’s a guide to get you to the October 26 municipal election BY BETHANY LEE

37 ONTARIO’S CONSERVATION SYSTEM

FACES A MAJOR OVERHAUL

By next spring, 36 conservation authorities are slated to be folded into nine with potential ripple effects across the Headwaters region BY EMILY

DICKSON

Our 2026 map and guide to the best local produce, meat and craft beverages at farms across the region 44 THE STING, THE SPRAY, THE SAP AND THE SPINE

Plants and animals from nettles and poison ivy to ants and porcupines rely on physical and chemical defences to stay alive BY DON

SCALLEN

71 BLOOMING DELICIOUS

Garden-inspired flatbread and local flavours anchor an easy summer spread BY

ELAINE LI AND TRALEE PEARCE

51 HEADWATERS FARM FRESH GUIDE

EMILY DICKSON

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER

Tralee Pearce

ASSOCIATE

EDITORS

Dyanne Rivers

Emily Dickson

ART DIRECTOR

Kim van Oosterom

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Erin Fitzgibbon

VOLUME 33 NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2026

WRITERS

Bethany Lee

Alison McGill

Dan Needles

Janice Quirt

Tony Reynolds

Don Scallen

Roberta Fracassi

Victoria Johansen

Cindy Dillman

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION

Marion Hodgson

Anna Galati

Rosemary Hasner

Pete Paterson

Kerri Torrey

ILLUSTRATORS

Shelagh Armstrong

Ruth Ann Pearce

Jim Stewart

ON OUR COVER

A leafy oasis by Erin Fitzgibbon – see page 86.

FOUNDING

Signe Ball

Janet Kerr

DIGITAL EDITORS

Elaine Li

Barbara Fletcher

DESIGN INTERN

Jaxon Wakeford

In The Hills is published quarterly by MonoLog Communications Inc. It is distributed through controlled circulation to households in the towns of Caledon, Erin, Orangeville, Shelburne, Creemore and Dufferin County.

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The ad booking deadline for the autumn (September) issue is Friday, July 31, 2026.

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Building a Better Future Through Wealth and Security

Growing up in a household where life revolved around our family’s financial services business, First Capital Financial, I came to understand early on the importance of money in people’s lives. Not as an end in itself, but as a means to an end – financial security and the peace of mind that comes with that. I saw how my Dad helped his clients with their money, allowing them to return their focus to things that really mattered to them – like family, friends, faith, health and hobbies. So the financial world wasn’t really about money, but about people

This understanding was key to my decision to pursue a degree in Integrated Business and Humanities at McMaster University. The program combined my two passions, and taught me that capitalism contributes to social well-being through innovation, employment and wealth. So businesses exist to serve people, not the other way around. People first, in other words, and this begins with financial literacy for everyone.

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HADLEY-IRVINE

CLOSE TO HOME

Summer seems to be bursting through the door all at once this year, Kramer-style. The sunshine is sending taller, lusher, better-smelling spring stalwarts – lilacs, magnolias and lily-of-the-valley – crashing into each other’s timelines. Blink and the peonies will be over.

I’m not complaining; the floral frenzy fits my mood because earlier this spring, while it was still dark and rainy, I learned that an In The Hills story had been nominated for a National Magazine Award in the service journalism writing category. (The award winners will be announced in June, days after the magazine goes to press.)

Congratulations to In The Hills contributor Alison McGill, who was nominated for her summer 2025 article “In Fine Feather,” a lively guide to raising backyard chickens. Alison’s piece covered everything from the perfect coop size to just how cuddly a Plymouth Rock can be.

I’d also like to thank longtime In The Hills photographer Pete Paterson, whose photos accompanied the story and beautifully captured the personalities of its feathered (and human) subjects.

What pleased me most about this announcement wasn’t simply that a story from In The Hills was recognized nationally. It was that the nominated story was so distinctly local.

The piece opens with two East Garafraxa sisters begging their parents to get chickens and broadens into a portrait of a growing rural-suburban phenomenon. Alison’s curiosity led her to touch on food, self-sufficiency, family life, local bylaws and connections to the land – themes that resonate across Canada while remaining firmly in Headwaters.

You’ll find similar themes throughout this issue, whether Alison and her colleagues are exploring local conservation issues, helping readers prepare for this year’s municipal election – in this case, those considering running and those curious about what it takes to run –or simply introducing you to fascinating people who live and work in these hills.

Speaking of fascinating people, a special thank you goes to Amy Ouchterlony of Mulmur’s Fiddle Foot Farm, who shared her thoughts on the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer to anchor our annual Headwaters Farm Fresh Guide, produced in partnership with Headwaters Food and Farming Alliance.

Stories on women in agriculture, backyard chickens, conservation authorities, municipal elections and a guide to finding the best local produce have a lot in common. Each reflects the choices communities make about food, land, growth and stewardship. Those conversations are shaping the future of Headwaters, and they remind us that some of the most important stories begin close to home.

MEET THREE OF THE MAGAZINE’S CLEVER CONTRIBUTORS –BARBARA FLETCHER, JAXON WAKEFORD AND DAN NEEDLES

Barbara Fletcher

As In The Hills’ newest digital editor, Barbara Fletcher’s main focus is the digital-first News Desk.

Barbara has more than 25 years of experience as an editor, writer and content producer in newsrooms including the Sympatico/MSN, Yahoo! and Shaw national portals, and OZY Media. Recently she worked for Al Jazeera as a features and news desk editor. To In The Hills Barbara brings a blend of news journalism and features reporting, and a love of vibrant and genuine storytelling about people and the landscapes, arts and communities they connect us to.

Barbara lives in Fergus, having recently returned after 25 years in London, Ontario, and Toronto. An outdoors enthusiast, she can often be found hiking the Bruce Trail and other trails in Headwaters conservation areas – and snapping photos along the way.

Jaxon Wakeford

As part of his graphic design program at Centennial College, Jaxon Wakeford recently joined In The Hills as a design intern. He worked on both the print magazine and digital platforms, saying he gained valuable behind-the-scenes insights, and expanded his creative and technical skills while connecting with the strong sense of community the magazine fosters.

Jaxon moved to Orangeville when he was six and has lived here ever since, “so I’ve gotten a chance to see quite a few In The Hills issues over the years.” He has also been teaching ice skating with the Town of Orangeville since he was 16. He enjoys travelling, exploring photography, and diving into any book he can get his hands on. We thank Jaxon for his dedication and hard work, and wish him well as he graduates!

Dan Needles

Since 2012, Dan Needles’ humour column, Fence Posts, has chronicled the charms and challenges of rural life with wit and insight. A resident of Nottawa, Dan often sets his writing in the fictional Persephone Township, a stand-in for Shelburne and Mono, where he spent his formative years. A celebrated Canadian playwright and author, he is best known for his Wingfield Farm series of stage plays, which have been performed on virtually every English-speaking stage across the country.

Dan’s more recent work includes his 2023 book Finding Larkspur: A Return to Village Life. His latest play, Marsh Marigolds, described as an “agricultural thriller,” features longtime collaborator Rod Beattie. In his latest column, “Pop’s Food Guide,” Dan reminisces about his father, who lived to the age of 97 despite a penchant for Swiss Chalet and other oft-maligned foods.

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A navigation situation

We live on the 22 Side Road in Halton. We have challenges and then some [“Why Is It So Hard for Map Apps to Get Rural Addresses Right?”, spring ’26]. I just learned that 22 Side Road has “become” 22 Siderd, which eludes delivery companies, CAA and everyone else. For friends, their email comes with a map and my cell phone number. Enjoyed your article and the mag, of course! — Doug Biggar, Halton

I enjoyed Tony Reynolds’ article on the naming of country roads [“Country Roads, Take Me Home,” spring ’26]. It was good to see the role of Hurontario Street highlighted. I grew up in Mono Township at a time when (1950s–60s) almost everyone who lived there called Hurontario Street the Centre Road. In recent years I’ve come to understand that the name likely originated in Peel County. For example, the 1937 edition of Perkins Bull’s historical map of Peel County lists Highway 10 as formerly known as both Hurontario Street and the Centre Road. The latter usage makes sense there. In both the old Chinguacousy and Caledon Townships, the road evenly divided the 6 concessions EHS (east of Hurontario Street) from the 6 concessions WHS (west of Hurontario Street), making it indeed the Centre Road. — Alan Buchanan, Meaford

Two notes of thanks from local makers

I want to let writer Janice Quirt, editor Dyanne Rivers and photographer Pete Paterson know how many compliments I am receiving for the recent article [“A Spin on Community,” spring ’26]. Neighbours, friends and relatives have responded with positive feedback. It is often accompanied by, “I didn’t know that about you before,” or “I don’t understand the technicalities, but ....”

There are many compliments on the photos as well! With the low light levels, I was surprised at how well the photos turned out. They have said you captured my very essence in both words and photos. I let each person with whom I speak or write directly know what a delight it was for me to be able to spend the time together that we did, and how hard-working each of you is, in order for us to enjoy our local In The Hills magazine.

With much appreciation, and happily spinning along. — Darlene Hostrawser, Mono

Just wanted to reach out and say thank you for the article [“Made in The Hills,” spring ’26]. I really loved how this article shined a spotlight on small and local makers. — Andrea Rideout, Lavish Earth, Grand Valley

Recycling woes

We welcome your comments! For more reader commentary, or to add your own thoughts on any of the stories appearing in this issue, please visit inthehills.ca. You can also send your letters by email to tralee@inthehills.ca. Include your name, address and contact information. In The Hills reserves the right to edit letters for publication.

I live on a rural road 600 feet back from the road –all uphill. I am a single senior woman in my seventies. Just how does the province expect me to get this bin to the road? [“The Battle of the Blue Bins,” March 10, 2026, inthehills.ca] One has to wonder who would make such a badly thought out, inconsiderate and thoughtless decision on how to spend our tax dollars. This is NOT service. — Deborah Shortill, Mono

Clockwise from top left • Below the Surface: smoke-fired raku clay and wild-foraged clay slip, 7" x 12" x 5"

A Fine Balance: white and red pine needles, waxed linen thread, ethically-foraged barbed wire, 8" x 11"

New Beginnings: stoneware, dyed reed, dried curly grasses, paper string, 20" x 17" • “Bowl”der: granite stoneware, glaze, 7" x 5"

JAMILA MONAHAN

In Jamila Monahan’s hands, traditional ceramics and contemporary basketry meet in vessels that feel quietly alive. They’re inspired by a life lived across contrasting landscapes, from her childhood in England’s Cotswolds to summers along Georgian Bay and now, her home in Glen Huron, with the Niagara Escarpment as companion. “Using ethically sourced and foraged materials, my work blurs the boundary between functional object and fine art, inviting a slower, more attentive relationship with the natural world,” she says. In many pieces, Monahan adds foraged and local clays – a mineral signature of home. In her recent creations, structure and softness coexist as an exploration of nature’s ability to adapt and endure, she says. “Through this work, I seek to make visible the quiet persistence of the land and the urgent need to protect what remains.” www.jamilamonahan.com

GET IN TUNE WITH SUMMER, SEARCH FOR NOCTURNAL CREATURES AND WATCH TOP-NOTCH CANINES COMPETE

BY EMILY DICKSON

A summer music bucket list

Hockley folk fatales Divka, comprising Alina Kuzma on the esoteric Ukrainian harp and Zoë Santo on the viola, bring their hauntingly delicate yet powerful Eastern European folk songs to the historic Corbetton Church at the Museum of Dufferin in Mulmur on July 3. With a wild energy and ethereal vocals, Divka wows audiences near and far with their rebellious take on Ukrainian and global women’s musicmaking traditions. Not to be missed.

Canadian Celtic rockers Mudmen, known for their fun-loving performances with bagpipes and all, take to the stage at the Creemore Village Green on July 19. Creemore’s summer-long Sundays in the Park concert series is free to the community, with different bands every week.

And according to Jacquelyn Garrard, owner of Erin Hill Acres, hearing The Practically Hip in concert is a surreal experience. “Close your eyes and you’ll swear Gord and the boys are right there in front of you, belting out every iconic anthem you grew up with,” says Garrard. Catch this Tragically Hip tribute band on the farm’s Courtyard Stage on August 15.

FESTIVAL FUN

The village of Creemore’s Summer Solstice will transform Main Street into a hub of warm-weather worshippers on June 19 with a performance by the Creemore Drumming Collective, line dancing, live music, and festive floral crowns by the Creemore Horticultural Society. The event runs until 10 p.m.

And renowned Canadian country music star Brett Kissel headlines Caledon Day on June 20. Kissel has won three Juno awards and 23 Canadian Country Music Association awards. Swifties should not miss the high-energy Taylor Swift Tribute Band opening act. There’s also a full-day itinerary of family activities, vendors and a fireworks finale to finish the night.

NASHVILLE COMES TO ORANGEVILLE

The Nashville Takeover touches down in Orangeville from July 10 to 12 with three nights of intimate country performances. Held in multiple venues over the weekend, the event is based on the style of Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe where audiences sit just steps away from the songwriters and witness creators in action.

Event founder Scotty James is an award-winning Canadian country singer from Waterloo whose breakout hit “Wanna Be Loved” climbed the Canadian charts in 2011. The artist roster is secret, by tradition, he says. “We don’t release the lineup, so you only find out who they are when they walk on stage,” says Scott, who lived in Nashville for five years.

“This creates that organic feeling of stumbling into a Nashville songwriters’ bar and discovering three artists that you’ve never heard of before.”

Over the weekend, 15 Canadian and American songwriters will perform acoustic sets of country, Americana, pop and folk music. Venues include Barley Vine Rail Co., the Taphouse and the fittingly named Bluebird Café and Grill. Orangeville was just one of 13 towns in Canada to be selected for this year’s Nashville Takeover after last year’s launch in Collingwood and Port Stanley.

SUMMER ART NEWS

Museum of Dufferin’s Home & Heritage photography exhibition features 30 photographers who share their powerful images of what “home” means to them, each reflecting different cultural perspectives. On until September 26.

The historic Alton Mill dam is the star of new outdoor banners at the Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives in Brampton. Toronto photographer Risa Horowitz captured the soft, cascading waterfall, located next to the Alton Mill Arts Centre, using a direct positivepinhole technique and special photographic paper instead of film. A lifelong fan of rivers and ravines, Horowitz says the image is “an expression of care for, and responsibility towards, the people and places I love.”

GOLF ‘ FORE ’ A GOOD CAUSE

Tee off for the Headwaters Health Care Foundation at the annual Headwaters Golf Classic on June 22, held at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon. This year golfers have access to two courses for a full day of golf, food, a silent auction, prizes and a cocktail reception – all to raise funds for the hospital’s emergency department expansion. Another golf heads-up: Osprey’s new 30,000-square-foot 18-hole Community Putting Green is now open to the public at no cost.

The launch of the new Erin Arts Festival brings community creativity to Erin’s Main Street on June 20 where multiple artists will paint en plein air, followed by a juried art show. There’s also a photography exhibition, quilt displays and a children’s arts space in McMillan Park, plus live music, a beer tent and vendors.

You can try making your own masterpiece at Purple Hill Lavender Farm’s idyllic Paint in the Fields experience, where a professional artist will guide you step-by-step while surrounded by an endless sea of lavender. This outdoor paint-and-sip event has multiple dates in June and July.

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Creatures of the night

Forget bedtime. When darkness falls, it’s prime time to head into the forest to catch a glimpse of nocturnal critters. On June 26 outdoor education instructor Aundrea Schneider hosts Glow and Behold: A Night of Moth Discovery at the Mansfield Outdoor Centre.

“Entomology – the study of insects – is my lifelong passion,” Schneider says. “I love insects, science and biology, and learning about things that typically go unnoticed.” To allow the group to find and observe moths along the 2-kilometre trail, she sets up a simple but effective observation station: a white sheet strung between two trees, illuminated by a UV bulb that draws in nocturnal insects.

The sighting possibilities: A striking pink-and-yellow rosy maple moth Schneider fondly describes as “a cute little fuzzy thing” – along with the cecropia moth, which is North America’s largest, and the giant silk moth. To attract these bigger moths who aren’t turned on by UV light, she smears nearby trees with a concoction of mushed ripe banana, stale beer, rum and molasses, which she admits is “gross, but effective.”

Because the event runs from 8 to 11 p.m., most participants are adults, though kids are also welcome. “It’s fun learning about things most people don’t get to see,” Schneider says. “There are thousands of moth species in Ontario – many that haven’t been recorded yet – but you have to be out late enough to encounter them.” How late does Schneider stay up? “Late,” she laughs. “I’ll often still be out there at 2 a.m.”

THE REEL DEAL

Kids can learn to fish this summer with the Fishing Friendzy Foundation, a non-profit run by experienced anglers passionate about mentoring kids on the basics of fishing, as well as water safety and a respect for nature. The foundation’s Youth Fishing Leagues for ages 5 to 16, described as a “house league” for fishing, will be held at Ken Whillans Conservation Area in Caledon and Island Lake Conservation Area in Orangeville, with sessions in June and July. fishingfriendzy.com

BIG FUN AT THE BIG TOP

Canada’s Circus Spectacular will thrill the crowds at the Alder Street Recreation Centre with its Circus Rocks tour, a high-energy performance with aerial acts, classic clowning around, motorcycle globe daredevils, acrobats and jugglers. The circus is in town for two shows on June 23. circusspectacular.com

A DECADE IN BLOOM

Ten years ago, a team of volunteers began transforming a one-acre plot on Hockley Road into the Mono Pollinator Garden, a lush landscape of flowering perennials that attracts bees and other pollinating critters. Join the team on June 21 for the 10th anniversary event, Celebrating a Decade in Bloom, to tour the garden, learn about pollinator-friendly gardening, and try a family scavenger hunt.

WHO’S AFRAID OF A LITTLE DIRT?

Embark on a 6-kilometre obstacle course of muddy mayhem as Mud Hero, one of Canada’s largest obstacle races, arrives at Albion Hills Conservation Park on August 22. Obstacles include traversing mud pits and trenches, climbing monkey bars, going down slides and crawling up rope walls. Hardcore mudders can opt for a more difficult 10-kilometre race. Expect to be covered

Intense. Focused. Driven. These are the dogs, and their handlers, who will compete from July 30 to August 2, at the Orangeville Fairgrounds in this year’s Canadian German Shepherd Dog Championships and Sieger Show

Hosted jointly by the Amaranth-based Saugeen Schutzhund Club, one of the oldest Canadian schutzhund clubs (schutzhund is German for “protection dog”), and the Oneida Working Dog Club, located on the Oneida Nation of the Thames Settlement, the German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of Canada’s IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshunde Prüfungsordnung) championships test working breeds in three phases: tracking, obedience and protection. The sieger show rates the conformation and temperament of German shepherd dogs.

Dog-handler teams will have already proven their mettle at regional championships across the country, and the top German shepherds will go on to represent Canada at this year’s WUSV (Weltunion der Schäferhundvereine) World Championships in Nova Gorica, Slovenia. And the top dogs of any breed qualify to compete at international IGP events run by organizations such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Vendors of all things dog will be on hand, and food and beverages will be available. gssccnational2026.ca —with files from Dyanne Rivers

POP ’ S FOOD GUIDE

BY DAN NEEDLES • ILLUSTRATION BY SHELAGH ARMSTRONG

MY FATHER DIED ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO AT the age of 97. There was never anything wrong with him until he had a heart attack the week before Christmas and ended up in the hospital. When I drove down to visit him in Stratford, I brought him a quarter chicken dinner, but the nurse brought me up short. “He’s on a salt-free diet,” she informed me. “Really?” I said. “He’s been eating at Swiss Chalet since it opened in 1954.”

The nurse put a weary hand to her brow. “I can’t believe I said that. Give him the chicken.”

By this point, Pop had outlived quite a few doctors and several rewrites of Canada’s food guide. Not that he would have read it. He smoked into his 60s and the last time he broke into a trot was sometime during the Second World War. His favourite beverage was a vodka tonic.

But he was fascinated by his own health. He came down with Spanish flu as a baby in 1919 and never felt entirely well again his whole life. He listened to every pop and gurgle his body made, and the only hobby he ever took an interest in, besides his tropical birds, was seeking out specialists to find out what was wrong with him. His ailments moved like the news cycle for healthy eating. He would give up each prescription within a few days as some new ailment captured his attention. As a stage actor for 65 years, he had played many death scenes, and he could be quite convincing. When I pointed out to him that he had done very well to make 97, he said, “It’s because I’ve been vigilant. You never know what can happen!” He was right. Another heart attack snuck up on

him a couple of weeks later after Christmas and he was gone. At his funeral, the secret to long life was a popular subject. A number of people were talking about the latest news from the U.S. government suggesting saturated fats are not the problem and that cholesterol levels, good, bad or indifferent, are not a predictor of anything. It seems everything we’ve been told by the experts for the last 35 years is suspect. Well, not really. A careful sifting of the literature

Pop smoked into his 60s and the last time he broke into a trot was sometime during the Second World War. His favourite beverage was a vodka tonic.

says that the food writer Michael Pollan probably got it right years ago when he told us to eat stuff your grandmother would recognize as food, from around the outside edges of a supermarket … not too much and mostly plants.

In spite of his constant state of vigilance, Pop ate pretty much what he liked and had no political views on food. Local, organic, sustainable, fair trade … it was all white noise to him, like the hum of the air conditioner. He didn’t send away for herbal tonics or watch Dr. Oz. The only two adjectives he ever used in connection with food were complaints that it was slow arriving or expensive.

I think one of his secrets, apart from his sturdy genetics and the long walks he took every day with his dog, was that he hated to eat alone. He didn’t cook anything himself, but he always had a house guest who could at least boil soup. And soup, according to the experts, is better for you than a carload of miracle supplements from a shady Kansas City mail-order house.

Here at Larkspur Farm, we gather around a table laden with the fruits of the season, a lot of it from our own garden or the orchard. There is always a platter of beef, pork, chicken or lamb from the barnyard. But the key ingredient is good company, something that the ancients insisted was essential to good health.

Pop once told me a war story about supervising a crew of Kanaks, the original inhabitants of the Pacific island of New Caledonia, as they moved logs through a swamp. At the end of each day, they would take him back to their village and sit him down to a meal of fish, rice and taro root. His hosts laughed when he threw his K-rations into the centre. He remembered the laughter and the stories and the songs of those tropical evenings and realized it was one of the few times during the war that he wasn’t homesick or scared. By now it should be obvious that all this effort we expend in the search for healthy food serves us best when we share it with others. It may not make us live any longer, but it certainly helps us feel better about the fact we are alive.

Humorist and playwright Dan Needles lives on a small farm in Nottawa.

ON YOUR MARKS!

Ever considered running for office? Here’s a guide to get you to the October 26 municipal election.

BY BETHANY LEE

The race is on. If you’re interested in running for council, regional council, school trustee, mayor or deputy mayor in the forthcoming municipal election in your town, township or region, it’s time to declare your intention. Nominations, which opened May 1, run until August 21. Why run for municipal government?

Of all three political levels – municipal, provincial and federal – it arguably has the most direct impact on daily lives. Municipalities, counties and regions oversee roads and bridges, emergency and waste management services, parks and recreation, libraries, property taxes and building permits. These responsibilities and powers are governed by the province, primarily through the Municipal

Act, 2001, to ensure that services are delivered safely, equitably and in accordance with community needs.

“Putting yourself forward to represent your neighbours on town council is one of the most significant ways that you can serve your community,” says Jennifer Payne, the executive director of Headwaters Communities in Action. HCIA is a local non-profit community organization that works with local governments and residents to promote civic engagement through projects including Volunteer Dufferin and community grants.

Payne adds: “Communities thrive when people engage where they live. When you volunteer, help a neighbour, join a club, buy local, support charities

and participate in elections, you strengthen your community.”

If you’re curious what it takes, here’s a start.

Are you eligible?

First, you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements. To hold office as a councillor or mayor, you must be at least 18 years old and a Canadian citizen. You must be a resident, a nonresident owner or a tenant of land in the municipality, or the spouse of a non-resident owner or tenant who is eligible to vote. (For more information, see sidebar page 34.)

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can start the process of filing your registration. You’ll

need to be endorsed by 25 eligible electors in the municipality and pay a nomination fee – commonly $100 for councillor and school trustees and $200 for mayor. Registrations must be certified by the municipal clerk before campaigning can begin.

Where you can run and what for

The In The Hills coverage area includes the towns of Caledon, Erin, Grand Valley, Mono, Orangeville and Shelburne, and the townships of Amaranth, East Garafraxa, Melancthon and Mulmur. These municipalities belong to three different upper-tier governments: Peel Region, Wellington County and Dufferin County. How representatives reach those upper-tier councils varies from place to place.

In Caledon, in addition to voting for mayor and one of six local ward councillors, citizens vote for one of two regional ward councillors who will represent them at Peel Region.

Dufferin County’s council is made up of all mayors and deputy mayors elected in the eight town and townships within it – and that group votes on the council leader, called a warden. Erin’s mayor is the town’s only representative at Wellington County council.

In addition to positions on councils, residents can also run for school board trustee positions during municipal elections. Trustees are members of the school board, and act as a key link between local communities and the school board. Trustees are elected every four years during municipal elections. They bring issues and concerns of their communities to discussions and decision-making tables, and thus have an important role working in partnership with school councils and families, communicating decisions and advocating for public education within the community.

Brush up on municipal government

While you’re campaigning, consider educating yourself about how things will work once you’re elected to office.

This can help you refine your talking points and avoid pitfalls such as overpromising.

“A strong local government depends on a clear distinction between governance and administration,” according to the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators’ publication Your Local Government: A Resident’s Guide to Services, Roles & Good Governance. Members of the council are elected to represent the public interest, and the council as a body provides governance leadership by setting policies and passing budgets and bylaws. The council – not individual councillors –

these powers and has used them on numerous occasions. Many mayors, including Orangeville’s Lisa Post, have limited or rejected the use of these powers.

No one is saying it’s easy

There are several potential barriers to running for an elected role in municipal government that can hold potential candidates back.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s report, Mapping the Experiences of Diverse Candidates Running for Municipal Office in

‘Communities thrive when people engage where they live. When you volunteer, help a neighbour, join a club, buy local, support charities and participate in elections, you strengthen your community.’

JENNIFER PAYNE HEADWATERS COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

makes decisions and sets policies. Individuals can’t single-handedly make changes – such as directing staff on which roads or bridges to fix or deciding what areas of town should be plowed first.

The day-to-day work of municipal governments is carried out by municipal employees – who do not report to council. Only the chief administrative officer or the clerk, in some smaller governments, reports to council.

One exception to a single elected official being able to directly enact changes? The mayor, if they have been granted and decide to use the “strong mayor powers” set out by the Ford government’s Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022.

Strong mayor powers grant a mayor additional authority to direct certain staff functions, budget preparation, and organizational structure. Caledon Mayor Annette Groves was granted

Ontario, found that these barriers include having limited networks and social connections, financial and time constraints. Balancing job and family obligations with your political aspirations can be tricky.

In small rural communities, salary can also be a barrier: It’s low pay for high commitment. Remuneration, which is determined by each council, tends to be low – the equivalent of part-time pay for often more than full-time work. For example, the annual salary for an Orangeville councillor for the 2026–2030 term is approximately $43,000 – an increase from an average of approximately $32,000 over the previous 15 years.

In 2024, councillors and the mayor in Amaranth received approximately $14,000 and $25,000 annually, including per diem compensation, mileage and conference expenses.

Mental health is also a considera-

tion. Candidates (and elected representatives) often face discrimination, bullying and harassment.

Thankfully, there are several organizations and resources aimed at easing these barriers and pointing out the personal and societal benefits to overcoming them.

Resources to help break down barriers

Many of these barriers are compounded for people from under-represented groups, so many helpful resources are focused on improving transparency about government roles and expectations, diversity and inclusion.

“Representation isn’t about holding a seat. It’s about keeping the door open,” says Andrea Clarke, a parttime deputy judge and former deputy mayor of Kincardine who works with a group called ElectHER Now. “When women choose to step forward, we turn policies into people, silence into understanding and closed rooms into spaces where every voice, every family and every reality finally belongs.”

ElectHER Now is composed of current and former elected officials and volunteers in Grey Bruce working to increase the number of women elected to office in their area. Although their focus is Grey Bruce, ElectHER Now provides resources for all women who want to run for council. “Local government shapes the communities where we live, work and raise our families, yet women remain underrepresented around municipal council tables,” says cofounder Laura Wood. “Our online Campaign School and election resources help make the idea of running for office more approachable by sharing real experiences from women who have served and creating a supportive space for learning, questions and connection.”

PoliticsNOW is a grassroots political catalyst group aiming to engage new candidates and amplify women’s voices in government. The organization’s website offers free downloadable resources, including campaign email and social media templates, event planning and fundraising guides,

and webinars, such as Campaign Fundamentals for Women Candidates.

Operation Black Vote Canada works to increase “the representation of Black Canadians in politics, civil services, agencies, boards and commissions at all levels,” according to their website. The non-profit organization offers campaign tools and resources to help Black candidates run for office, including a daylong Municipal Bootcamp focused on campaign readiness and an annual Black Women’s Summit.

Elect Respect – A Pledge to Restore Civility in the Public Square is a campaign committed to upholding “core values of democratic service, including the right to work free from threats, abuse or intimidation,” according to their website. Leaders and citizens are encouraged to take the pledge to reject harassment and abuse, advocate for democracy and focus on ideas and policies.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s Leading with Respect

handguides – with chapters on topics such as Chairing Meetings

Effectively, Responding to Constituents and Fostering Civility at the Council Table – were also created for those who have been elected. But like Elect Respect, they are also excellent resources for hopeful candidates to explore.

Campaign basics: Where to start

Most municipalities will post online updates and host candidate information sessions, so visit municipal websites regularly. The sessions are typically run by the clerk and their team, who administer all official council records and processes, and oversee municipal elections, voting and voter information. Have a question? Call the clerk’s office –they’re the experts.

Once you have decided to run for a local council, regional council or mayoral position and your registration has been certified by the municipal clerk, you can officially begin cam-

A candidate checklist

Where you can run for local office

There are 444 municipalities in Ontario.

In The Hills’ readership generally lives within the geography of the local municipalities of:

◐ Amaranth ◐ Melancthon

◐ Caledon ◐ Mono

◐ Clearview (which includes Creemore)

◐ East Garafraxa ◐ Mulmur

◐ Erin ◐ Orangeville

◐ Grand Valley ◐ Shelburne

Key information

★ MAY 1 was the start of the nomination period. Nominations must be endorsed by 25 eligible electors (voters) in the municipality.

★ Nomination fees are $100 for councillors and school trustees and $200 for heads of council.

★ AUGUST 21 is the last day to file a nomination.

★ OCTOBER 26 is election day.

paigning. The clerk will advise you of spending limits, signage bylaws and financial obligations, such as tracking of all financial transactions. It’s worth noting that after the election, you will be expected to file a campaign financial statement, even if you are not successful. (Campaigns in Ontario must follow strict financial rules under the Municipal Elections Act, 1996.)

You can now launch a digital presence to inform voters about your values, intended priorities and approach. Your campaign team – those helping with communications, fundraising, social media management, volunteering and more – will be essential to co-ordination, organization and tracking contributions and spending.

A healthy election

In some municipalities, no new candidates will decide to run for office. Eleven of 44 municipal seats in Dufferin were acclaimed in the 2022 election, according to HCIA. And eligible voters are staying home. Only about 25–36 per cent of

voters in Dufferin municipalities voted that year. In Ontario, just under a third of eligible voters (32.9 per cent) participated – a record low.

To address these issues, HCIA has formed a municipal election task force with two goals: increased voter turnout and zero acclamations. The team has been administering surveys, reaching out to former candidates to consider running again and hosting community conversations.

Ultimately, Payne hopes to see more residents throw their hat in the ring for the ripple effects that can have: “Run for council! Win or lose, your neighbours deserve more choices and voices. If running is not for you, encourage others to run, and talk to people about voting in October.”

In late summer In The Hills will publish a guide on how to vote in the October 26 election.

Longtime In The Hills contributor Bethany Lee currently works in corporate initiatives in municipal government.

Who can run?

To be eligible to run for councillor or mayor, on the day your nomination is filed you must be:

✅ a resident, non-resident owner or tenant of land in the municipality, or the spouse of a non-resident owner or tenant

✅ a Canadian citizen

✅ at least 18 years old

✅ legally eligible to vote

✅ not disqualified by any legislation from holding municipal office

Who can’t run?

Candidates must not be:

❎ an inmate of a penal or correctional institution under sentence of imprisonment

❎ any person not eligible to vote in the municipality

❎ a staff member of the municipality, unless they take an unpaid leave of absence during the campaign period and resign if elected to office

❎ a judge of any court

❎ a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, a senator, or member of the House of Commons

Must I be a member of a political party?

No. Local municipal politicians run on individual platforms.

How to get started

☐ Decide which position you want to run for.

☐ Contact the municipal clerk for the nomination forms.

☐ Secure 25 endorsements for your nomination.

☐ Complete your nomination forms.

☐ Submit your forms and nomination fee to the municipal clerk.

☐ Once your nomination is certified, you can begin campaigning.

A Summer of Possibilities Come See for Yourself

Summer has a way of opening the door to new possibilities.

Sometimes, it starts with seeing something differently. For many, retirement living comes with assumptions. But once they visit Avalon Retirement Lodge, those perceptions begins to shift.

What they discover is not a step away from life, but a step into something lighter, more connected, and full of opportunity... It is also the realization that this was an option all along.

This is your invitation to come see it for yourself. You never know. It might just change everything.

Join BookLore and 3 Inspiring Authors As They Unleash a Web of Secrets

AUTHORS IN THE HILLS OF MULMUR Sunday, August 23, 1pm | The Foley Barn, Mulmur

ONTARIO ’ S CONSERVATION SYSTEM FACES A MAJOR OVERHAUL

By next spring, familiar names like Credit Valley Conservation would disappear if 36 authorities are folded into nine — with potential ripple effects across the Headwaters region.

BY EMILY DICKSON

The Ontario government is moving forward with major restructuring plans to reduce the number of conservation authorities by 75 per cent and consolidate them under a new provincial conservation agency.

The 2026 Ontario budget, which passed in April, officially mandates the consolidation.

Conservation authorities, municipalities and community groups across the province have voiced opposition to

the decision. The main concerns are loss of local expertise, risks to programs and slower development approvals.

During a recent TVO panel discussion, Ontario Headwaters Institute executive director Andrew McCammon described the consolidation plan as “another in a series of cutbacks to really the most important watershed management form in Ontario.” OHI is a charity that promotes watershed security.

Michael Palleschi, chair of Credit Valley Conservation – which is responsible for restoring, monitoring and protecting the 950-square-kilometre Credit River Watershed – said in a March media statement that while the CVC supports modernization, “dismantling a high-performing authority that is already meeting provincial objectives does not advance that goal.”

To date, few authorities have shown support for consolidation.

This map shows the 36 current Ontario conservation authorities, including the four conservation authorities in Headwaters: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Credit Valley Conservation Authority, Grand River Conservation Authority and the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority.

This map outlines the nine new regional conservation authorities that are slated to exist by early 2027.

Here’s what we know so far about the consolidation plans and the rollout, which is scheduled for completion by early 2027.

What’s happening to local conservation authorities?

On October 31, 2025, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks announced the creation of the new Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency to provide centralized leadership for conservation authorities. A news release said the move is designed to improve service delivery, cut red tape and “help get shovels in the ground faster on homes and other local infrastructure projects.” The OPCA then laid out plans to consolidate Ontario’s current 36 conservation authorities into larger regional bodies. Conservation authorities manage watersheds to safeguard against natural risks, such as flooding, and support the protection, restoration and responsible use of natural environments. They also act as critical environmental gatekeepers for building approvals for infrastructure projects, housing and roads.

The consolidation would affect the watersheds of the four conservation authorities in Headwaters: the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Credit Valley Conservation, the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority.

Though none of the NVCA’s conservation areas is located in the Headwaters section of the Nottawasaga River’s watershed, the other three conservation authorities own and manage popular conservation areas in Dufferin, Caledon and Erin:

• TRCA: Albion Hills and Glen Haffy conservation areas in Caledon

• CVC: Belfountain, Ken Whillans and Terra Cotta conservation areas in Caledon, as well as Island Lake Conservation Area at the edge of

A closer look at the new regional conservation authority boundaries. The raised areas show the four current Headwaters conservation authorities, each of which is to be folded into a different regional authority by early 2027. LAKE HURON REGIONAL CA

Nottawasaga Valley CA Grand River CA Toronto and Region CA Credit Valley CA

EASTERN LAKE ERIE REGIONAL CA

Orangeville and, along with the GRCA, the Elora Cataract Trailway (in partnership with the Elora Cataract Trailway Association)

• GRCA: the Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area in Grand Valley and, along with CVC, the Elora Cataract Trailway (in partnership with the Elora Cataract Trailway Association)

After consolidation, the existing conservation authorities become part of the new amalgamated authorities and will no longer operate under their current names. The TRCA becomes part of the Central Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority; the CVC joins the Western Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority; the GRCA falls under the Eastern Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority; and the NVCA would be merged into the Lake Huron Regional Conservation Authority.

Why are conservation authorities being consolidated?

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks stated that the current conservation system

has become “fragmented,” and that inconsistent standards and timelines “can slow down development approvals.” This risks hampering the authorities’ abilities to protect their communities from floods and other natural hazards, the ministry said. Other stated reasons for the consolidation include unpredictable service delivery, outdated data systems, administrative duplication and a lack of transparency with respect to asset management.

The province’s initial plan was to consolidate the authorities into seven regional bodies. However, in November 2025, after holding regional workshops and consultations with conservation authorities, municipalities, stakeholders and Indigenous communities, the province amended the proposed number of regional bodies to nine. Analysis of the feedback indicated that seven authorities would be too large to manage and would align less effectively with geographical regions and their watershed needs.

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority, based in Thunder Bay, avoided amalgamation with other authorities along Lake Huron – some more than 1,000 kilometres away –

following significant public pushback. The LRCA will be rebranded as the Northwestern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority, but will remain a separate entity, which LRCA chief administrative officer Tammy Cook said, “feels like a victory.”

To support the transition, Ontario has earmarked $3 million in annual funding to the OPCA beginning in 2026. The restructuring is expected to be complete by February 2027.

Why do conservation authorities oppose consolidation?

Most conservation authorities have criticized the move, citing risks such as potential loss of local watershed expertise and community representation, threats to conservation programs and partnerships, operational disruption and slower development approvals –contrary to what the province predicts.

The CVC disputed the province’s claims that conservation authorities stand in the way of development, saying that it currently processes development permit applications within an average of 14 days, “far exceeding the province’s 90-day service standard.”

The Peel regional chair and CEO, Nando Iannicca, expressed concerns about whether other municipalities could gain jurisdiction over Peel’s conservation authority lands. He added that the CVC and the TRCA, both of which manage conservation in Peel, “have the capacity and capability to remain standalone regional conservation authorities.”

The NVCA took issue with the large scale of the consolidation, suggesting that a more “geographically coherent” plan would involve merging with nearby Georgian Bay-area watersheds to achieve better alignment, reduce transition costs and provide local accountability protections.

And the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority has raised concerns about donor trust: the area contains properties donated to, or sold to, the authority by residents who expect their long-term care to be managed by a local body.

So far, there has been limited support for the consolidation. In one example, the GRCA stated that it sees “no direct implications for the GRCA’s current programs or services” at this time.

How has the consolidation plan been challenged?

Since the consolidation announcement, environmental groups and concerned communities have led opposition efforts via protests, petitions and letter-writing campaigns.

Ontario Nature, a charity that works to protect wild species and spaces, launched an online petition to “re-empower conservation authorities” and urged the government not to proceed with the consolidation. On March 25, the organization joined a coalition of environmental and civic organizations and professionals, including the National Farmers Union of Ontario and the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations, for a press conference at Queen’s Park.

According to Josh Suppan, president of NFU-O, the planned amalgamation “threatens the livelihoods and conservation efforts of farmers and Ontarians as a whole,” as it could erode protections for farmland and natural heritage lands.

As part of the province-wide Fight Ford rally on April 25, protestors demonstrated outside MPP Sylvia Jones’ Orangeville constituency office, calling for protection for the Headwaters region.

On the TVO panel discussion, OHI’s McCammon criticized the government for being “completely focused on land-use expansion [and] sprawl development.” Without integrated land-use and watershed planning, he said, the province will continue to face flooding and water insecurity.

What happens next?

In the coming months, conservation authorities are required to follow a step-by-step transition process across key functions such as HR,

During the transition, no new conservation authorities can be created, existing boundaries cannot be changed and the ministry can issue binding directions to conservation authorities.

finance and IT, based on a roadmap set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks.

The current authorities must also appoint two members to a transition committee, led by a project chair appointed by the OPCA. Each chair will act as the authority’s chief administrative officer for 24 months. CVC confirmed that its board is following the guidelines and is currently forming its transition committee, which should be in place by this summer.

During the transition, no new conservation authorities can be created, existing boundaries cannot be changed and the ministry can issue binding directions to conservation authorities. Once consolidation is complete, the new regional conservation authorities will form watershed councils to maintain local expertise in watershed management and planning, and to identify top priorities for programs and services.

The CVC said that it will continue working with its conservation partners to support a smooth transition. According to chief administrative officer Terri LeRoux, “Our focus will be on ensuring continuity so communities continue to receive the programs, services and watershed stewardship they rely on, without disruption.”

What do you think about the conservation authority consolidation plan? Leave a comment on the story at inthehills.ca.

Emily Dickson is an associate editor at In The Hills.

Discover Erin

Discover Erin. Slow down. Look around.

From charming downtowns and hi storic streets to scenic trail s, agri- touri sm and ou tdoor adventure, the Town of Erin is a place made for wandering. Enjoy local flavours, ou tdoor experiences and the simple plea sure of taking things a li ttle slower. Vi si t for the day or stay awhile; you’ll quickly see why vi si tors return and local s are proud to call the Town of Erin home.

Wha t’s on this Summer:

• June 20, 2026: Erin Arts Festival Main Street, Erin

• July 1, 2026: Summerfest Canada Day Erin Fairgrounds, 190 Main Street, Erin

• July 17, 18, 19, 2026: Erin Ram Rodeo Erin Fairgrounds, 190 Main Street, Erin

• September 26, 2026: Hometown Harvest Main Street, Erin

To discover more events, go to: discovererin.ca or scan the QR code

the sting, the spray, the sap and the spine

IN HEADWATERS AND BEYOND, PLANTS AND ANIMALS, FROM NETTLES AND POISON IVY TO ANTS AND PORCUPINES, RELY ON PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL DEFENCES TO STAY ALIVE.

WE TEND ONLY TO NOTICE WHEN WE GET TOO CLOSE.

BY DON SCALLEN

No one wants to be eaten. Not me, not you, and not the plants and animals that share our world. This imperative has led to a stunning number of evolutionary hacks designed to protect organisms from becoming easy meals.

Many of these defences are chemical. Mother Nature has had millions of years to dabble in her well-stocked laboratory and mix a witches’ brew of chemical cocktails designed to make hungry attackers gag. Or worse. Many plants sequester chemicals that make them unpalatable. And many animals – from ants to beetles, to skunks and rattlesnakes – also have potent chemical defences.

Chemical defence is an important survival strategy, but popular, too, are structural defences such as the shells of turtles and the quills of porcupines. Unsurprisingly, defence also extends to behaviour, as in the deathfeigning of opossums and hognose snakes.

Don’t touch me!

In my early years of teaching, I championed the planting of a wildflower meadow in the schoolyard. The soil was tilled and planted with a variety of wildflower seeds. Aster and milkweed flourished, but unexpectedly, so did a bumper crop of stinging nettle.

One day, the school’s vice-principal, with whom I had a lukewarm relationship, strolled through the meadow in shorts – and became acquainted with this plant. With skin afire, he panicked and admitted himself to the ER at Peel Memorial Hospital. Though his misery was fleeting, our relationship became even more strained.

The stems and leaves of stinging nettle are cloaked in tiny hollow spines with caps that open when touched, allowing a diabolical mixture of

chemicals to escape. The blend comprises formic acid, histamine, serotonin and something called acetylcholine. Serotonin, sometimes referred to as the “happy hormone” when produced within our bodies, is not nearly as jolly when delivered by nettle. The deep burning and itching effects of the nettles’ multi-faceted chemical assault are immediate and, to the uninitiated, alarming. I could have sheepishly explained to the VP that his life wasn’t in peril – if only he had asked. In my youthful wandering up hills and down dales, I had blundered into stinging nettle too many times to count, and I knew, through painful trial and error, that the misery it provokes is temporary. A stoic response is to grimace and bear it. An hour should be long enough, though people’s responses may vary. Interestingly, plants and animals sometimes share related chemical defences. Formic acid, one component of the sting of stinging nettle, is also wielded by ants to give a nasty jolt to

attackers. The ants spray the acid from the tips of their abdomens.

Imagine then, the outrage ants might feel when birds co-opt their defence strategy and use it as a topical medicinal. Birds such as robins, cardinals and flickers pick up squirming ants in their bills and rub them on their feathers in a behaviour called “anting.” Speculation is that the formic acid sprayed by the struggling ants helps the birds rid themselves of parasitic feather mites. Regrettably, there are not enough “anters” to control the European fire ants – accidentally introduced to North America from across the pond – that have conquered my yard. Gone are the days when I could walk barefoot on my lawn in the summer. Kneeling to garden in shorts is also ill-advised.

Microlitre for microlitre, fire ant venom, a bespoke mix of alkaloids and proteins, is incredibly powerful. A droplet of this liquid misery from these tiny red ants can prompt groans and shocking language from human victims. I’d much rather be poked by a mosquito or chewed by the mandibles of a black fly than stung by one of these little sadists.

Taste me at your peril!

Cardiac glycosides, in carefully prescribed doses, can slow heartbeats and strengthen heart contractions in people suffering heart failure. Initially derived from foxglove plants, these chemicals have saved many lives. That’s the good news.

The bad news is that too much cardiac glycoside can cause a potentially lifethreatening irregular heartbeat. For plants and animals that don’t want to be eaten, this is the protective value of cardiac glycosides. Animals and plants as diverse as toads and milkweed use cardiac glycosides to defend

Athens and corrupted youth by encouraging them to challenge the actions of their elders. Shocking! To carry out the sentence, he famously drank hemlock.

More than 460 years later, Seneca, a Stoic philosopher of Rome, was implicated in a plot to depose the tyrant Nero. Apparently Seneca, who had once tutored Nero, recoiled at the emperor’s brutality. Alas, the plot was uncovered, and Nero demanded that Seneca take his own life. Seneca, perhaps with a nod to Socrates in ancient Greece, selected hemlock to do the job.

themselves. In toads, these chemicals, concentrated in two sacks positioned just behind their heads, pack enough punch to kill small mammals. Foolish dogs that mouth a toad usually survive, but often show signs of distress, including vomiting.

In milkweed, the cardiac glycosides reside in the thick white sap that gives this plant its name. Only a few insect herbivores, such as monarch butterfly caterpillars, can stomach this chemical defence.

Keep your distance!

One of the first things many parents teach children is to avoid skunks. I learned this lesson early on, even before I could properly pronounce “skunk.” Crazy about critters from a tender age, I toddled after a skunk on Mount Royal in Montreal, shouting “kunk, kunk!” My mother reined me in and reinforced the message that getting up close and personal with a skunk is a bad idea. And that, of course, is just the reaction a skunk desires. In their anal scent glands, skunks manufacture a pea-soup yellow liquid that is rich in sulfur compounds. With uncanny accuracy, they can spray this out of their anuses for a distance of several metres. The targeted animals (including humans!) suffer a burning sensation on the skin and sometimes even temporary blindness. But what isn’t temporary is the stench – unless thorough cleaning is undertaken. A school principal I once worked with was sprayed by a skunk in his garage. He returned to work soon afterward, oblivious to the scent of eau de Pepé

Le Pew he still emanated. The office manager held her nose and begged him to return home.

I grew up believing the old chestnut that bathing in tomato juice was the solution to skunk stink. I also believed that hummingbirds migrated under the wings of Canada geese and that ostriches buried their heads in the sand. Tomato juice doesn’t work. But a dousing with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and dish soap apparently does.

Skunks are not the swiftest of animals. They don’t need to be, because of their potent chemical weaponry. But like all well-protected organisms, their defence is not infallible. Great horned owls, with little or no ability to smell, reputedly hunt them.

Beware. We are deadly!

In 399 BCE, the Athenian philosopher Socrates was sentenced to death because his teachings challenged existing norms. The prevailing narrative is that he questioned the pantheon of Gods that presided over

But the poisonous hemlock of classical history has nothing in common with the hemlock trees that grow in Headwaters and beyond. The hemlock that killed Socrates and Seneca is a herbaceous plant with the scientific name Conium maculatum. This old-world perennial is found only occasionally in Headwaters, having been introduced to North America, astonishingly, as a garden plant.

More common here is its close relative, water hemlock or Cicuta maculata , a native wetland species that also has poison coursing through its tissues. Both hemlock species are in the carrot family (Apiaceae), and both can be mistaken for the abundant Queen Anne’s lace of local meadows and roadsides.

But unlike the Queen Anne’s lace that is an ancestor of today’s cultivated carrots, water hemlock can be deadly. A nibble of its root will lead to the quick death that was the fate of Socrates and Seneca. In fact, the United States Department of Agriculture calls water hemlock “the most violently toxic plant that grows in North America.” Though the USDA was referring to Cicuta douglasii, the western North American version of water hemlock, the warning about extreme toxicity also applies to Cicuta maculata

If water hemlock is North America’s most dangerous plant, the ominously named “destroying angel” may be the most dangerous fungus. The “angel” part of this mushroom’s name probably stems from its lovely, benign appearance. It is a graceful, pure white mushroom with a saucershaped cap and a stalk ornamented with a distinctive “veil,” the remains of a membrane that once protected the emerging mushroom.

But this angel is far from angelic, as experienced mushroom foragers know only too well. The Cornell Mushroom Blog includes fungi gourmand Richard Eshelman’s harrowing account of what happened when he inadvertently collected, cooked and ate three destroying angels – and survived.

Eating destroying angels provokes an array of frightening symptoms. Violent upchucking and diarrhea signal the poisoning, then symptoms may temporarily ease as the victim breathes a sigh of relief that the worst is over.

Symptom relief, however, is just the eye of the storm. Agony soon returns as the mushroom toxins perform their devilish work deep within the body, where they destroy liver and kidney functions. Death or permanent damage to these vital organs is the usual outcome, a fate that Eshelman barely escaped.

The toxicity of destroying angels and other poisonous mushrooms may have evolved to deter herbivores from eating them before they’ve dispersed their spores. Or perhaps the toxicity is simply a chance byproduct of the mushroom’s metabolism. Scientists really don’t know.

Fungi are mysterious. Psilocybin mushrooms, for example, show promise as possible treatments for psychological distress in humans. Perhaps this is simply an accidental side effect, but more creative speculation suggests that their mind-altering chemistry developed to encourage mammals like humans to eat and disperse them. Can their spores travel intact through gastrointestinal tracts?

Don’t tread on me!

My brother’s rash erupted over much of his legs and torso after he slept on the beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park – in a patch of poison ivy. Insidiously, the rash bided its time until Dean embarked on a road trip to Baltimore three days later. First his lower legs blushed red and erupted in small blisters. Then the rash colonized his upper legs and much of his torso.

The itching was intense. Movement was agony. Despite this, he kept a promise to himself that he would take in a baseball game at Camden Yards. The night before the game was low-grade torture, sleep almost impossible. At the game the next day, he remembers almost passing out, plagued by the rash and the lack of sleep.

Poison ivy is abundant in Headwaters and Ontario. This plant likes sun and is frequently encountered along the edges of forest paths. Though it can grow in a variety of soils, it thrives in sandy places, such as Sandbanks.

In Ontario poison ivy comes in two forms. One is familiar as a spreading groundcover. Less common is its guise as a woody vine able to climb into the canopies of trees.

Poison ivy contains urushiol, a resin that incites an allergic reaction in most people. Urushiol is also found in the tissues of mangos and cashews, which belong to the same family as poison ivy.

If chewed along with the delicious flesh, mango skins can cause a rash in the mouth. And cashews should be eaten only after being shelled and thoroughly roasted to eliminate all traces of urushiol. Curiously, only humans and perhaps some of our primate relatives seem to be allergic to urushiol. In dogs, cats and other mammals, it rarely causes a reaction. This, of course, raises the question: why us? Scientists suggests that urushiol’s real targets are

Ask any dog. A porcupine’s barbed quills are painful and hard to remove.

bacteria that could injure the plants. Humans may just happen to be collateral victims.

A more imaginative answer could tap into the fact that most relatives of poison ivy reside in the tropics. Could the toxic response of primates to urushiol have evolved to stop monkeys from eating the fruit? Perhaps mangos, with origins in Asia, want to be spread in elephant patties, and maybe cashews, originating in Brazil, prefer to be dispersed by birds such as toucans.

Don’t risk a bite!

I spent much of my childhood in the woods, and as far back as I can remember, I was smitten by wildflowers. My favourite was Jack-in-the-pulpit. It couldn’t compete with the showiness of trilliums, but it was imbued with character. As a little boy, I loved finding Jack standing upright in his pulpit.

The late Stuart McLean, the iconic Canadian humorist and storyteller, wove Jack-in-the-pulpit into one of his Vinyl Cafe tales. In the story titled “A Letter from Camp,” McLean uses the outdated term Indian turnip instead of “Jack-in-the-pulpit.”

Dave, the father character in the Vinyl Cafe series,

recalls a misadventure that happened when he was a teenager at camp. Equipped with a wildflower field guide, teenage Dave wandered into the woods and found an Indian turnip. Hungry, he pulled the “turnip” out of the ground and took a bite.

McLean may have invoked a little artistic licence when he described Dave’s reaction: as if “a small nuclear device had been detonated in the vicinity of his tonsils.” Of course, Dave survives and emerges a little wiser about the ways of the woods.

Jack-in-the-pulpit corms can be eaten, as Indigenous peoples are aware, but not until elaborate steps have been taken to neutralize the calcium oxalate crystals that Dave struggled with. These crystals are like tiny shards of glass. When in contact with water – as in a mouth – they swell and penetrate soft tissues. Not pleasant.

Many common plants, both household plants and native wildflowers, contain oxalate crystals designed to inflict pain in the mouths of herbivores. Rhubarb, calla lilies, pothos and peace lilies are among them. Many of our favourite vegetables are also endowed with these crystals, but not in sufficient amounts to cause harm.

Respect my personal space!

The ability of plants such as Jack-in-the-pulpit to protect themselves with needle-like structures is replicated on a macro scale by a common Headwaters mammal. Porcupines are covered by 30,000 or more sharp quills that dislodge on contact with the probing noses of predators.

The quills are modified hairs sporting microscopic downward angled barbs that make dislodging them a challenge. So effective is this defence that porcupines, like skunks, move at a leisurely pace, largely unconcerned about fleeter-footed predators.

But no defence, no matter how effective, is unassailable. A porcupine’s nemesis is the fisher, a member of the weasel or mustelid clan. Like most mustelids – think badgers and wolverines – fishers are aggressive hunters. They dispatch porcupines in brutal fashion, reportedly biting the porcupines’ unprotected faces until they succumb to injury and blood loss.

Headwaters porcupines enjoyed a long respite from these dangerous enemies, but those halcyon days are now over. After being expelled years ago by habitat loss and trapping, fishers have reasserted their claim to southern Ontario. Porcupines now look over their bristly shoulders in fear.

Nature is a theatre of competition, with plants and animals doing what they must to live another day. They may inspire us with their beauty, diversity and wonder, but they exist because they can defend themselves. No one wants to be eaten.

Don Scallen is the author of Nature Where We Live: Activities to Engage Your Inner Scientist from Pond Dipping to Animal Tracking and Spotted Salamanders and Their World. Read more of his observations on local flora and fauna in “Notes from the Wild” at inthehills.ca.

Summer starts JUNE 6! Fantastic LIVE MUSIC in the Courtyard every Saturday and Sunday during THE DAY — included with farm admission. PLUS our bigger and better

SUMMER EVENING CONCERT SERIES CONCERTS, FESTIVALS and EVENTS, including:

SATURDAY JUNE 6 Practically Hip

FRIDAY JUNE 19 FiddleStix

A Down East Kitchen Party Event

SATURDAY JUNE 20 SOS Tribute to Sting & The Police

SATURDAY JUNE 20 & SUNDAY JUNE 21 Father’s Day Weekend Event

SATURDAY JUNE 27 Epic Eagles

SATURDAY JULY 11 Spice & Spears

SATURDAY JULY 18 Country Music Fest (All Day) Sponsored by KX94.7 Radio

SATURDAY JULY 25 FiddleStix A Down East Kitchen Party Event

SATURDAY AUGUST 8 Abba Revisited Sponsored by Lisa Hartsink Team Realty

SATURDAY AUGUST 15 Practically Hip

SATURDAY AUGUST 22 EHA Hot Sauce Festival

SATURDAY AUGUST 29 Dog Days of Summer Dog Festival & Market Event

at www.ErinHillAcres.farm Click the BOOK NOW icon to visit the booking site with all the details for every event.

www.amica.ca/peelvillage

SE N IO R L IVI N G reimagined

Visit Amica Peel Village—just minutes from Caledon—and experience the difference firsthand with a complimentary lunch and personalized residence tour. At

Amica, life is anything but ordinary� Indulge in premium amenities and inspired cuisine crafted by Red Seal chefs� Explore passions new and old through enriching programs designed to spark joy� And do it all with the confidence that flexible, professional care is always within reach� This is senior living that inspires — every day, in every way�

Dining That Delights

Enriching Activities

Care That Evolves With You

Reflecting on Women in Agriculture

BY AMY OUCHTERLONY

Th is year the United Nations is recognizing women in agriculture, calling 2026 the Year of the Woman Farmer.

When reflecting on women farmers I have met, I think of so many who have influenced me with their resilience and creativity. I’ll never forget a day I spent making tortillas and traditional Mexican chicken mole from scratch with a woman farmer in Chiapas. I had the good fortune of spending a week with environmentalist Vandana Shiva at one of her research farms in India. Her leadership and tenacity has had a significant impact on the world stage.

And while the UN’s Year of the Woman Farmer celebrates these remarkable women, women farmers here in the Headwaters region are also being recognized. I have been inspired by so many of them, particularly those who have started and run farms as the primary farmer.

Showing young women there are opportunities in agriculture has always been important to me. Th roughout my 15 years working in agriculture with my partner, Graham Corbett, and raising our two children, there have been seasons when it has been unclear or difficult to defi ne my role on our organic and biodynamic farm, Fiddle Foot Farm.

Some years, my work took place during a baby’s nap or with a toddler in tow. Women farmers, like women in any workforce, balance a diversity of roles: farmer, mother, homesteader, nutritionist, teacher, caregiver, chef, gardener, marketer, administrator, community builder, inventory manager, bookkeeper, harvester and family logistical mastermind!

It may not always be the most straightforward job description, but it’s one I have felt very grateful to fi ll. Th rough it all, I’m proud to be committed to caring for the earth and maintaining the integrity of our land for future generations. We grow 5.5 acres of vegetables from garlic to greens, carrots to cabbage, tomatoes to turnips, potatoes and peas – without synthetic chemicals, artificial fertilizers or genetically modified organisms.

Like many women farmers before me, I enjoy using the farm as a teaching tool, addressing concerns Graham and I have for the sustainability of shared natural resources (land, water, air) and the growing disconnect between humans and the natural world that supports us.

Let this issue of the Headwaters Farm Fresh Guide be an invitation to toast the many roles women play on farms. If you ate today, thank a woman farmer!

Amy Ouchterlony farms at Fiddle Foot Farm in Mulmur with her partner, Graham Corbett, and their two kids. They offer a Community Supported Agriculture weekly share program and custom online orders. In the spring, they sell seedlings. fiddlefootfarm.com

WELCOME TO FRESH LOCAL FOOD

We hope this year’s Headwaters Farm Fresh guide will inspire you to get to know your local farmers, put fabulously fresh food on your table and, as a bonus, explore the beautiful countryside in our own backyard.

The easy­to­use map and listings are designed to help you find the very best vegetables, fruit, meats and craft beverages that farms in Caledon, Dufferin and Erin have to offer — whether it’s direct from their farms, through a CSA, or at a weekly farmers’ market or independent retailer.

Support local farmers. Enjoy local food.

Headwaters Farm Fresh is a joint project of Headwaters Food and Farming Alliance and In The Hills. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the following:

49

CSA

MEET YOUR LOCAL FARMERS

Farms are listed alphabetically. Numbers correspond to location on map. ● for Dufferin ● for Caledon & Erin ● for farmers’ markets

NA Not shown on map. Online orders, off­farm retail or appointment only.

FARM GATE

Community Supported Agriculture. Buy an annual farm share for fresh weekly pickup.

Farm­grown products at farm stall or farmhouse.

Albion Hills Community Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, COMMUNITY KITCHEN, ON-FARM STORE

Caledon

16555 Humber Station Rd

Karen Hutchinson, manager albionhillscommunityfarm.org

Farm-fresh vegetables, farm stand; allotment plots; events; all-ages education programs on bees, pollinators, native planting for ecoliteracy education

May–Oct : Thu 12–7 or by appointment; online ordering, delivery and farm­gate pickup available

76

Albion Orchards

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK

Caledon

14800 Innis Lake Rd

Scott Lunau

albionorchards.com

Apples, pears, baked goods, Christmas trees, cider, honey, maple syrup, vegetables, sweet corn, pumpkins

Aug–Oct : Wed–Sun 10–5, Sat–Sun 10–6; open Labour Day and Thanksgiving Monday

34

ON-FARM RESTAURANT

Enjoy a meal or snack.

ON-FARM STORE

Full retail outlet: farm­grown and other products.

Amaranth Springs Farm

FARM GATE

Amaranth 554090 Mono-Amaranth Townline

Deb Walks, Chris Kowalchuk 519-942-4716

amaranthsprings.ca

Select seasonal vegetables and fruit, grass-fed goat

Call ahead for farm­gate order pickup

10

Austerfield Apiary Honey & Botanicals

CSA, OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Melancthon 581099 County Rd 17

Rita and Matt Chantree 519-942-7750

austerfieldapiary.com

Also at Shelburne Fresh Variety, Shelburne Foodland, Dundalk Foodland, Harmony

Whole Foods Market

Unpasteurized honey: clover, creamed, wildflower, linden, blueberry, buckwheat; bee pollen, royal jelly, propolis, honeycomb, beeswax bags, soap, lotion bars

By appointment only, but hours are flexible; phone ordering available; check website

ONLINE ORDER

Produce can be ordered online.

YOU PICK

Pick your own fruit or vegetables in season.

35

Avalon Lavender Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, OFF-FARM RETAIL, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK Mono 347036 Mono Centre Rd Alexis Levine 519-941-3369 avalonlavenderfarm.ca

Also at Orangeville Summer Farmers’ Market Lavender and various derivatives, cut-your-own bouquets, heritage barn boutique, stone circle, river walk, daily yoga (6 pm), Sat high tea Thu–Sun 10–7; pickup available

37

Ballantyne Blooms and Bees

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK Mono 593552 Blind Line Anna and Robert Ballantyne 647-524-9338 ballantynebloomsandbees.ca Fresh-cut dahlias and annuals, honey, beehive tours, pickyour-own bouquets, monthly flower subscription By appointment only; pickup and delivery available

FARMERS’ MARKETS

A Creemore Farmers’ and Craft Market

B Grand Valley Farmers Market

C Orangeville Farmers’ Markets

D Erin Farmers’ Market

43

Barnarrow Farm

FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

East Garafraxa 062233 County Rd 3

Dave and Lisa de Kleer 519-831-5845

barnarrow.ca

Also at Georgetown Farmers’ Market

Dry-aged beef, small-flock chicken, Ontario lamb; bulk, boxes, individual cuts, patties, sausages, pepperettes

By appointment only; pickup and delivery available

32

Bennington Hills Farm

FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

Amaranth 253504 9th Line

Jeff and Samantha Roney 519-215-9288

benningtonhillsfarm.ca

Regenerative farm offering grass-fed and -finished beef, eggs, unpasteurized honey, small grains

Order online, call or email to arrange farm­gate pickup

42

Berrys4U

FARM GATE, YOU PICK

East Garafraxa 064383 County Rd 3

Eric Henneberg 519-993-4437

facebook.com/berrys4u

Also at Orangeville Farmers’ Market

Strawberries, raspberries; seasonal pick-your-own and picked Check Facebook for hours

27

Breedon’s Maple Syrup

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Adjala 3662 Concession Rd 3

Dawn and Kent Breedon 705-435-5269

breedonsmaplesyrup.com

Also at Hockley General Store

Maple syrup, maple butter, maple sugar Thu–Sun 10–4; in­store shopping or order online and arrange pickup

BRILLIANT MEADOWS

20

Brilliant Meadows

FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

Mono 935418 Airport Rd

Shiying Liu

647-988-4549

brilliantmeadows.com

Asian vegetables, eggs, pastured chicken, duck and pork

By appointment only

44

Calehill Farms

FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

Orton

9319 Erin East Garafraxa Townline Brittney Livingston, Andrew Mazurka

519-820-1337

calehillfarms.ca

Also at Erin Farmers’ Market

Whole chicken and chicken cuts, including breast, thigh, drumsticks, wings and sausage; ground chicken burgers; beef halves and quarters, packs, individual cuts

Tue and Thu 1–7; otherwise by appointment only; online ordering available

71

Campbell’s Cross Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK

Caledon 3634 King St

Josie and Michael Gallo

416-294-7642

campbellscrossfarm.com

Cut-your-own sunflowers, honey, maple syrup, pumpkins; café, ice cream, wood-fired pizza; animals, birthdays, corporate events, school trips

Aug : Sunflower Festival; Sep–Oct : Fall Fest; Nov–Feb : Christmas trees and holiday events, snowshoeing; Apr : Easter Fest

61

Chickadee Hill Farm

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE

Caledon

18249 Shaws Creek Rd

Jean-François Morin 519-350-6411

chickadeehill.ca

Year-round free-range eggs; seasonal vegetables; grassfed beef, chicken, pork, lamb; canned goods, honey Fri–Sun 9–6

17

Connie’s Kitchen and Fresh Produce

FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

Mono 487207 30 Siderd Connie Arteaga 705-715-6396

connieskitchen.ca

Seasonal vegetables, preserves, free-range eggs, Italian baking, Italian meals, maple syrup, honey, creamed honey; kitchen inspected by health dept.

Call ahead or order through website for curbside pickup and delivery

6

Crooked Carrots Farm

FARM GATE

Mulmur 678135 Centre Rd

Daniela Banducci, John Pinto 647-968-8536

crookedcarrotsfarm.ca

Also at Creemore 100 Mile Store, Creemore Farmers’ Market

Honey, goat milk soap, eggs, pasture-raised poultry, seasonal vegetables

By appointment only; email to book an appointment

55

Curly Creek Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK

Erin 8750 27 Siderd

Mark and Heather Gerchikov 289-242-9342

curlycreekfarm.com

Honey, lavender, duck eggs, haskap berries, beeswax candles; guided farm tours 9–8 daily; tours by appointment

67

Davis Feed & Farm Supply

ON-FARM STORE

Caledon

15770 Mountainview Rd

John Davis, Sean Davis 905-584-2880

davisfeed.ca

Eggs, pumpkins, squash, honey, sunflower seed, flowers

Check website for store hours; phone orders, delivery and farm­gate pickup available for all products

53

De Boers Market

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon

10002 Castlederg Siderd Kori de Boer, Casie Kuypers 289-503-3000

deboersmarket.ca

Beef, chicken, pork, lamb, honey, maple syrup, seasonal vegetables

Tue–Sat 10–5

74

Dixie Orchards

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK

Caledon 14309 Dixie Rd

Paul and Lynnette Gray 905-838-5888

dixieorchards.com

Apples, sunflowers, pumpkins, hazelnuts; small market and bakery; wagon rides, corn maze, farm animals, straw jump

Mid­Aug–Oct : 10–5 daily

72

Downey’s Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE

Caledon

13682 Heart Lake Rd

905-838-2990

downeysfarm.com

Play area, farm animals, festivals, bakery, homemade fudge, jams, giftware

May 22–Oct 31 : 9–5 daily; Nov 20–Dec 24 : 9–5 Thu–Sun

73

Downey’s Strawberry & Apple Farm

FARM GATE, YOU PICK

Caledon

13707 Heart Lake Rd

Greg and Melissa Downey 905-838-4777

downeysupickfarm.ca

Sweet corn, pumpkins, gourds, squash, black and red currants, jam, jelly, honey, apple cider, homemade butter tarts; pick-your-own strawberries, raspberries and apples

Check website for seasonal hours

45

Elliott Tree Farm and Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ON-FARM RESTAURANT, ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK

Erin 9467 Erin East Garafraxa Townline Derek Elliott

519-216-0699

elliotttreefarm.ca

Maple syrup, maple butter, maple candy, maple cotton candy, maple sugar, honey, barbecue sauce, salad dressing, Christmas trees

Family Day weekend–mid­Nov : Maple Syrup Farm Experience; Nov–Dec : Christmas Tree Farm Experience; check website for hours and details

Market, Heatherlea Farm Shoppe, Hillsburgh Foodland Sunflower microgreens, pea shoots, broccoli microgreens, radish microgreens, wheatgrass, cat grass By appointment only; call ahead or contact via website

11

Fiddle Foot Farm

CSA, ONLINE ORDER Mulmur 796530 3rd Line EHS

Graham Corbett, Amy Ouchterlony 519-925-3225 fiddlefootfarm.com

Organically and biodynamically grown vegetables, weekly CSA shares, online custom orders (Sep–Mar), spring seedling sale (check website) By appointment only; check website for custom online orders

75

Flying Dutchman’s Apiary

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 14681 Torbram Rd

Robert van den Hoef, Shelley Baker

519-938-2457

rob.vdh@me.com

Bee educational tours, honey, comb honey, garden plants, maple syrup, eggs; bee rescue in southwestern Ontario

Email or call ahead Mon–Sat 9–6 to set up convenient pickup time

19

4M – Mikoliew Mach Mulmur

Maple Company

FARM GATE, OFF-FARM RETAIL

Mulmur

716092 1st Line E

Ken Mikoliew

519-925-6818

Also at Maple Grove Farm and Market Maple syrup

Farm­gate sales by chance or appointment

57

4th Line Cattle Co.

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Erin 5682 4th Line

Matt and Tamaran Mousseau

519-766-6079

4thlinecattleco.ca

Also at Erin Farmers’ Market

Grass-fed and -finished beef; Texas longhorn and Hereford steaks, roasts, extra lean ground beef, stewing beef, burgers, sausages, pasture-raised heritage pork, free-range eggs

By appointment only; order online and schedule pickup via website

22

Fresh and Tasty Mushrooms

FARM GATE

Amaranth

475226 County Rd 11

Sean Declerc, Shannon Coleclough 519-925-3215

freshandtastymushrooms.com

Specialty and wild mushrooms; all-natural produce; Besley farm’s cherry tomatoes available at Orangeville Farmers’ Market stall Farm pickup by appointment only; check website for market locations

24

Future Spell Farm

Specialty Herbs

ONLINE ORDER

Mono 714538 1st Line EHS

Jessye Finch 647-237-3317

futurespell.com

Certified organic herbs tended with care on our small-scale farm to support personal, community and collective well-being. By appointment only; order via online shop or wholesale order form; pickup and delivery available

2

Glenaura Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE

Melancthon 438454 4th Line

Andrea and Chris Pease 519-925-8565

glenaurafarm.com

Grass-fed kunekune pork, grass-fed goat, custom orders, on-farm experiences

By appointment only

29

Grand Maple Farm

ON-FARM STORE

Amaranth 294392 8th Line

Mark and Cynthia Tijssen

519-939-1889

grandmaplefarm.ca

Maple syrup, honey, Amaranth-grown preserves

Call ahead

30

Grand River Farm

COMMUNITY KITCHENS, ONLINE ORDER

Grand Valley

Josh Landman and Mel Karpenko

grandriverfarm.com

Pasture-raised pork, chicken, turkey

By appointment only; order online for on­farm pickup

33

Green and Bloom Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, CSA, ONLINE ORDER

Amaranth 294017 8th Line

Natalie and Shehan 647-988-9951

greenandbloomfarm.ca

Seasonal vegetables and cut flowers, some fruits; workshops, farm-to-table dinners

By appointment only, May–Oct

58

Heartwood Farm & Cidery

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Erin 5438 2nd Line

Brent Klassen and Val Steinmann 416-527-4352

heartwoodfarm.ca

Small-batch craft cider, grassfed beef, maple syrup, honey and other seasonal products; regenerative farming experiences, workplace off-site retreats, farm “glamping” overnight stays

Order online for pickup or delivery; check website to book seasonally varying on­farm experiences

62

Heatherlea Farm Shoppe

CAFÉ, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 17049 Winston Churchill Blvd

Pat and Gord McArthur 519-927-5902

heatherlea.ca

Artisan dry-aged Angus beef, fresh meats, espresso drinks, baked goods, cheese, produce, heat-and-serve meals, local foods

Year­round Tue–Sun; licensed patio; check website for hours; shop in­store or order online for pickup or delivery

41

Hereward Farms

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK East Garafraxa 141051 15 Siderd

Julie Thurgood-Burnett, Stephen Burnett 226-779-4973

herewardfarm.ca

Also at Hockley Valley Resort Spa, Beauty Bar on Main, Deja Vu Diner, Stranded Hair Studio, Foxy Face Culinary lavender, lavender tea, lavender ice cream, lavender jams and chutneys Wed–Sat 10–4; pickup available

NA

The Heritage Bee Co. OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Mulmur

Debbie Gray 705-466-2337

heritagebee.com

Also at Pear Home Orangeville, Headwaters Health Care Centre Gift Shop, Downey’s Farm, Heatherlea Farm Shoppe, Hereward Farms, Main St. Market, Museum of Dufferin (Holiday Treasures) Female founded; Certified B Corp; 1% for the Planet Gourmet honeys handcrafted locally; sold across Canada

Check website to order online or to find off­farm retail locations

63

HoneyComb Cottage Bee Company – Belfountain

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 17162 Old Main St

J.L. Marshall

facebook.com/honeycomb cottagebeecompanybelfountain

Raw local honey, pure honeycomb, raw beeswax, creams and lip balms, candles, baskets, honeybee nucs and queens

Self­serve honey shed open daily 11–6 or order online through Facebook

66

Horseshoe Hill Farm

FARM GATE

Caledon

15691 Horseshoe Hill Rd

Linda Gillstrom

905-586-1536

Sweet corn, squash, zucchini, garlic, cherry tomatoes, pie pumpkins, small–jumbo pumpkins, gourds, jalapeño peppers, honey

Aug–Oct : Sat–Sun 12–5

78

Humbervalley Honey

FARM GATE

Bolton 255 Glasgow Rd

Larry Zembal

416-708-0276

lzembal@rogers.com

Raw honey

Mon–Sat 9–6; call first to order and confirm pickup time

38

Islandview Farm Market

FARM GATE

Mono 633520 Hwy 10

Charles and Susan Hughson 519-941-9098

islandviewfarmmarket @gmail.com

Certified Organic

Garlic, vegetables, pies, tarts, preserves, honey, crafts

Jun–mid­Oct : weekends 9–6, watch for trailer

23

Jenala Farms

ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK

Amaranth 475080 County Rd 11

Ken and Faye Brett 519-938-0801

jenalafarms.com

Pick-your-own and ready-picked strawberries; honey, maple syrup

Hours vary depending on availability; check website or Facebook page

3

Kidd Farms

FARM GATE

Melancthon 438162 4th Line

John, Nancy, Bruce Kidd 519-925-6453

kiddfarms@gmail.com

Also at Harmony Whole Foods Market

Maple syrup

Mon–Sat approx. 8–8; call ahead

69

Kooner Farm Market

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK

Caledon 8086 Castlederg Siderd Indy Kooner 416-858-4639

facebook.com/koonerfarms

Raw honey, free-run eggs, organic vegetables, cut flowers Mid­May–Dec

4

Lennox Farm

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Melancthon 518024 County Rd 124 French family lennoxfarm.ca

Homegrown fruit and vegetables, baking, preserves; agricultural education classes, farm tours, field dinners Mar–Dec : self­serve market (closed Tue, Wed); farm­gate pickup and online ordering

OCTOBER 3, 2026

13

Lionsshare Farm

FARM GATE, OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Mulmur 837023 4th Line E Hilchey family 519-925-2222

lionssharefarm@gmail.com

Also at Creemore Farmers’ and Craft Market

Organically grown fruits and vegetables, such as asparagus, berries and much more; freerange eggs at the farm gate

Open daily May–Oct; email to sign up for weekly flyer

9

Lisle Livestock & Fresh Market

ONLINE ORDER

Adjala-Tosorontio 8857 Simcoe County Rd 12

Bryan and Melanie Twiss 519-404-9035

lislelivestockfreshmarket.com

Fresh produce, beef, chicken, pork, maple syrup, eggs, gourmet pastries, gluten-free baking, dairy Check website for weekly selections; online order deadline : Monday, 7 pm for delivery Wed or Thu

NA

Living Against the Current

CSA, FARM GATE

Mono

Jennifer Cosby

226-799-3997

livingagainstthecurrent.com

Seasonal raw, unpasteurized honey (liquid, creamed and cut comb); registered queen and nuc producer Farm gate 8–8; phone or email for farm­gate pickup location

18

Long Lane Acres

ONLINE ORDER

East Luther-Grand Valley County Rd 25

Jerry and Tina Martin 519-500-6191

longlaneacres.com

Ethically pasture-raised beef, no added hormones, antibiotic-free; maple syrup By appointment only; phone ordering, pickup and delivery available

54

Majestic Farm

FARM GATE, OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Erin 6003 1st Line

Karen Mansfield and Andy Fraser majesticfarm.ca

Water buffalo meat, milk, cheese, lamb, free-range eggs Fri–Sun 10–5 or by appointment; online order for farm pickup; delivery available

14

Maple Grove Farm and Market

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK Mulmur 936215 Airport Rd

Chris and Robyn Wallace 705-435-5386

maplegrovefarm.ca

Fresh-baked bread, pies, bakery treats; seasonal fruit and vegetables; readymade, farm-fresh meals Daily 9–7; check website for details and events

48

Mount Wolfe Farm

CSA, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon

10054 Old Church Rd

Crandall/Haney/Showell sisters

647-335-8897

mountwolfefarm.ca

Summer and winter vegetables (non-certified organic) and options to add maple syrup, honey, garlic, eggs, bread, free-range chicken, rainbow trout, seasonal fruit, preserves and more CSA members : weekly or biweekly pickup in summer, biweekly or monthly up to year end

Public : Apr–Nov 9–9, self­serve at farm store; winter season, online ordering with on­farm pickup or delivery service

40

Murphy Meadow Farms

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Mono

793236 3rd Line EHS

Fred, Ian and Elaine Murphy 519-288-5324

murphymeadowfarms.com

Regenerative farm offering grass-fed and -finished beef, raw wildflower honey, farm-fresh free-run eggs

Thu 3–6, Fri 12–5, Sat 9–2; online order through website; text or email to arrange pickup

7

Not So Hollow Farm

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Mulmur

838369 4th Line E

Kyle Regeling notsohollowfarm.ca

Native trees, shrubs and perennials; food forest, permaculture and pollinator plants; honey products

Check website for hours; online sales with farm­gate pickup

8

Ontario Honey Creations

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT,

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Mulmur

938343 Airport Rd

Sarah Allinson-Chorabik 647-400-8507

ontariohoneycreations.com

Raw honey, honeycomb, beeswax, honey sodas, creamed honey; gift boxes, honey favours; on-farm experiences

Check website for store hours; order online for shipping

NA

Owl Dream Farm

OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Orangeville 46 Victoria St

Curtis Lazelle 647-621-5590

owldreamfarm.ca

Microgreens : radish, broccoli, sunflower, pea shoots, mustard, alfalfa, cilantro

Mon–Sun 9–5; pickup and delivery available

26

Peaceful Valley Farm

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Mono 934409 Airport Rd

Brenda Bot and Tom Peters 519-942-1804

peacefulvalleyfarm.ca

Honey, maple syrup, farm-fresh eggs, preserves, baked goods

Fri–Sat 10–4; online order for pickup or delivery to Orangeville

5

Peace Valley Ranch

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ONLINE ORDER

Mulmur

638135 Prince of Wales Rd

Cosack family 519-925-6628

pvrbeef.ca

Premium grass-finished black Angus freezer beef available May, Aug and Oct; sides and mixed quarters custom cut, wrapped and delivered to your door; ranch tours by appointment only CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

36

Providence Meadows FARM GATE

Mono 347122 Mono Centre Rd Curry family 519-942-9505

providencemeadowsfarm @gmail.com

Year-round free-range eggs, seasonal heritage vegetables, pumpkins, maple syrup, chicken, turkey, lamb, whole roasting duck meat

Self­serve or call ahead

51

Pure Caledon Hills Honey FARM GATE

Caledon 17895 Heart Lake Rd

Paul Reader 519-927-3376

purecaledonhillshoney.com

Honey, bee pollen, beeswax, honeycomb Mon–Sat 8–6

1

519-8 21-2763 / info @ vanharten.com vanharten.com

Lloyd Brown Tree Services

Purple Hill Lavender Farm AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT,

7484 6/7 Nottawasaga Siderd Emma, Jessica and Brian Greasley purplehilllavender.com

Dried lavender bouquets, lavender-infused home

check website for hours

68

31

Rebecca’s Kitchen ONLINE ORDER

Grand Valley 70 Amaranth St W

Rebecca Landman 519-216-9795

rebeccaskitchen.ca

Also at More Than Just Baskets, Creemore Coffee Company, Round Hill Farms

Granola, jams, pickles, relishes and local goodies; cooking and canning workshops By appointment only; pickup available

65

Riverdale Farm & Forest

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE

Inglewood 15707 McLaughlin Rd

Owen Goltz 905-588-0085

riverdalefarmandforest.ca

Seasonal vegetables, biochar, wood vinegar, compost, tea extracts, eco tours and workshops

Jun–Oct

52

Rock Garden Farms

• Hydro line clearing

• Aerial lift services

• Tree risk assessment

• Tree pruning & removals

Queensmere Farms

FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE Caledon 15505 Centreville Creek Rd

Val and Nicholas Brooksbank 289-231-2180

queensmerefarms.ca

Farm eggs, honey, chickens, Galloway beef, maple syrup, vegetables, fruit, apothecary and refillery soaps and cleaners

ON-FARM STORE, YOU PICK Caledon East 16930 Airport Rd

Iuglio and Galati families 905-584-9461

rockgardenfarms.ca

Mon–closed, Tue–Fri 9–6, Sat 9–5, Sun 10–5

Fresh fruit, vegetables, free-range eggs, maple syrup, homemade preserves, sauces, home-baked pies, garden centre Apr–Nov : 8–7 daily; holidays 8–5; for curbside pickup, check website

NA

Rock View Farms

ONLINE ORDER

Mono

Mitch and Kate McReavy

519-217-8623

rvfmonocentre.com

Naturally raised, pastured meats: beef, chicken, pork By appointment only; pickup available

21

Sheldon Creek Dairy AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Adjala

4300 Concession Rd 5 den Haan family

705-434-0404

sheldoncreekdairy.ca

Also at many local retailers –check map on website for locations

Milk, cream, yogurt, kefir, sour cream, cheese, ice cream, flavoured milks, meat, preserves; seasonal dairy bar

10–6 daily; online ordering available (check website) for pickup and home delivery

NA

Sola Gratia Farm

ONLINE ORDER

Melancthon

Griffith family

519-288-5678

solagratiafarm.ca

Organically grown vegetables; pastured chicken, turkey; chicken and duck eggs; handmade soap; natural ice cream; einkorn and gluten-free baking; einkorn sourdough bread Visit website for online orders

15

Summerland Farms

FARM GATE

Amaranth

375557 6th Line

Diana Wood and Mike Olynyk

705-435-8115

@summerlandfarmsontario

Eggs, seasonal veggies, herbs, flowers, lavender, maple syrup, plants, split wood, wood crafts, pumpkins

Open seasonally :

Wed–Sun 10–8, May long weekend–Nov 1

12

Toad Hole Farm

FARM GATE

Mulmur 587448 10 Siderd

Niels Pearson

519-760-3860

ned696@hotmail.com

100% grass-fed and -finished beef

Call or text to arrange pickup or free home delivery

50

Valleybrook Farm

ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 18178 Horseshoe Hill Rd

David Jackson

905-460-4662

blackcow@sympatico.ca

Grass-fed and -finished black Angus beef

By appointment only; call ahead; phone order, pickup and delivery available

77

Van Dyken Farm

YOU PICK

Caledon 14510 Gore Rd

Van Dyken brothers

905-857-3561

Beans, eggplant, onions, peas, peppers, rapini, tomatoes, zucchini

Call for hours and availability

• Rainbow, Speckled and Brown trout, various sizes, available year-round.

• Bass, sunfish and perch, limited supplies, available from July 1st.

CONSULTATIONS

• Is your pond having issues – algae, weeds, etc? Biologist with 40 years of experience provides long-term

•

•

•

•

CRAFT BEVERAGES

39

Adamo Estate Winery

ON-FARM RESTAURANT, ON-FARM STORE

Mono 793366 3rd Line EHS

519-942-3969

adamoestate.com

Also at cabin, Babbo Wine Bar and Patio, select restaurants

Small-batch boutique winery featuring retail shop, tasting bar, lunch and dinner service, patio, event and meeting spaces, scenic year-round views; award-winning wines

Check website, as hours change through the summer, and to book event spaces

70

Badlands Brewing Company

ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 13926 Chinguacousy Rd

Troy Baxter, Michael Nuttall, Grace Wilkinson

badlandsbrewing.ca

Beer on tap, beer to go, live music, food truck

Summer hours from June : Fri 12–5 on­site consumption, pickup; Sat 12–6 on­site consumption, food, pickup, live music 2–4; Sun 12–6 on­site consumption, food, pickup; local delivery

47

Caledon Hills Brewing Company

OFF-FARM RETAIL, ON-FARM RESTAURANT, ONLINE ORDER

Palgrave 17219 Hwy 50 416-988-2003

caledonhillsbrewing.com

Also at local pubs and restaurants, the Beer Store, liquor stores (check website) Vienna Lager, Bohemian Pilsner, Kölsch, Summer Solstice, Mango Wheat, Mexican Cervesa, Cream Ale and more; food available in brew pub dining room and on patio

Check website for hours; contact­free delivery available (check website)

16

Escarpment Gardens

OFF-FARM RETAIL, ONLINE ORDER

Mono 487151 30 Siderd

Joey Lemieux escarpmentgardens.ca

Also at Shelburne Foodland, Harmony Whole Foods Market, Tottenham Health Foods and Orangeville Farmers’ Market

Certified Naturally Grown herbal teas

By appointment only; order through website for farm­gate pickup

60

GoodLot Farmstead Brewing Co.

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ON-FARM RESTAURANT, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 18825 Shaws Creek Rd

Gail and Phil Winters 519-927-5881

goodlot.beer

On tap at select local restaurants, bars; also available at select LCBOs across Ontario

Organic hop farm and solarpowered brewery with barn tasting room, beer gardens, live music, local food, walking trails and disc golf course

Year­round : Thu–Fri 3–8, Sat 12–8, Sun and holiday Mon 12–7; Summer only : Wed 3–8; province­wide delivery available

58

Heartwood Farm & Cidery

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, FARM GATE, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Erin 5438 2nd Line

Brent Klassen and Val Steinmann 416-527-4352

heartwoodfarm.ca

Small-batch craft cider, grassfed beef, maple syrup, honey and other seasonal products; regenerative farming experiences, workplace off-site retreats, farm “glamping” overnight stays

Order online for pickup or delivery; check website to book seasonally varying on­farm experiences

25

Mono Centre Brewing ON-FARM STORE

Mono 388113 Mono Centre Rd Zach Gammage 519-943-0055

monocentrebrewing.ca

Also at area restaurants

Craft beer brewed on site, tasting room, live music 2–5 every Sun Wed 12–6, Thu–Fri 12–7, Sat 11–7, Sun 11–6

MARKET

NA

Pommies Cider Co.

OFF-FARM RETAIL Caledon

Lindsay and Nick Sutcliffe 1-844-623-2330

pommies.com

At LCBO, bars, restaurants, Loblaws, Sobeys, other grocery stores

Pommies Original Cider, Pommies Farmhouse Cider, Pommies Mimosa Cider

Mon–Fri 9–5

46

Sonnen Hill Brewing ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER

Caledon 20727 Heart Lake Rd

sonnenhill.com

Easy-drinking beer, lagers, ales and fruit beer; on-site bottle shop, tasting room, beer garden and walking trail, summer food pop-ups

Taproom, bottle shop, beer garden : Fri–Sun (check website for hours); pickup and delivery available

64

Spirit Tree Estate Cidery

AGRI-ENTERTAINMENT, ON-FARM RESTAURANT, ON-FARM STORE, ONLINE ORDER, YOU PICK Caledon 1137 Boston Mills Rd 905-838-2530

spirittreecider.com

Feast Ontario certified Farm Shoppe : cider, artisan breads, pastries, pies; Bistro : pizza and locally inspired dishes; Cider Gardens : live music in summer; cidery tours

Wed, Thu 10–5; Fri–Sun 10–9; accessible; pickup available

FARMERS’ MARKETS

A

Creemore Farmers’ and Craft Market

Sat 9–1 : May 23–Oct 31 Outdoor market at Station on the Green 10 Caroline St E creemorefarmersmarket.ca

B

Grand Valley Farmers Market

Fri 3–8 : Sep 18

Grand Valley Agricultural Society Fairgrounds 60 Main St N (south parking lot) facebook.com/ grandvalleyfarmersmarket

C

Orangeville Farmers’ Market Sat 8–1 : May 9–Oct 17 Second Street and Broadway orangevillefarmersmarket.ca

C

Orangeville Winter Farmers’ Market

Sat 9–1 : Oct 31–Apr 24, 2027

Orangeville Town Hall 87 Broadway orangevillefarmersmarket.ca

D

Erin Farmers’ Market Thu 3–6:30 : Jun 18–Sep 24 Erin Fairgrounds Agri-Dome 184 Main St erinfarmersmarket.ca

TURNING THE ORDINARY INTO THE EXTRAORDINARY

A Caledon East father­ daughter team transforms found wood into works of art

BY TONY REYNOLDS

IN A SMALL BASEMENT SHOP, FATHER and daughter stand back-to-back, focused on their work. Two lathes hum, chips fly off the tools’ cutting edges, and fine wood dust drifts like smoke. Protected by smocks and face masks, Lawrence and Lucy Kristan are creating new shapes out of old wood. The two have worked together for many years.

When Lawrence was 18, he joined a company that made trophies and worked his way up to become vice-president before striking out on his own. “I started LDL Wood Products and we were strictly woodworking,” he says.

The company was successful, creating items such as wooden plaques, clocks and

desk accessories, among many others. It also manufactured matching bases for trophies to make room for more engraved plates. That’s where Lucy’s skill shone.

“I was one of those kids who followed my dad into the shop right from the word go,” Lucy says. “So when the business started, I was in there as often as possible, after school and weekends. I went to college for accounting, and worked the summer at the shop and never left.”

Lawrence encouraged her to focus on finishing, and she became adept. “I enjoyed it,” she says, “but the really nice part was I got to work on restoring trophies for the Hockey Hall of Fame and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.”

A little more than two decades in, and despite the company’s success, Lawrence realized that customers were moving to offshore suppliers, so he decided to retire. That’s when he set up his basement shop – just for fun.

Because the company’s equipment had never included lathes, he had always turned to an outside supplier for this work. But he had an enduring interest in turning wood.

So for his basement shop, he bought a lathe that he soon replaced with a more powerful model. He also bought a second lathe, one suited for more delicate work.

Lawrence learned basic wood turning at workshops presented by Lee Valley Tools and refined his skills at meetings of the Toronto Woodturners Guild, where Lucy joined him.

“We went every month, Lucy and I,” he says, “and they’d have a demonstrator with tricks and tips that were really interesting.”

www.nak-cabinets.ca www.sinovi.ca

Both learned well. Over the years, Lucy and Lawrence have each won several first-place awards in the guild’s annual competitions. They now call their work Inspirations, Wood Turnings Inspired by Nature.

Their raw material is primarily wood collected from the Caledon area. “We already have two or three people who have to cut down trees after the ice storm,” says Lawrence. “We also know an arborist who has some stuff I need.” If that’s not enough, he often goes walking to pick up fallen branches that inspire him.

Lucy, on the other hand, likes seeing what she can make of the offcuts. “I keep pulling stuff out of the firewood bin,” she laughs. “My husband, Derek, is paranoid because he doesn’t know what he can burn.”

The pieces the two turn out are as varied as their raw material: little birds and delicate Christmas decorations; breathtaking bowls of different sizes and shapes, some painted, some plain, created from flaming box elder and other hardwoods; and dramatic deep vases with streaks of bark running through them.

Prices range from $25 for bottle stoppers to $200 to $300 for the larger pieces. They are regularly available at Dragonfly Arts on Broadway in Orangeville and at the King Street Gallery in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Lucy is working on new designs for forthcoming shows. From July 1 to August 2, the Kristans’ works will be featured in an exhibit titled Wonder in the Woods in the Headwaters Arts Gallery at the Alton Mill Arts Centre.

Lucy lives just three doors away from her dad’s Caledon East home and usually walks over to the downstairs shop. “I’m here pretty much every day, depending on what I’m interested in or what needs to be done,” she says. “We work three hours, maybe four when it’s Christmas decoration time.”

For Lawrence, Lucy’s companionship is important. “We don’t talk much,” he says, “but the company is nice to have.” Lucy adds, “Sometimes I’ll say I need to bring you over for a consultation, to talk about one of the projects. That’s what’s fun … figuring out how to create a design or make the most of a piece of wood.”

Artist Marnie Cooke, whose interpretive, impressionistic paintings are inspired by nature, will join them for the show, as will aspiring wildlife photographer William Mitchell, Lawrence’s grandson, Lucy’s nephew and a recent graduate of the Niagara College photography program. With pride, Lucy notes that last year, William’s photo of a silver fox was featured in a special issue of Canadian Geographic magazine.

Tony Reynolds is a freelance writer who lives happily above Broadway in Orangeville.

ROCK SOME GEODE EARRINGS, UPCYCLE YOUR STYLE AND DISCOVER GORGEOUS INDIGENOUS PATTERNS THIS SUMMER

BY EMILY DICKSON

BEAUTY HIDES INSIDE

The outside of a geode – a hollow rock structure inside which mineral crystals form – may be dull and rough, but crack them open and you’ll find dazzling formations of quartz, amethyst or calcite. Jeweller Anne-Marie Warburton of Gallery Gemma transforms them into eye-catching earrings. “You just never know what’s going to be inside a geode,” she says. “Some are duds, but some have this magnificent crystal inside. Nature is just so wonderful.”

Warburton, who has been a jeweller for two decades, travels to Arizona every winter to look for the brightest and most beautiful geodes to wow her customers at her studio inside the Alton Mill Arts Centre. “And that’s always been our goal, to make something you can’t find anywhere else.” (Geode earrings, from $125 to $150, Gallery Gemma)

THE DENIM IS IN THE DETAILS

Denim jackets, leather hats and bags get a glow up once Connie Brocklebank gets her hands on them. The maker behind Creations by Brocs uses remnants of materials like leather, lace, cloth and tassels to turn blah into beautiful. Sometimes a small addition like a stripe of colour or an embellishment is all that’s needed to upcycle a piece. Others act as a canvas for a one-of-a-kind design, such as a moody mountain or a Canadian flag. Brocklebank sources her items from consignment or thrift stores so each is unique, but also takes orders to upcycle clients’ favourite pieces. She works from her in-home studio in Erin, by appointment only. (Custom denim jackets from $85 to $175, Connie Brocklebank)

HERITAGE THREADS

Loons, hummingbirds, turtles and feathers are just some of the distinctive motifs adorning the tote bags, book jackets and e-reader sleeves hand-sewn by Andrea Sudak of Spirited Creations by AMS. This Caledon resident says she is “especially drawn to designs that feature Turtle Island as they represent a deep connection between all people while honouring our Earth.”

Sudak sources the fabric from an Indigenous-owned company which promotes patterns designed by various First Nations artists. She donates part of her proceeds to the food bank of the Henvey Inlet First Nation, an Ojibwe band in Parry Sound her family hails from. Find her handiwork at BookLore in Orangeville or order online. (Book lover’s bundle from $60, Spirited Creations by AMS and BookLore)

SOURCES

Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen Street West, Alton. 519-941-9300. altonmill.ca

BookLore, 121 First Street, Orangeville. 519-942-3830. booklore.ca

Creations by Brocs, Erin. IG @conniebrocklebank

Gallery Gemma, 1402 Queen Street West, Alton. 519-938-8386. gallerygemma.com

Spirited Creations by AMS, Caledon. spiritedcreationsbyams.com

We are a privately-owned veterinary service with a team-based approach to individualized, whole-horse care.

Our team is dedicated to providing quality support for every stage of your horse’s life, from advanced sports medicine and reproductive services, to routine wellness and preventative care.

SPORTS MEDICINE

• Performance, soundness, gastrointestinal & cardiorespiratory assessments

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REPRODUCTIVE SERVICES

• Breeding soundness evaluation

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ROUTINE WELLNESS

• Annual exams & vaccines

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We’re proud to take a collaborative approach, working closely with other equine professionals – farriers, RMTs, chiropractors, and referring veterinarians – to ensure your horse receives the most comprehensive and individualized care.

rivendellequine.com @rivendell_equine Rivendell Equine Veterinary Services

GARDEN-INSPIRED FLATBREAD AND LOCAL FLAVOURS ANCHOR AN EASY SUMMER SPREAD

BY ELAINE LI AND TRALEE PEARCE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELAINE LI

A bloomingdelicious

fter a long, chilly spring, many of us rushed to dust off outdoor furniture and share a meal with family and friends en plein air. And while the barbecue has long dominated the summer dining discourse, In The Hills’ resident food expert and recipe developer, Elaine Li, proposes keeping the propane turned off in favour of a grazable, garden-inspired spread once in a while.

Elaine created a menu that orbits a delightfully vegetable-heavy flatbread – with an assist from local produce and purveyors of dips, yogurts and hummus. Editor Tralee Pearce pressed Elaine for the inside scoop on the work that went into developing the recipe and the rest of the menu. And why it meets the moment this summer.

TRALEE PEARCE: I regret not being in your kitchen to “oversee” this photo shoot and offer my tasting services! Tell me, do you see this flatbread as the centrepiece to a summer patio lunch? Or maybe a cocktail party? This menu seems very flexible.

ELAINE LI: I think these are perfect for any summer gatherings – they look impressive, but are super easy to put together ahead of time. Or even better, make these with your kids or guests and let everyone contribute to the design! I think it fits very well with how people like to host now – less formal and more interactive, built around grazing and sharing.

TP: And who needs décor when these look like art? Where did you get the idea? What kinds of designs work best?

EL: I love the idea of “flower bouquet focaccia” that you see all over Instagram and Pinterest, and have been wanting to try it. Typically, these recipes use cherry tomatoes and large bell pepper rings as flower crowns, and parsley stems as flower stems. But after a few test runs, I realized what looks beautiful before baking

doesn’t always hold up after. In my opinion, a good focaccia should be light and fluffy with big air pockets, but that rise caused the floral designs to sink and stretch out of shape.

The large decorative elements and stems also made it difficult to slice the finished bread, and each slice had an uneven amount of toppings – it’s just not practical! No wonder there aren’t many photos of sliced flower focaccia online.

So I rethought the design entirely, and decided to use smaller, evenly spaced toppings that still feel whimsical but are easy to bake, slice and enjoy. And I swapped in pizza dough.

TP: Why pizza dough?

EL: Pizza dough is sturdy enough to hold the topping designs, but still feels light to eat. My go-to recipe is from the famous Vermont-based King Arthur Baking Company. It’s also easy to find pre-made pizza dough in grocery stores if you’re looking for a shortcut.

TP: What’s the trick to getting the toppings to hold up enough to make the pattern you envisioned last?

EL: Choose toppings that cook as fast as the dough. Keep the pieces bite sized and evenly spaced. Use a spread on the dough as a “glue” to hold everything

Starting with rolledout pizza dough, Elaine Li dimples the surface with her fingers, spreads it with pesto, then arranges the toppings into a garden pattern.

in place. I used a homemade pea shoot pesto, but you can experiment with romesco dip or other storebought varieties. Nothing screams “summer” more than tomatoes to me, and the pea shoot pesto adds a depth of flavour to the flatbread.

TP: Tell me about the accompaniments. Are you surprised at how many local products you found?

EL: I used pea shoots from Orangeville’s Owl Dream Farm to make a pesto (I got the idea from a pea shoot pasta recipe on their website). It’s great not only as a base on the flatbread but also as a dip.

The finished flatbread is a versatile canvas for all sorts of dips and spreads. I love incorporating local products when hosting. It’s a great conversation starter, and a good way to support small producers, of course.

I have a few local gems I recommend: plant-based dips and spreads made with cultured sunflower seeds from Orangeville’s Humble Seedz; coconut yogurt from Hockley’s Simpla to make a savoury yogurt dip; authentic hummus and baba ganoush from Rasmi’s Falafel (a vendor at Orangeville Farmers’ Market); and extra virgin olive oil from Olive Oil Co, which started in Barrie and is available at More Than Just Baskets. (And to take advantage of all the fresh produce in season from our local farms, read the Headwaters Farm Fresh Guide on page 51.)

TP: Now, any other pro tips for readers?

EL: Don’t overthink the design. I personally like a simple repeating pattern with just two to three colours. It makes the design look cohesive. If something looks a little imperfect, just call it “rustic chic”!

Pizza-Flatbread Dough

Makes one 9 x 14 ­inch flatbread

Adapted from King Arthur Baking Company

INGREDIENTS

1 tsp active dry yeast

1/2 cup water, room temperature

2 tbsp olive oil, divided

1 1/2 cup bread flour, plus extra for dusting

3/4 tsp (4g) table salt

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in water.

Add 1 tbsp olive oil, flour and salt. Mix and knead everything together by hand, or with a stand mixer at low speed (about 5 minutes) until dough is smooth and no longer sticking to sides of bowl.

Drizzle remaining olive oil into a clean bowl. Place dough inside and turn to coat all sides lightly with oil to prevent drying.

Cover with a damp towel and let rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 90 minutes. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before shaping.

TP: These are perfect for styling a pretty spread or table. Can you share some tips on how hosts can make the most of the look?

EL: Hosting doesn’t have to be complicated to feel memorable: designing a cute pattern on a simple flatbread, dressing up familiar storebought dips with seasonal ingredients, incorporating locally made products to introduce something new to your guests. All these can be very low effort. Make it a self-serve grazing table as opposed to a formal plate. Add dips and fixings (with name tags) around the flatbread and encourage guests to try different combinations.

TP: Tell me about these dips.

EL: I like to elevate prepared hummus or other dips and spreads with finely chopped, seasonal vegetables. They can be easily scooped with bread, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, herb-infused oil or chili oil, a pinch of your favourite spice, and fresh sprouts or herbs for a touch of brightness. Here, I arranged a “flower wreath” on the yogurt dip with spring peas, roasted asparagus and sprouts. And I dressed up hummus with bite-sized Greek salad, perfect for scooping up with your flatbread.

TP: Thank you for the ideas, Elaine. And I’ll remember to invite myself next time.

Fairy Garden Mushroom Flatbread

Makes one 9 x 14 ­inch flatbread

INGREDIENTS

1 pizza dough (page 73) or about 315g (11oz) store ­ bought dough 3 tbsp pea shoot pesto (at right) 8–10 cherry tomatoes seafood mushroom or white onion strips (for “stems”) pea shoots, flaky sea salt for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 425 F (400 F convection).

Punch down risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, flatten and roll dough into an oval shape until it resists stretching. Let rest for 10 minutes to relax dough.

Continue rolling until dough reaches about 9 x 14 inches.

Dimple surface with fingertips.

Spread pesto evenly over dough. Leave it to rise for a second time for about 30 minutes.

While dough is rising, make “mushrooms”: halve cherry tomatoes and trim one end to create rounded “caps”; for stems, cut seafood mushrooms into 1 ­inch pieces, or slice white onions into thin strips.

Arrange caps and stems into your desired pattern.

Bake on lower rack for about 15 minutes or until flatbread is browned to your liking.

Remove from oven and finish with pea shoots and sea salt.

Pea Shoot Pesto

Makes about 1/2 cup (use as a pasta sauce, a flavourful spread for sandwiches, or stirred into dips and salad dressings).

Adapted from Owl Dream Farm

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup pea shoot (packed)

1/2 cup basil leaves (packed)

1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, grated 1 tsp lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS

Blend everything together using an immersion blender or small food processor until smooth. Adjust consistency with a little more olive oil if desired.

Wedges of the flatbread (left) are excellent carriers for either of the dips shown below lemon herb yogurt or loaded hummus.

Lemon Herb Yogurt Dip

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup skyr or Greek yogurt

2 tbsp chopped herbs

(Elaine used basil and dill)

1 tsp lemon zest

2 tsp lemon juice

1/4 tsp table salt

1 clove garlic, grated

1 tbsp olive oil

GARNISHES

green peas, blanched asparagus, grilled sprouts or fresh herbs (Elaine used alfalfa and cilantro sprouts) lemon zest olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine ingredients for dip in a bowl. Arrange blanched peas and grilled asparagus around edge of dip like a spring wreath, garnish with sprouts or herbs. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Loaded Hummus

INGREDIENTS

1 cup hummus

1 ­inch section of cucumber or 1 radish, sliced into rounds

5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered depending on size

5–6 kalamata olives, halved

1 tbsp prepared Greek dressing or a mixture of olive oil, any vinegar and salt pinch smoked paprika to garnish optional additional garnishes: radish sprouts, feta crumble and artichoke hearts

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare “Greek salad” by cutting components into bite ­sized pieces. Lightly dress with Greek dressing or simply olive oil, any vinegar and salt. Arrange on top of hummus. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika to garnish.

WITH CULINARY COLLABS, SMOKY JERK, FRESH-BAKED BREAD AND FIELD-TO-FORK EXPERIENCES, THIS SUMMER THE MENU IS PACKED

BY EMILY DICKSON

In the spotlight: Spice it up

It’s spicy, it’s pungent, it’s jammed full of flavours you can’t quite put your finger on. It’s jerk! But what exactly gives jerk that distinctive and unforgettable taste? At Orangeville’s upscale Jamaican restaurant Chillout Cove, run by husband-and-wife team Michael and Patricia Hall, all the recipes are Patricia’s originals, including the jerk seasoning. Scotch bonnet peppers and ground allspice – the berry of the Jamaican pimento tree – mix and mingle with seasonings like ginger, onion, thyme, nutmeg, scallion and other herbs to create the marinade for chicken, meat and seafood.

After it’s seasoned, the meat is traditionally grilled to bring out that smoky, charred appearance. One of their most popular dishes,

jerk brisket, is slow cooked for 15 hours in a specialized oven with a smoke box. “Real jerk has to have that smoky flavour,” Michael says. “The marinade is the backbone, but the smoking is what finishes it off.” The menu also includes jerk wings, jerk-blackened salmon, and jerk chicken. But, they’ve been careful not to make the spice level too intense. “Some people think ‘It’s gonna kill me, I can’t touch it,’ but here they’ll find that’s not the case,” says Hall. “We want to give you a flavour explosion, not burn you.”

Fans of Jamaican flavours should also check out Fiona’s Cuisine, which moved from its first spot on Highway 10 to a new location in Bolton last year, but is still serving fan favourites like oxtail and beans, fresh seafood, and rice and peas.

Tender, fall­ off­the ­bone jerk wings bring the heat and smoky spice at Chillout Cove (top). They’re balanced by crisp, hand­ cut plantain chips and hummus (left).

BURGER PIT STOP

Healthy Cravings Burger Bus was voted the best burger in Mulmur in 2023, when it was located there. Now based in Creemore, chef Brenda Beattie also serves fried chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches and poutine, plus a gluten-free Dirty Salad which is “everything you want in a burger without the bun.”

A GOOD RIBBING

It’s three days of mouthwatering ribs, beer, live music and family fun at the annual Orangeville Rotary Ribfest July 17 to 19. And while the “ribbers” take centre stage, a lineup of local food trucks adds to the feast. Joe O’Gorman of Paco’s Tacos can attest that it’s a crazy weekend of food and fun. “We’ll put in a 40-hour week in three days,” laughs O’Gorman. “But we love how Ribfest brings the community together.”

FROM YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD BAKERS

Using his father’s 20-year-old sourdough starter, Mono’s Sam Solomon is offering rustic country loaves with “a nice tan crumb that’s a little more rustic than your storebought bread.” Order online through Instagram @sammakesbread for local pickup and delivery in Orangeville and Mono, or find him this summer at the Orangeville and Erin farmers’ markets.

Curry-seeded baguettes, expertly layered bi-coloured croissants, pistachio flan pastries and classic pain au chocolat are coming to Caledon’s Rock Garden Farms, thanks to third-generation family member Stefano Galati’s recent training stint at Ferrandi Paris. Galati described studying culinary arts in France – the only country where baguettes are on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List –as a true adventure that made him “excited to bring new recipes home.”

And if you’re up early on a Saturday morning, snag a freshly baked loaf at Crust and Chaos, a quirky “bread cabin” in Hockley village. Simon Silander, “the 100 Acre Baker” and founder of the original Brick Street Bakery in Toronto’s Distillery District, also serves savoury focaccia, cinnamon buns and Danish pastries. Order online for Saturday pickups.

MARK YOUR CULINARY CALENDAR

Al fresco events are one of the pleasures of summer in the country. Start with the Spruced Summer Solstice dinner, a 10-course meal at Green & Bloom Farm in Laurel on June 20, where Burlington’s “sandwich speakeasy,” Spruced, will create a tasting menu fresh from the farm – including leafy greens, snap peas, early brassicas and crunchy radish – to celebrate the longest day of the year.

At Lennox Farm’s popular field-to-fork dinners, which feature in-season fruits, vegetables and herbs from their farm, and locally sourced ingredients, diners take an immersive culinary journey that encourages conversation, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the land and the people who work it. These events are held monthly from June through October.

Grand Valley chef Jex Paisley of Transcend by Jex Meals will be grilling up a storm at the Streams Community Hub in Shelburne on June 26 for a free Summer Kick­ Off BBQ and Open House, with face painting for kids, live music and other activities.

Mark your calendar for one of the al fresco dining events held at local farms, including Green & Bloom Farm, above, this summer.

Skip breakfast before you head to the Caledon Canada Day and Strawberry Festival on July 1 at the Caledon Village Fairgrounds so you can enjoy the all day strawberry breakfast, desserts, birthday cake, and more.

And on August 25 at GoodLot Farm & Farmstead Brewing Co. in Caledon, toast the United Nations’ International Year of the Woman Farmer at a fundraising event for Headwaters Food and Farming Alliance with some of Headwaters’ most remarkable farmers. headwatersfoodandfarming.ca

IT’S A BREW-TIFUL DAY FOR A COLLAB

Crispy, golden arancini, pillowy gnocchi, wood-fired pizzas, and burgers topped with fried mortadella and provolone are just some of the Italian street-food-inspired bites Sulla Strada will be serving at Mono Centre Brewing Co. this summer. Run by chef Paul Fuda of Orangeville hotspot The Craft Pizza Bar + Italian Kitchen, Sulla Strada – Italian for “on the road” – will be popping up on weekends with a changing menu. Brewery owner Zach Gammage recommends pairing these plates with a pint of Italian-style Headwaters Hopped Pilsner, which he describes as “smooth, clean and very approachable.” There’s also soft serve gelato, sorbetto and affogato espresso.

NEW LOOK, FRESH SPIRIT

A warm wheel of Le Pizy brie from Quebec, topped with a pear-ginger glaze and walnuts, and served with slices of crisp apple and golden crostini is just one of the new plates on Spirit Tree Estate Cidery ’s refreshed bistro menu. Reason to check out the cidery’s swank renovation.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Palgrave United Community Kitchen is hosting two foodfocused summer camps for junior chefs aged 8 to 12 in July and August. The weeklong Dirt to Delicious sessions teach youngsters how to harvest and cook local seasonal produce. Also at the Kitchen, the 2nd Annual Caledon Junior Bake-Off from July 7 to 8 helps hone baking skills.

SMOKE SIGNALS

Smoky. Fruity. Oaky. Coffee? For Dorian Childs of Pitmasters Choice Pellets in Grand Valley, it’s all part of building bold flavour at the grill. His wood pellets, crafted from cherry, sugar maple, hickory, apple and even whisky barrels from Niagara’s Forty Creek Distillery add a depth that gas grills can’t match. A line of spice rubs promises to perk up poultry and cuts of red meat, while the rustic garlic and butter pairs well with veggies. Cowboy Grit, blending ancho chili with finely ground coffee, gives meat a subtle kick. Find the full line at It’s In The Shed in Orangeville along with other retail locations.

GONE WILD

Exotic game sandwiches –including an elk sandwich topped with roasted peppers and arugula – are on the menu at a new downtown Bolton shop and café. Smokin’ Fine Meats offers artisanal cuts you won’t find in the supermarket, such as elk, wild boar and bison, along with a range of smoked and cured salamis and pepperettes.

THE TREASURE HUNTER

Julia Grys is always on the lookout for vintage finds and rare antiques that catch her eye – and keep her clients coming back to her Erin shop.

JULIA GRYS HAS ALWAYS BEEN a treasure hunter. Indeed, her first job, at the age of 15, was as a cashier at Value Village where she marvelled at donated treasures, especially mint condition dresses from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. Now, as she makes the rounds of thrift stores and flea markets, she trains her practised eye on diamonds in the rough destined to be cherished in a new household.

We tagged along with the energetic shopkeep on a recent workday spent sourcing new finds and preparing them for her shop The Swan, located in Erin’s Rural Commons.

BY JANICE QUIRT

7:30 A.M. Wakes up, has coffee and snuggles with her girls, nine and three, and chats with her husband, Dave, who works in cybersecurity.

8:30 A.M. With the kids off to daycare and school, Grys sits down to answer customer inquiries and place orders for the shop’s home and refill sections, selecting organic, local items, usually brands she uses herself at home. The focus is on basic supplies, including hand and dish soap, compostable kitchen sponges and wooden dish brushes not available elsewhere in Erin. She opened The Swan as a

pop-up shop in Rural Commons, a retail and co-working collective, two years ago. It went so well, she signed up for a permanent spot and recently moved to a larger spot.

“I opened the store I wanted to shop at, as I would rather not order online,” Grys says, adding that she ran an online vintage store on Etsy for five years. After working for the Orangeville BIA and meeting numerous small business owners, she realized she could join their ranks and open a bricks-and-mortar store, complete with the social interaction she craved.

9:30 A.M. It’s time to head slightly out of town to meet a customer selling several heirloom items. Grys comes back with a 1920s vanity, a few special books and a midcentury Remington typewriter.

The treasure hunter often has a theme in mind when she goes antiquing, especially when curating collections for different times of the year. “Fall is cozy – vintage mugs are popular. Winter centres around the traditional December holidays, spring introduces soft, pretty colours and florals, and summer tends to lean into nautical themes, especially décor for the cottage.”

10:30 A.M. The thrift stores in Georgetown beckon – favourites are Wastewise Community Resource Centre, the two Salvation Army Thrift Stores, and the Upper Credit Humane Society Thrift Shop. Grys lived in Georgetown for five years before moving to Erin in 2016, so these are old stomping grounds. On this trip she snags two lovely baskets, a copper pot set, an elegant frame featuring the portrait of a woman, a classic floral comforter and antique riding boots from Eaton’s department store, earmarked for a Western-themed window display when the RAM Rodeo is in town in July.

“My tips for shopping at thrift stores are to go often and with an open mind,” she says. “One day there may be nothing and the next day, treasure.” When it comes to antique markets with multiple vendors, Grys advises having a specific item or style in mind, or else it can be overwhelming.

She is always on the hunt for something she hasn’t seen before –a one-of-a-kind piece her customers aren’t going to find anywhere else. “My favourite thing is when a customer has a real connection to an item. You can see their eyes light up and feel that spark of joy. Often it is from nostalgia – the item reminds them of their childhood. It’s really rewarding.”

People tend to love pieces to adorn their shelves, such as figurines, brass, and book stacks in particular colours.

1:30 P.M. While heading back home, Grys stops at one of her favourite local spots, the Tin Roof Café in Erin, for a coffee and lunch.

2 P.M. Grys arrives at the store. Her refurbishment of furniture or textiles takes place at home, but all other items are prepared for merchandising at the shop. Grys washes dishware, polishes metal and performs small repairs.

“I can price the small décor pieces pretty easily – I’ve been doing this for a while now, and I recognize the pottery and silver markings, although I do have a wonderful book that I can refer to if necessary,” she says. Some pieces require further research, like the typewriter, so Grys turns to

trusted websites to identify the age of the piece and current market value. She’ll also test it out to let customers know the working condition and be transparent about any issues.

The Swan features numerous vignettes with a blend of new and older items, from linen pillows to patterned glassware. “I love to showcase how these character pieces can work in people’s homes, which are usually a blend of both, just like in my century home,” she says. “That’s what makes a space unique and gives it soul: a mix of new, collected and inherited items that tell your story.” Some rearrang ing is required to accommodate the items uncovered today.

3 P.M. It’s time to play barista, serving espresso to a customer browsing one of the other shops inside Rural Commons. As members of a retail collective, everyone pitches in.

3:30 P.M. Grys pauses work on the visual merchandising of her new finds to help a customer pick out a few cushions. She also assists at the refillery station and answers a question about the age of a mirror.

4 P.M. Once all the new items are out on display, Grys takes photos and videos for her Instagram account (@the swan vintage) to show her customers what’s new, as well as serve as a visual inventory of her stock over time.

5 P.M. Closing time. Grys picks her daughter up from daycare and heads home to make dinner. Her husband, who works from home, is available for after-school child minding. On days when she doesn’t pick up her daughter, Grys can walk or bike to work.

6 P.M. Dinner time. Favourites include salmon or meatballs with rice, or takeout from a local restaurant like Pho Erin on Main Street. “Family time is really important to me, so I try my best not to work after five, but I will occasionally zip out to pick up a Facebook Marketplace find or respond to social media comments.”

UNDERSTANDING HEADWATERS

How four watersheds shape this region.

BY TONY REYNOLDS • ILLUSTRATION BY RUTH ANN PEARCE

two conferences aimed at raising awareness of the environmental significance of these headwaters, which inspired the town’s slogan: The Heart of the Headwaters. Mono also trademarked the name “Headwaters,” although the town has not strictly enforced its right to license its use. A good thing, for many local community groups and businesses have adopted the name and made it their own.

Each of the four watersheds is currently managed by a local conservation authority, though this will change as the Ontario government proceeds with its planned restructuring of these provincial agencies (see page 37).

How the waters flow

The Grand River rises – in part – in Mono and Melancthon before meandering through Grand Valley, Amaranth and East Garafraxa on its way to Lake Erie. Mono, Amaranth, Melancthon and Mulmur are home to some of the headwaters of the Nottawasaga River, which eventually reaches Wasaga Beach on Georgian Bay, part of Lake Huron.

Some of the headwaters of the Humber River originate in Mono and Caledon before joining the main branch to flow into Lake Ontario via Toronto. And tributaries of the Credit River rise in Mono, Orangeville, Erin and Caledon before the river flows south to drain into Lake Ontario at Port Credit.

In the 1990s, Mono Township – now the Town of Mono – acknowledged its unique position as home to some of the headwaters of all four rivers by hosting

As the earth cooled about a billion years ago, a wrinkle in the magma formed under much of the area now dubbed “Headwaters.” Saltwater seas and freshwater lakes left layers of coral, clay and sand that mile-high glaciers compressed into stone. When the last ice melted, the water carried off soft layers, scoured deep valleys and left Dufferin County perched more than 500 metres above sea level, making it the second-highest elevation in southern Ontario and inspiring its nicknames: “the high county” and “the roof of Ontario.”

Ever since, the wind has carried warm, humid air from nearby lakes and far-off oceans upwards to higher and colder elevations. As this air cools, the humidity condenses into rain and snow. Dufferin County alone averages about 900 millimetres of precipitation a year. That’s a lot of water and it must go somewhere!

Where the precipitation falls determines which

Great Lake is its destination. A raindrop that falls on the crown of Dufferin County Road 11, for instance, may flow off to the west and end up in Lake Erie. If it falls to the east, it goes to Georgian Bay.

How things have changed

Today, the water flow is different from that encountered by early settlers. Melting snow and heavy rains run off the land more quickly, so that spates now dwindle to trickles that, in some places, may nearly dry up in summer. Before settlers started clearing land for farming, there was more forest and wild land to absorb the precipitation and mete it out evenly.

Other changes have also occurred. The rivers are warmer due to less shade and because much of the runoff flows from hot paved parking lots, rooftops and roads, to say nothing of the detritus it picks up along the way.

Years ago, late local naturalist Shelly Anderson told In The Hills that, by the 1930s, so many trees had been cut down that the soil of Headwaters was blowing away. “In some places the wind was blowing the sand out onto the road so deep you couldn’t go through it with a car,” he said.

And without trees to help moderate runoff during storms, flash floods were also an issue. So the community, including schoolchildren, ramped up reforestation efforts. In fact, records show that up to the mid-1960s, nearly 18 million trees went into the ground in Dufferin County alone.

Continuing efforts to conserve trees and wild areas will help secure the future of the precious watersheds that originate in these hills and give Headwaters its name.

PLANTING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

BY BETHANY LEE • ILLUSTRATION BY SHELAGH ARMSTRONG

THE SUN IS GLOWING ONTO THE WEST SIDE of the house as I putter my way back into the garage. Its pretty pink flush matches my rosy cheeks, cold to the touch from several hours of winter clean-up.

I’ve been out in the back, bent and bundling branches, snapped off over the many winter storms we endured, some arrowed so sharply and deeply into the ground that they’ll be stuck there until the ground loosens more. I’ve tentatively checked under the dried stems and leaves left matted from last year, covering the ditch lilies and tulip bulbs and wee grape hyacinths. Little white shoots are curling up and I’m elated. It always feels like a miracle when the growth starts in any garden, grand or meagre. Mother Nature shows us that life is possible again. As the first bulbs start to unfurl, so do I.

Last year my husband, Derrick, and I dug around some of the rockery we had installed to finish the driveway and parking area, adding some plants –lavender, some creeping baby junipers with tiny blue berries on them, a lone peony, and boxwood here and there to add form. I put in vibrant daffodils and

tulips that came up this spring. It was a small but valiant effort. And as the sun sets today, I unfold with a cup of tea on the rocks and consider how these skimpy offerings might fill the space in the years

I yearn for the fragrances of my youth, to be able to pick berries or fruit, to run my hands along soft petals with my scissors in hand to cut a loose bouquet for the table.

ahead, to become a lush and inviting entrance to the backyard. Sigh. I enjoy the view, but it’s feeling quite sparse and not like my mom’s gardens of the past. How did she cultivate such beautiful and lush peonies, hydrangeas and hostas the size of my body?

Rhubarb to make pies and jams for the winter days? Lovely and fragrant English roses, David Austin being her favourite? How could I nudge this patchy bit to a Royal Botanical alleyway greeting me and my guests?

Well, part of my problem is that I keep moving. I’ve been around this postal code in over five houses now, with many renovations inside, but not too many outside. The birds twitter around and I am often overheard saying, “Just leave it for the birds” –an excuse for no real plan to trim or upgrade the gardens or the elements within them. I think about how I’m so controlled in my work life, and so mentally full by the end of the day, that I haven’t felt like I have much room to blossom in this way. Yet I yearn for the fragrances of my youth, to be able to pick berries or fruit, to run my hands along soft petals with my scissors in hand to cut a loose bouquet for the table. I spent an afternoon at Mono’s Valhaven Farm at the end of last summer, and their dahlias and greens awoke me to something I’ve truly been missing.

I snipped as many of the vibrant flowers as I could, greedy for what I’d been neglecting. It took my mom years – decades, really – to cultivate her gardens. She split her plants every spring with her sharp shovel and cold, gardengloved hands so her yields would multiply. She wheeled barrows of decomposed horse manure across yards, dumping and then scraping into protective and nourishing piles around, but not too close to, plant roots. And when she and my dad moved, she gathered seeds and cuttings to bring her garden with her. Several of her father’s prized roses from his house on Crosland Drive in Toronto came to her garden. The plants lived on for years, until she was no longer able to care for them, and then they lived on for the next owners.

So this year, I’m trying to follow in her and my grandfather’s footsteps with a more significant investment of time and energy. One wicked winter day a few months ago, I went in to pay my taxes at the Town of Mono office. The cheerful town staff took my card payment, and away I went with the latest newsletter in hand. Spring Seedlings Sale, it advertised! Yes, exactly what I needed to kickstart me. I went online and cruised through the photos and descriptions, and placed my order. Now, I am just about to start on the planting journey from my haul of about two dozen seedling trees and bushes, mostly fruit-bearing. I have a dream of being able to pick a few berries, perhaps a year or two down the road. The reality is I may not even live here in a year or two. The property needs love and botanical attention, and I suddenly feel obligated to help it along. To bring it to life. These gardens won’t grow themselves, I can hear my mom saying.

As soon as the seedlings arrive, I will grab some gloves to warm my hands just enough to tolerate the cold. I’ll follow instructions and place them carefully around the open space, digging in with my sharp shovel. It will be slow magic, their roots growing deep, divining for water and nutrients. I want to stay forever, to see that orchard, but I may not. Regardless, it will be here for the next generation, my little entrance garden and small orchard with fruit and berries.

THE FAMILY NEST

How a couple’s designer daughter helped them merge modern and traditional design in their sprawling country home in Erin. The standout gardens? A bonus they discovered during their first spring there.

BY ALISON McGILL

FOR LONGTIME CITY DWELLERS

Jolie Lin and Ian Crosbie, country life was something they originally envisioned being their part-time retreat when they purchased their 12-acre property in Erin in 2012. Both lawyers with careers firmly anchored in Toronto, Jolie and Ian were looking for a place to escape to and reset on weekends and holidays with their three young adult daughters, Megan, Nathalie and Julianne, and to entertain extended family and friends. Though the family enjoyed spending time at a family-owned Haliburton cottage dating back to the 1930s, Jolie says over time the three-hour drive

north became a grind. This was the main motivation for finding a leisure property of their own closer to home.

“We decided a country home that was very accessible to Toronto made more sense for us,” Jolie shares. “Originally, we started to look in Prince Edward County, but also found the travel time was a bit too long. We loved the rolling landscapes of Halton Hills and Headwaters and decided to make the area a focal point of our search, trading lakefront views for acreage.”

The couple estimates the search for the perfect country bolthole took over six months, and admits it was thanks to

a knowledgeable insider – their eldest daughter, residential interior designer Megan Crosbie, that they finally landed on their Erin homestead. As the principal at Toronto-based Megan Crosbie Design for the past decade, Megan’s work has been featured in magazines including Architectural Digest and Toronto Life. “Megan convinced us this was it,” laughs Jolie. “We loved that this place had a combination of old and new which very much appealed to our sense of style.”

The exterior didn’t require much work. With its original stone foundation, faded smoky blue board and

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batten exterior and white wraparound veranda, the house seems “integrated into the colours of the landscape,” says Megan.

Inside, many details suited the new owners. “The layout of the home is beautiful with lots of space for entertaining and hosting guests, which my mom loves to do,” Megan says. “The more public areas of the home have a nice separation from the bedrooms and private spaces. It’s also largely a bungalow, which made sense for my parents as they got older.”

The 3,000-square-foot, six-bedroom is known as the Bird House, a name

inspired by the dozen or more birdhouses on the property, many of them mounted on the property’s graceful mature trees. Though it was meant to be a recreational retreat, the couple soon found they were spending less time at their home in Toronto’s Summerhill neighbourhood. When the pandemic hit, their work routines changed and they began to think about retirement, a shift that also motivated them in 2025 to downsize to a 1,500-square-foot downtown condo.

“The biggest surprise for everyone was how much my dad loved being in Erin,” Megan says. “Nobody, including

him, could have predicted how much he likes being out in the woods or in the garden. If my mom didn’t suggest going to the city, he would be there all the time.”

When Jolie and Ian bought the historic country home, which has bones dating back to the 19th century, they immediately set about transforming it into the tranquil sanctuary it is today. An early project was installing a swimming pool at the

back of the property beside the ruins of the home’s original barn.

Inside, the previous owners had already done extensive restoration and renovation in the early 2000s. The décor was heavy on what Megan describes as “stereotypical farmhouse style,” including lots of yellows, blues and whites, and beadboard wainscotting, which, while charming, was not her parents’ style. “But they worked to respect the heritage of the house while integrating their taste,” says Megan.

The family’s first indoor project was to transform a wing of the house

located off the dining room – an area previously used as a recreation room – into three bedrooms for their daughters.

Megan’s aim was to create a bespoke version of a modern country home that suited her parents’ preferences while bringing out the best of the home and its landscaping. “For a lot of people, the country aesthetic is very vintagefocused, but that has never been my parents’ taste level,” Megan says. “They like things a bit more minimal with clean lines.” Drawing on finishes, colours and elements like marble,

stylish light and plumbing fixtures, and subway tiles, Megan aimed to find a balance between modern and rustic. From the home’s foyer, the heart of the home features a great room, kitchen, and family room, with a dining room tucked to the left.

“This layout was one of the things that struck me as being perfect for my parents who love to host,” Megan says. Most holidays and events are held at the Bird House – including the annual Christmas party Jolie and Ian throw for friends and family – and they frequently have weekend guests. The

couple appreciate how tucked away and separate the bedrooms are from the main area. “There is lots of room to spread out and you don’t feel you are on top of each other, even if there are 13 people staying in the house at once!”

The home’s many windows and skylights deliver a flood of natural light, which allowed Megan to lean into richer earthy colours including stone hues and muted deep green tones. “The colours we used have a lot of depth and a bit of a smoky undertone; nothing is overly bright or crisp. This creates a sense of calmness,”

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says Megan, adding that instead of matching spaces to each other, she matched the undertones “to create a sense of harmony and continuity” throughout the house.

Jolie says every improvement and change they have made to the Bird House has been a decision inspired by creating more space to accommodate larger groups, including the wing of bedrooms for the girls; turning a

spare bedroom into a two-bedroom configuration for when the family gathers for holidays; a full kitchen renovation; and enclosing the outdoor patio, which came with a pizza oven and barbeque, as a screened porch area. “My mom really hates bugs, ” Megan laughs, adding that her dad is “the master smoker, barbecuer and pizza guy.”

Jolie says the extensive gardens have been an absolute delight to discover and develop. They bought the property in winter, so the landscaping wasn’t

revealed until the following spring. And maintaining it became a passion.

“The gardens and landscape are things we have come to love most about our property,” Jolie says. “The perennials that pop up from spring through summer and into fall deliver surprises around every corner, and we owe huge kudos to the last owners for their green thumbs!” The garden boasts Japanese anemones, peonies, poppies, daisies, and black-eyed Susans, to name a few. Jolie points out a cozy fire pit area where they manage

TOP LEFT : One of the first changes Jolie Lin and Ian Crosbie made to the home was screening in an outdoor dining area and pizza oven.

TOP RIGHT : Exposed bricks and original wood flooring lend the bathroom warmth and character.

ABOVE LEFT : Auggie, the family’s English springer spaniel, sits waiting for a shower in the upgraded mud room designed by Megan Crosbie.

ABOVE RIGHT : One of the home’s bedrooms pairs cottage ­like warmth with an abundance of natural light.

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TOP: One of the homeowners’ early projects at the Bird House was installing a swimming pool beside the ruins of the original barn.

ABOVE LEFT : Owner Jolie Lin says the gardens were a delight to discover during her first spring here and “are the things we have come to love most about our property.”

ABOVE CENTRE: Charming birdhouses are dotted throughout the property, giving rise to the home’s moniker, the Bird House.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

the leaves and tree debris. And though maintaining the property is a lot of work, it has given the couple a chance to reconnect with the outdoors. Since moving to the country, not only have Jolie and Ian changed their pace to a calmer, quieter one, they also created a life with a local focus. “We love the feel of small towns like Erin, Glen Williams, Alton, and Rockwood, as well as the easy access to larger

areas like Guelph, Orangeville and Georgetown – we really enjoy the farmers’ market there in the summer,” Jolie says.

The couple also now has two dogs, Auggie, the English springer spaniel, and Cooper, an Australian shepherd border collie mix, who were adopted after moving to Erin and seem to prefer life in the country – especially Auggie, who loves jumping into the property’s ponds to cool off. As Megan notes, a total of five family dogs come together for holiday celebrations.

ABOVE: Hydrangeas and mature trees overlook one of the property’s peaceful ponds, making for a park­like setting.

As someone who always loves a project, Jolie admits she is dreaming of transforming the main floor’s great room – but is trying hard not to turn it into a massive undertaking. It’s this passion for reinvention and a likeminded aesthetic that Megan says makes working with her parents as clients a particular joy.

“My mom has a bit of an addiction when it comes to interiors, which is clearly how I ended up in this career,” Megan laughs. “She excelled at a corporate job, but the home is her

creative outlet.” While working with her parents had some testy moments, Megan believes they defined new boundaries in their professional relationship. She also admires how her parents are equal partners in terms of making decisions. “And they always trust me because they know my work, and they know that I completely understand their taste, which means there is never a lot of guessing.”

Alison McGill is a writer, editor and podcaster who lives in Halton Hills.

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Welcome

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41 PINE RIDGE ROAD, ERIN

A sprawling true bungalow set on 1.47 acres, this property combines estate-style presence with over 6000 sq ft of living space. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and a second lower level kitchen makes this a fantastic multi-generational home.

CALEDON TRAINING CENTRE

Experience the ultimate equestrian facility at this exceptional 46.5-acre horse farm, designed for both serious horse professionals and passionate equine enthusiasts. State-of-the-art equestrian complex complete with a 41-stall main barn, dedicated foaling barn, indoor arena, outdoor ring and a private training track. $12,000,000

CALEDON ESTATE LOT

Private 22-acre residential building lot. Perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Minutes from local amenities and schools. Views to the Toronto Skyline. $1,450,000

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PRIVATE RESIDENCE + AIRFIELD

Grand 150-acre estate. Long gated drive. 3 residences + pool, tennis, pond and miles of groomed trails. Exceptional views. Stables, indoor arena and heated workshop. Peaceful setting with pool and tennis court. $14,900,000

and

$2,399,000

EXECUTIVE 10 ACRES –NEW TECUMSETH

Stunning 6-bdrm, 6-bathrm bungalow north of King offers luxurious living w/ the convenience of nearby amenities. Features a barn w/ paddocks, spacious 35’x60’ shop, a 40’x60’ coverall, inground pool & hot tub. $2,999,000

5 ACRES – SCHOMBERG

Enjoy the tranquility of wide-open spaces, mature trees, and expansive views. Walkout bungalow is ideal for multi-generational living, 5+1 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Hip roof barn, and storage shed ideal for hobby farming.

$1,699,000

MODERN LUXURY – ALLISTON

Breathtaking Forest View Home, crafted by Georgio Lolos Designs with interiors curated by ABella Design Inc. This stunning property is built with an eye for elegance & functionality. A must-see property for those seeking a refined yet comfortable living experience. $1,999,000

FOUR-SEASON LIFESTYLE

Waterfront living in the heart of Wasaga Beach. Updated chalet-inspired home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Detached 1.5-car garage, inground pool with extensive decking and sleek glass railings overlooking the riverfront. $999,500

MILLION-DOLLAR VIEWS

Just minutes to Alliston, this expansive walkout bungalow is set on 40 acres and thoughtfully designed to accommodate multigenerational living. Features two spacious paddocks, a barn complete with hayloft, and a separate workshop. $1,999,000

118-ACRE BISON/BEEF FARM

Two custom homes located just minutes from Alliston. Currently operating as a bison and Texas Longhorn cattle farm. Large bank barn, shop, coverall, and six 32’x360’ grazing sheds. Approximately 80 acres workable.

$4,890,000

custom

RARE BUILDING LOT – MONO

Discover the opportunity to join the exclusive Mono Hills Country Club. Build your dream home overlooking a pristine fairway at this private golf course, ideally located between Highway 9 and Highway 89. $699,000

NATURE’S DOOR IN MONO

33 gorgeous acres with the Nottawasaga River running through it. This exceptional custom-built home offers cathedral ceilings and soaring 19ft floor-to-ceiling natural stone fireplace, loft library and a serene primary suite. Enjoy the pool, gardens, trails and outbuilding with stalls.

$2,949,000

14.5-acre

in Mono. This property offers long panoramic views in every direction. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of Mono’s scenic beauty – perfect for crafting your vision of country living.

$1,099,000

65 ACRES IN THE HILLS OF MULMUR

Fabulous country retreat conveniently located on a paved road. Century home offers 4 bedrooms plus a coach house with 2 bedrooms above 3-car garage. This exceptional property offers a private, park-like setting with scenic walking trails and tranquil ponds.

$1,995,000

Welcome to a fully renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled on an exceptional landscaped conservation lot. Surrounded by mature greenery, this stunning property offers unmatched privacy and a peaceful setting rarely found within town limits.

RELAX AT THE RIVER

Historic character & modern luxury, in the heart of Bolton, backing onto the Humber River. Set on an expansive, park-like lot with lush grdns, outdoor shower & towering trees. The interior boasts a modern kit w/ a large center island, granite counters & open dining area – perfect for hosting family & friends. Liv rm surrounds a beautiful gas fp w/ classic hrdwd flrs & piano nook. The 2nd flr hosts 4 bdrms – the primary has w/o to balcony o/l the river, ens w/ heated flr, the list goes on. $1,499,000

FANTASTIC MULTIPLEX

dining & living area with breakfast counters, 2 bedrooms, a full 4-piece bathroom and ensuite laundry, quality laminate flooring, updated cabinetry and bathroom fixtures, and a ductless heating/cooling unit. $1,699,999

IT STANDS ALONE

Stately century home, over 4000 sq ft of timeless beauty and a massive 164’x187’ lot in the heart of Orangeville! Must be seen to appreciate the classic features including spacious principal rms thruout & elevated ceiling height, original trim, floors & staircases, multiple w/o’s to mature yard and quaint side porch. Upper level offers 3 bdrms, including the primary bdrm w/ its own ensuite bath, plus full 1-bdrm upper level in-law suite, complete w/ kitchen, living/dining

$2,399,999

100-ACRE FARMSTEAD

Located just 5 km from Orangeville and fronting on paved road, this property offers full 100 acres with most being workable farmland, used for rotating crops, pasture and some mixed bush. This working farm offers steel-sided drive shed 40’x80’ cattle barn, 2nd barn with open housing and upper storage loft, water and hydro, new well 2023. There is also a 1-1/2 storey farmhouse, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. An exciting opportunity for farming and future investment. $2,999,900

COUNTRY ROAD TAKE ME HOME

ALTON – CENTURY

Overlooking the lower Mill Pond is this 3-bdrm, 1.5-bath stone residence circa 1881. Sides and backs to forest with privacy and wildlife. Near Millcroft Inn & Spa, the Alton Mill Arts Centre, golf at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley. 10 mins to Orangeville. 1 hr to TO.

CALEDON BUNGALOW

Private, treed 2.89-ac lot featuring a pond, a stream, bush, trails. This 3+2-bdrm, 3-bath raised bungalow has geothermal htg, steel roof, vertical platform lift (elevator) & det approx 24’x30’ outbldg. An ideal property for nature lovers, hobbyists, & ext family living!

CALEDON CUL-DE-SAC

Immaculate 3+1-bdrm bungalow on .86 of acre lot w/ hrdwd flooring & crowns thru/o, a partly fin bsmt w/ sep entry & in-law potential. Fenced backyard. Hardwired generator, irrigation system. Beautiful country setting! Minutes to Orangeville & Highways 9 & 10.

PICTURESQUE MONO

Private drive past pasture to a 3+1-bedroom bungalow w/ finished walkout bsmt & 2-bdrm in-law suite with separate entry overlooking a pond & mixed bush w/ trails on 48 acres. Fantastic location backing to Dufferin County Forest & near Mono Cliffs Inn & Pub.

This 4 bdrm with pool has views of the rolling countryside, a 70’x20’ drive shed with concrete floor + remnants of a barn foundation, trails, privacy, fruit trees. Near Hockley Valley Golf and Ski, Bruce Trail. 5 mins to Orangeville. Close to Highways 9 & 10. 90 mins to TO.

CALEDON LAND – 50 ACRES

Exceptional setting on a quiet road near Caledon East, awaiting your dream build. Older barn in good condition, with hydro and storage space or workshop pot. Westerly views over Escarpment, rolling hills, seasonal pond, manicured trails thru/o. Drilled well.

30 CEDAR DRIVE, CALEDON VILLAGE

This metropolitan infused home incorporates the cache of the city connecting admirably with the countryside on one of Caledon's most prestigious estate-style developments just 45 minutes from Toronto. 5 private acres and pond. Impeccably appointed with 4 main floor bedrooms ensuite, Chef's kitchen with Cambria quartz counters, Wolf appliances. Open-concept living with large windows, manicured low maintenance property, home office with private entrance, 2 EV chargers.

$3,499,777 Call Jim Wallace, Broker of Record

5 CEDAR DRIVE, CALEDON VILLAGE

Raised bungalow sits on 3+ acres, gourmet kitchen and walkouts to the back yard from the upper and lower levels. Finished lower level and wrap-around porch. $1,950,000 Call Jim Wallace, Broker of Record

16735 MISSISSAUGA ROAD, BELFOUNTAIN

Welcome to this stunning 10-ac property. Hike through your own trails, fill the paddocks & barn w/ hobby farm animals. 3 bdrm, w/o bsmt, pond pool, stunning views, set back from the road.

$1,999,000 Call Jim Wallace, Broker of Record

800 BIG ISLAND, HUNTSVILLE

Lake Vernon westerly views w/ everlasting sunsets. Custom-built in 2019, this 6-bdrm, 5-bath

“smart home” family cottage sits on 14+ acres w/ 658’ of natural Muskoka rock & pine-lined shoreline. O/c living & entertaining area w/ a chef’s kitchen, wood-burning stone fp, Muskoka rm w/ retractable bi-fold glass doors, & two covered waterside decks w/ automated retractable screens. Enjoy lake views from every bdrm. Full backup generator & mainland docking less than 5 mins away. This hidden gem is in a world of its own, w/ nothing left undone. $5,995,000 Call Rebecca Wallace

$1,799,000

SCENIC 4-ACRE BUILDING LOT Build your dream home nestled on this scenic Sugar Maple and mixed forested lot. Hydro is available at the road. Natural surroundings with a small portion under GRCA, allowing flexibility for building & design. Paved road, ideally located near town on a paved road. MLS $899,999

FIND FREEDOM ON PRIVATE 10 ACRES

This spacious 2700+ sq ft 4-bdrm, 3-bath home nestled on a private and peaceful 10 acres offers space to grow and designed for families who value quality updates sustainability with a connection to the land. This farmstead offering organic gardens, apple orchard and fruit trees and open space for hobby farming. Geothermal, updated windows, and R50 insulation combined with fibre internet, supports an energy efficiency and work from home lifestyle. Enjoy summer with a heated inground pool and outdoor play areas. Paved road and minutes to GO and town services. MLS $1,849,000

Sales Representative 866.772.5368 cell: 705.321.7295 kmccague@royallepage.ca www.kellymccague.com

BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED BUNGALOW

Featuring a walkout basement o/l a private ravine in the golf course community of Green Briar. Many updates including window replacement, new sliding patio doors (2023), deck, 2 gas fireplaces and more! $679,500

TWO ROAD FRONTAGES

99.73-acre property (m/l)

Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated 7 Victoria St W, Box 759, Alliston

SOLID BRICK BUNGALOW

Beautifully maintained by one owner featuring a generous sized aluminum-sided addition, 70'x126' fenced yard, underground sprinkler system, workshop, 5-car parking, separate basement entrance and much more! In family friendly Alliston. $849,900

DUNTROON GETAWAY

Entertaining haven with a saltwater infinity pool, screened 3-season porch, panoramic views throughout. Just minutes from Blue Mountain and Collingwood, heated 3-car garage, high-speed internet, and private nature trails. $1,749,000

VIEWS ON 3RD

Artist inspired 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home set on 9.5 acres with southern views. 2-car garage with workshop and full height loft all within minutes to Creemore. $1,325,000

SPECTACULAR CALEDON VIEWS

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Caledon landscape and Toronto skyline: this estate is the epitome of luxury living and grand entertaining. Featuring 9 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms, this magnificent home has been meticulously designed to offer the perfect balance of family comfort and sophisticated entertaining spaces. Privacy on 87 acres in a rarely available location; an opportunity not to be missed.

RESTORED VICTORIAN FARMHOUSE

This grand Victorian home is beautifully restored, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern comfort. 57 private acres; a country retreat with high ceilings, original stonework, hardwood and tile flooring, and countless preserved architectural details including limestone windowsills, gingerbread trim, and a dramatic spiral wood staircase. Beautifully restored bank barn for many uses and sweet stone workshop. A timeless treasure.

LILAC TREE FARM

LILACTREE FARM

99-acre south Mulmur farm on the

9-acre south Mulmur farm on the Escarpment edge overlooking the Boyne Valley. 7 acres of deciduous woodland, approximately 90 acres of rolling pasture, and an extraordinary garden of 70 tree species and rare plants surrounding a Victorian brick farmhouse. $1,999,000

PINE CREST

CARNEDDI FARM

Quietly grand brick farmhouse on 79 rolling Mulmur acres with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 12+ rooms for gathering, hosting and settling in. Barn, workshop, fireplace, circular drive and the kind of breathing room that’s getting harder to find. 75 minutes from Toronto. $2,250,000

THE GENERAL STORE

ERIN CUSTOM HOME

Custom-built country estate with 9000+ sq ft on 41 private acres just one hour north of Oakville. Private entry, soaring ceilings, white oak floors, and statement fireplace. Chef’s kitchen with premium appliances and walk-in pantry. Primary suite with spa ensuite, finished lower level, separate guest suite, and 2500 sq ft heated garage. Exceptional privacy and space without compromise.

ROLLING HILLS FARM

sleeps 10 comfortably. $1,699,000

Hidden modern farmhouse on private 5 acres in Mulmur with soaring cathedral ceilings, saltwater pool, and long golden western sunsets. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, reclaimed hemlock fireplace, spa ensuite with heated floors and a fully finished lower level that sleeps 10 comfortably. $1,749,000

Former Honeywood General Store – a storied brick landmark in Mulmur's oldest settlement. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, original strip hardwood, and perennial gardens. Pellet stove, high-speed internet, 5 parking spots – great layout for retail opportunity or in-law suite. $849,000

Near Terra Cotta and Glen Williams, this iconic 49-acre country estate is a rare multi-generational retreat blending history, architecture, and natural beauty. An architecturally designed bungalow overlooks spring-fed ponds and features soaring ceilings, expansive entertaining areas, and walkouts to a stunning stone patio with outdoor fireplace. A century stone home, 4 historic cabins, renovated bank barn, heated workshop, garage with loft, saltwater pool, forest trails, and lush landscaping complete this remarkable property.

A CALENDAR OF SUMMER HAPPENINGS

COMPILED BY JANET KERR • ILLUSTRATIONS BY JIM STEWART

ARTS & LETTERS

NOW — JUN 28 : WANDERLUST

An explosion of genius and colour from 33+ artists in 60+ works. WedSun 10am-5pm. Free. Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St, Alton. 519943-1149; headwatersarts.org

NOW — JUN 30 : STREAMS ART

GALLERY TAKEOVER Ebbs & Flow showcases the work of youth and emerging artists in Dufferin County. Sale proceeds to both Streams and participating artists. Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm. Free. Grace Tipling Hall, 203 Main St E, Shelburne. Streams Community Hub, 289-203-8202; streamshub.org

NOW — SEP 26 : HOME & HERITAGE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION

Explore meanings of home through the eyes of 30 Canadian photographers. Tues-Sat 10am-4pm. Free. Airport Rd & Hwy 89, Mulmur. 1-877-9417787; dufferinmuseum.com

NOW — OCT 31 : ALTON MILL DAM

BANNERS Risa Horowitz’s largescale outdoor installation made with a handmade camera at Alton Mill Arts Centre. In partnership with CONTACT Photography and Alton Mill. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

NOW — ONGOING : TOKENS OF LOVE

Each artwork is based on real flowers gifted to the artist by loved ones, Tues-Sat 11am-5pm. Free. Women’s Art Association of Canada, 23 Prince Arthur Ave, Toronto. Piera Pugliese, 416-897-3010; pierapugliese.com

JUN 16 : AFTER 5 ARTS SALON — ALISON DOUGLAS Sip, mingle and learn from Alison Douglas, art conservator at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Fee, includes beverage, register. 5pm. Hockley Historic Community Hall & Church, 994174 Mono-Adjala Tnln, Mono. dufferinartscouncil.com

JUN 16 & 23 : KNITTING & PUZZLES

SOCIAL Bring your crafts (knitting, crocheting, sewing) or assemble the community puzzle. Bring your own beverage and snacks. 10-11am. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519-941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 18 & 25 : NOTTAWASAGA WEAVERS & SPINNERS WEEKLY GATHERING Guild members meet to spin, weave, mentor and socialize over lunch. 10am-1pm. Gibson Centre, 63 Tupper St. W, Alliston. Nottawasaga Handweavers and Spinners Guild, 705-435-6991; nottguild.ca

JUN 19 : GLASS JEWELRY CREATIONS Make two pairs of earrings and one pendant using System 96 glass. All skill levels. 11:30am-2:30pm. Hillsburgh Library, 9 Station St, Hillsburgh. Over Here Community Arts Adventure, 519-829-9398; overhere.ca

JUN 20 : ERIN ARTS FESTIVAL Artists and artisans showcase their talents. En plein air live painting demo, juried with cash prizes. Photography exhibition, kids’ area and quilt display. Celebrate the new Wellington County (Erin) Library. 10am-4pm. Free. Village of Erin, Erin Arts Festival Inc, 416-926-1555; erinartsfestival.ca

JUL 1 — AUG 3 : WONDER IN THE WOODS Lucy and Lawrence Kristan, (wood turners) and Marnie Cooke (painter) present art that interprets nature. Jul 5: reception, 1-4pm. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St, Alton. 519 943-1149, headwatersarts.org

JUL 18 : FIBRE IN THE PARK Spinning and weaving demos. If rain, we move into the museum. 1-3pm. Nottawasaga Handweavers and Spinners Guild, Riverdale Park, beside the Museum on the Boyne, 250 Fletcher Cres, Alliston. 705-435-6991; nottguild.ca

AUG 5 — SEP 13 : THE ART OF ABUNDANCE Works by 30+ Headwaters Arts members examining nature and the poetic word. Aug 8: reception, 1-3pm. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. Free. Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St, Alton. 519-943-1149; headwatersarts.org

AUG 23 : AUTHORS IN THE HILLS OF MULMUR Terry Fallis, Linwood Barclay, Heather Marshall, moderated by Bernadette Hardaker. Fee, includes after party. Tickets at BookLore, Shelburne Library or Mulmur Township Office (cash only). 1-5pm. Foley Barn, 10 Sdrd & 1st Ln, Mulmur. Township of Mulmur, Shelburne Library, BookLore, Authors in the Hills of Mulmur, 519-942-3830; booklore.ca

AUG 29 : ART IN THE PARK Outdoor art show featuring skilled artists and artisans of Dufferin County. In conjunction with the Orangeville Farmers' Market. 8am1pm. Alexandra Park, 11 Second St, Orangeville. dufferinarts.com

SEP 16 — OCT 4 : FALL FESTIVAL JURIED ART SHOW & SALE Showcase of 75 original works by 65+ Ontario artists in a variety of mediums. Sep 16: Opening Night Soirée (fee, ticketed). Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St, Alton. 519943-1149; headwatersarts.com

CHILDREN’S CAMPS SOUNDS LIKE SUMMER

FANTASY FUN CAMP

July 13th – 17th

Calling all adventurers! This summer camp is perfect for those who love myth, fantasy, and medieval lore.

NATURE EXPLORERS CAMP

August 4th – 7th

Discover our wonderful natural world! Nature-themed adventure, with topics like animals, insects, groundwater, and more.

CSI MYSTERY CAMP

August 17th – 21st

Are you ready to take on a mystery at the museum? Campers will learn what it takes to solve a case from start to finish.

REGULAR HOURS

TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 10AM – 4PM

DIVKA — LIVE IN CONCERT

July 3rd at 5:30pm

Join us for an evening of music with DIVKA — fierce Eastern European folk, centering songs historically carried by women and preserved through the centuries.

YOU ARE HERE

On Now

This new exhibition explores the history of Dufferin County through Indigenous artifacts, early settler stories — and an exciting look at a 10,000 year old mastodon bone!

HOME & HERITAGE

May 30th – September 26th

Featuring 30 photographers from across Ontario, the Home & Heritage exhibition explores food, tradition, community, family and friends, and the spaces we inhabit.

Photo: “Where I’m Needed” by Esther Kelly

COMMUNITY

FARMERS’ MARKETS

ORANGEVILLE : Saturdays, 8am-1pm, to Oct 17. Downtown Orangeville. orangevillefarmersmarket.ca

CREEMORE : Saturdays, 9am-1pm, to Oct 31. Creemore Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St E. creemorefarmersmarket.ca

: Thursdays, 3-6:30pm, to Sep 24. Erin Fairgrounds, 184 Main St. erinfarmersmarket.ca

GRAND VALLEY: Sep 18. 3-8pm. Grand Valley Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, 60 Main St N. facebook.com

NOW — JUN 26 : SENIORS HEALTH & WELLNESS — AGES 55+ Exercise, education, therapeutic recreation and crafts. Free. Brampton: Mon 9:30-11:30am. Snelgrove Place, 12065 Hurontario St N. Caledon: Mon 1-3pm. Mayfield Senior Living, 12600 Kennedy Rd. Caledon East: Tues 9:30-11:30am. Caledon East Apartments, 20 Walker Rd. Alton: Tues 1-3pm. Pinnacle View Apartments, 9 McClellan Rd. Bolton: Wed 1-3pm. Stationview Apartments, 25 Stationview Pl. Thur: 10amnoon. Lunch: Fee. The Exchange, 55 Healey Rd, Unit 10. Fri: 9:30-11:30am. Riverview Terrace Apartments, 121 Glasgow Rd. Fri: 1-3pm. Jane Street Apartments, 60 Jane St. CCS, 905-584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

NOW — ONGOING (MONDAYS) :

SENIORS HELPING SENIORS — BINGO FRANK Mingle with older adults over shared interests. 1-3pm. Free. Caledon East Apartments, 20 Walker Rd, Caledon East. CCS, 905-584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

NOW — ONGOING (TUESDAYS) : BUCKSTOWN CAFÉ Drop in for coffee, cards, table games and monthly speakers. Fully accessible, secular space. 10am-noon. Free. Palgrave United Church, 34 Pine Ave, Palgrave. Palgrave United Community Kitchen, 905-880-0303; palgravekitchen.org

NOW — ONGOING (WEDNESDAYS) :

SENIORS HELPING SENIORS — CARPET BOWLING A great way to stay young and mingle. 10:30am-

ABBREVIATIONS

CCS

Caledon Community Services

CMOW

Caledon Meals on Wheels

DCAFS

Dufferin Child and Family Services

EWCS

East Wellington Community Services

PAMA

Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives

SBEC

Small Business Enterprise Centre

noon. Free. Riverview Apartments, 121 Glasgow Rd, Bolton. CCS, 905584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

NOW — ONGOING (WEDNESDAYS) : SENIORS HELPING SENIORS — COMPUTING4SENIORS Learn computer skills in a relaxed environment. 1-3pm. Free. Caledon Library, 150 Queen St S, Bolton. CCS, 905-584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

NOW — ONGOING (FRIDAYS) : SENIORS HELPING SENIORS — UNO PACK, CARDS & MORE Mingle with older adults over shared interests. 1-3pm. Free. Caledon East Apartments, 20 Walker Rd, Caledon East. CCS, 905-584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

NOW — ONGOING : FREE RESIDENT 65+ MEMBERSHIPS Caledon residents 65 years and older can sign up for free memberships to support heathy aging and community well-being. caledon.ca

JUN 16 : CHRIST CHURCH BOLTON COMMUNITY SUPPER A warm meal and good company. Doors open 5pm, dinner 5:30-7pm. Everyone welcome. 5-7pm. 22 Nancy St, Bolton. 905857-0433; christchurchbolton.ca

JUN 16, 23, AUG 4 — SEP 8 (TUESDAYS) : ARTHRITIS FOUNDATIONS

EXERCISE CLASS Video-led class that helps strengthen, keep us mobile and offer relief. Bring water bottle. Equipment provided (hand weights and chair). 11-11:30am. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 16, JUL 21 & AUG 18 : LIVING INTO HOPE — GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Peer-led group for anyone journeying with grief. Bring refreshments if you wish. 2-4pm. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519-941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 17, 24, AUG 5 — SEP 2 (WEDNESDAYS) : STRENGTH & STRETCH EXERCISE CLASS

Video-led class helps build strength, balance, endurance and flexibility. Equipment provided (hand weights and yoga mat). Bring water bottle. 11am-1pm. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519-941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 17, JUL 17 & SEP 16 : CREEMORE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

MONTHLY MEETINGS Jun 17: The Therapeutic Garden. Jul 17: Summer Flower and Vegetable Show. Sep 16: Wonderland — The Garden in Winter. 7pm. Creemore Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St E, Creemore. 705-466-3170; creemorehort.com

JUN 18 : SUCCESSION PLANNING FOR SMALL BUSINESS Transition your business on your terms with Mark Jamieson. 9-10:30am. Free. Orangeville SBEC, 200 Lakeview Crt, Orangeville. 519-941-0440; orangevillebusiness.ca

JUN 18 : CALEDON SENIORS’ CENTRE STRAWBERRY SOCIAL Enjoy homemade cake with fresh strawberries and cream, and entertainment. Free, call to register. 2-4pm. 7 Rotarian Way, Bolton. Town of Caledon. 905-951-6114; caledonseniors.ca

Join the fun at Arts by the Pond

A Celebration of Arts and the Environment

This event, presented in collaboration with Tree Trust Erin, merges arts and environment to create a vibrant cultural celebration.

Experience a dynamic fusion of art, music, dance, and rich flavours set against the beautiful backdrop of nature.

Featuring the Tree of the Year Celebration and the unveiling of the Station Stop Caboose Hop public art installation.

A portion of the proceeds directly supports local arts, culture, and community programming. Find out more at overhere.ca

www.overhere.ca

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 104

JUN 18 : MAYFIELD UNITED CHICKEN

BBQ Join us for 1/2 chicken and all the fixings. Eat in or take out. Fee, from Joe Gray 647-887-9419 or Linda Livingston 416-409-0236. No tickets at the door. 4:30-7pm. Brampton Fairgrounds, 12942 Heart Lake Rd, Caledon. 905843-1035; mayfieldunitedchurch.org

JUN 18 : AN EVENING UNDER THE STARS Outdoor gala at a private property in Mono. Gourmet BBQ buffet by Gourmandissimo, live entertainment and auction. Fees and tax receipt. 5:30-9:30pm. 519-9380780; dufferincommunityfoundation.ca

JUN 19 : FIT FOR LIFE WELLNESS

EXPO Health and lifestyle solutions for today’s mature adults. Lunch, local exhibitors, speakers, demos, prizes and more! 9:30am-12:30pm. Free. Golden Transitions. Caledon Seniors’ Centre, 7 Rotarian Way, Bolton. 905-951-6114; caledonseniors.ca

JUN 19, 26, AUG 7 — SEP 4 (FRIDAYS) : VON SMART EXERCISE CLASS

Video-led workout helps build strength, balance, endurance and mobility. Bring water bottle. Equipment provided (hand weights, ball and chair). 11amnoon. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519-941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 20 : CALEDON DAY Kids’ activities, vendors, Taylor Swift tribute band, Brett Kissel and fireworks. 2-10pm. Free. Caledon East Community Complex, Caledon East. Town of Caledon, 905-584-2272 x4376; caledon.ca

JUN 20, JUL 25, AUG 29, SEP 26 & OCT 24 : BLACKHORSE VILLAGE PLAYERS VENDOR MARKETS

Jun 20: Welcome Summer. Jul 25: Christmas in July. Aug 29: Hot! Hot! Hot! Sep 26: Autumn Solstice. Oct 24: Happy Halloween. 11am4pm. 17272 Mt Wolfe Rd & Hwy 9, Caledon. blackhorsetheatre.ca

JUN 20 & JUL 18 : A DAY ON THE FARM AT SHELDON CREEK DAIRY

Meet the cows, barn demos, live music, career showcases, farmers’ market, food trucks and more! Rain or shine. No outside food or drinks. 10am-3pm. Free, register online. 4316 RR#2 5th Con, Loretto. 705-4340404; sheldoncreekdairy.ca

JUN 19 : CREEMORE BIA SUMMER

SOLSTICE An evening of food and drink, live music, line dancing and community. 5-10pm. Creemore Village Green, 181 Mill St, Creemore. Creemore BIA, creemorevillagegreen.ca

JUN 20: CELEBRATE YOUR AWESOME! Inclusive, family-friendly events that honour diversity, pride and individuality. 11am-6pm. Alexandra Park, Orangeville. celebrateyourawesome.ca

JUN 19 — 21 : CALEDON FAIR Truck/ tractor pull, beer garden, kids’ activities, classic British car show, demo derby, agility dog show, live entertainment, bed races and more! Fri 5:30-10pm. Sat 9am-9pm. Sun 9am-5pm. Caledon Fairgrounds, 18297 Hurontario St, Caledon Village. Caledon Agricultural Society, 519-925-3461; caledonfair.ca

JUN 21 : STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL & MEET THE MAKERS Join us for all things strawberry, pick-yourown, meet local artists. 10am-4pm. 16930 Airport Rd, Caledon East. 905-584-9461; rockgardenfarms.ca

JUN 23 : CANADA’S CIRCUS SPECTACULAR An international collaboration showcasing top global circus artists in a unique production for Canada. 4:30 & 7pm. Fee. Alder Street Recreation Centre, Orangeville. circusspectacular.com

JUN 25 : KUSINA & KARAOKE A joyful, Filipino-themed luncheon for seniors to connect and have fun. Noon-2pm. Free, register with Heather 905-8577651. Albion Bolton Community Centre, Bolton. CMOW, 905-857-7651; cmow.org

JUN 25 : TRINITY PRIMROSE

STRAWBERRY SUPPER A wonderful annual fundraiser that celebrates the beginning of the summer

season. 4:30-7pm. Trinity Primrose United Church, 200 Owen Sound St, Shelburne. shelburneprimrose.com

JUN 25, JUL 30 & AUG 27 : CANCER

SUPPORT GROUP Peer-led support group for those journeying with cancer. 1-2pm or 5:30-6:30pm. Free. 346255 15 Sdrd, Mono. 519941-0972; highcountryunited.ca

JUN 26 : STREAMS FREE SUMMER

KICK-OFF BBQ & OPEN HOUSE

Explore Streams, connect with our community and enjoy amazing BBQ by Transcend by Jex, sponsored by Town Tees. Everyone welcome. 4-6pm. Free. 305 Col. Phillips Dr, Shelburne. 289-203-8202; streamshub.org

JUN 26 : BOLTON TRUCK & TRACTOR

PULL The largest one-day pull in the GTA in 16 classes! Live entertainment and prizes. 6-10pm. Albion & Bolton Fairgrounds, 150 Queen St S, Bolton. Albion & Bolton Agricultural Society, 905-880-0369; boltonfair.ca

JUN 28 : RELESSEY MEMORIAL

SERVICE Wayne Townsend, historian, and Naomi Bristow, multigenre musician, are our special guests. Free, donations appreciated, either cash or etransfer to relesseycemetery@gmail. com. 2:30pm. Relessey Church, 874615 Dufferin Cty Rd 8 and 5th Ln, Mono. Relessey Cemetery Board, 519-941-1100

JUL 1 : CALEDON CANADA DAY

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Classic

all-make car show, strawberry pancake breakfast (until sold out), live entertainment, vendors and kids’ activities. 8:30am-4pm. Free. Caledon Village Fairgrounds, 18297 Hurontario St, Caledon Village. Caledon Agricultural Society, 519-925-3461; caledonfair.ca

JUL 1 : DOWNEY’S CANADA DAY

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Strawberry pancake breakfast, live entertainment, farm animals, K 9 performances and outdoor fun. Some proceeds to CCS. 9am-4pm. Fee. Downey’s Farm Market, 13682 Heart Lake Rd, Caledon. 905-838-2990; downeysfarm.com

JUL 1 : GRAND VALLEY BIA CANADA DAY CAR SHOW Classic cars, vintage favourites and unique rides. To display a car, fee, cash only, register at 11am. Cash prizes. 11am-1pm. Main St, Grand Valley. 519-928-5652; townofgrandvalley.ca

JUL 1 : ERIN CANADA DAY SUMMERFEST Live entertainment, kids’ activities, food trucks, Bollywood dance lessons, community fun for all ages. Noon-5pm. Erin Fairgrounds, 184 Main St, Erin. Erin Agricultural Society, Town of Erin, Rotary Club of Erin, erinrotary.com

JUL 1 : SHELBURNE CANADA DAY

Family fun, Minion meet and greet, magic show and great fireworks at dusk! Free, donations to the local food bank encouraged. 6pm. Greenwood Park, 781 Greenwood Cres, Shelburne. Town of Shelburne, 519-925-2600 x239; shelburne.ca

JUL 10 & AUG 28 : FRIDAYS IN THE PARK Concerts, kids’ activities, vendors and more. Jul 10: Community Garage Sale. 6-9pm. Free. Jack Downing Park, 140 Main St E, Shelburne. Shelburne BIA, shelburnebia.ca

JUL 15 & AUG 12 : CALEDON

SENIORS’ CENTRE SPECIAL LUNCH

Jul 15: Cold meat plate. Aug 12: Peameal bacon on a bun. Pick-up 11:45am. Dine-in noon. Fees. Local delivery available, call to register two days prior. 11:45am-1pm. 7 Rotarian Way, Bolton. 905-951-6114; caledonseniors.ca

JUL 17 — 19 : ORANGEVILLE ROTARY

RIBFEST! BBQ ribs, beer tent, car show, Kidsfest and live enter tainment. Proceeds to reconstruction of Rotary Park playground and community projects. Shoe drive with BioPed Orangeville for Soles4Soles. Drop gently used shoes at entrance. Fri 4-10pm. Sat 11am-10pm. Sun 11am-7pm. Free, cash/card donations (tap) accepted. Alder Street Recreation Centre, Orangeville. The Rotary Club of Orangeville, orangevilleribfest.com

JUL 18 : RCMP MUSICAL RIDE

Up to 32 Mounties and horses performing precision, choreographed equestrian drills. 1-4pm. Brampton Fairgrounds, 12942 Heart Lake Rd, Caledon. Region of Peel Agricultural Society, bramptonfair.com

JUL 24 & AUG 28 : CALEDON

SENIORS’ CENTRE MONTHLY DINNER Jul 24: Burgers or peameal bacon on a bun. Aug 28: Chicken kebab. Pick-up 5:15pm. Dine-in 5:30pm. Everyone welcome! Fee. Local delivery available, call to register two days prior by 3:30pm. 5:15-7pm. 7 Rotarian Way, Bolton. 905-951-6114; caledonseniors.ca

WELCOME

MANSFIELD OUTDOOR CENTRE FOREST SCHOOL NATURE ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Where learning comes alive in the heart of nature. Nestled on 300 acres of forest, meadow, and river valley, our program offers students the opportunity to explore, play, and learn in the great outdoors guided by Ontario Certified Teachers who connect classroom curriculum to real-world discovery

CREEMORE

ARTS FEST

40+ Artists-on-Location

Odeimin Runners at the Station Julian Taylor at the Avening Hall

Sultans of String in the Park The Chairs: Play by Eugène Ionesco

JUL 25 : SMOKED PORK CHOP

DINNER In conjunction with Pickin’ in the Park. Fee, cash only, register by Jul 24 at noon at 519-925-2006 or email. 4-7pm. Shelburne Agricultural Community Centre, 377 William St, Shelburne. Rotary Club of Shelburne, 519-278-4578; shelburnerotaryclub.com

JUL 30 — AUG 2 : CANADIAN GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG CHAMPIONSHIPS & SIEGER SHOW

This year Saugeen Schutzhund Club of Ontario and Oneida Working Dog Club are proud to be co-hosting the highest-level event held annually by the German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of Canada (GSSCC). Please leave pets at home. Free. Orangeville Fairgrounds, 2470905 5 Sdrd, Mono. 905-702-1660; gssccnational2026.ca

AUG 7 — 9 : FERGUS SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

Heavy events and pipe band competitions, Highland dancers, 50+ clans, Heritage Village, whisky tasting, McKiddie’s activities, Celtic musicians and international vendors! Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex, Fergus. 519787-0099; fergusscottishfestival.com

AUG 8 : MONARCH & POLLINATOR FESTIVAL Visit our monarch hatchery and pollinator gardens, farm-fresh food available. 10am-2pm. Free. 16555 Humber Station Rd, Caledon. albionhillscommunityfarm.org

AUG 25 : HFFA FARM-TO-SCHOOL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN FOOD & AGRICULTURE Evening of local light bites and beverages supporting food and farming education. Interactive panel of women farmers, hop tour. 5-8:30pm. Fee. GoodLot Farm, 18825 Shaws Creek Rd, Caledon. Headwaters Food and Farming Alliance, headwatersfoodandfarming.square.site

FALL FAIRS 2026

Please see websites for more details.

SEP 4 — 6: ORANGEVILLE FALL

FAIR Orangeville Agricultural Centre, 247090 5 Sdrd, Mono. Orangeville Agricultural Society, 519-942-9597; oaseventcentre.ca

SEP 17 — 20: BRAMPTON FALL FAIR Brampton Fairgrounds, 12942

Heart Lake Rd, Caledon. 905843-0210; bramptonfair.com

SEP 18 — 20: SHELBURNE FALL FAIR

Shelburne & District Fairgrounds, 200 Fiddlepark Lane, Shelburne. facebook.com/shelburnefallfair

SEP 25 — 27: BOLTON FALL FAIR Albion & Bolton Fairgrounds, 150 Queen St S, Bolton. boltonfair.ca

SEP 25 — 27 : GRAND VALLEY FALL FAIR Grand Valley Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, 60 Main St N, Grand Valley. 226-979-3724; grandvalleyfallfair.ca

OCT 9 — 12: ERIN FALL FAIR Erin Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, 190 Main St, Erin. erinfair.com

KIDS

NOW — JUN 28 (SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS): DIY STUDIO TIME — AGES 5+ Be inspired by Claude Tousignant’s Accélérateur and create your own illusion artwork. All children with an adult. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

NOW — ONGOING : DCAFS PROGRAMS & WORKSHOPS

Community resources for child and youth mental health, child welfare, developmental support services and behaviour solutions. 655 Riddell Rd, Orangeville. 519-941-1530; dcafs.on.ca

JUL 1 — SEP 4 : ORANGEVILLE NEIGHBOURHOOD BLOCK BOX A travelling trailer bringing hands-on games and activities to local parks. Tues-Sun. See website for dates and times. Town of Orangeville, 519-941-0610; orangeville.ca

AUG 1 — 30 (SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS) : DIY STUDIO TIME — AGES 5+ Learn about Risa Horowitz, create your own artwork inspired by Alton Mill Dam hanging

on PAMA’s outdoor banners. All children with an adult. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

AUG 22 : SUMMER FUN DAY

Enjoy a tour, interactive storytime, crafts, Hands-on Exotics (lion impurr-sonator) and live small animals, birds and reptiles. Register for the animal show. 10:30am-4pm. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

MUSIC

JUN — SEP: LIVE MUSIC AT ROSE THEATRE Please check the website for the new season starting in September. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln, Brampton. 905-874-2800; tickets.brampton.ca

JUL 3 : DIVKA LIVE IN CONCERT Bandurist Alina Kuzma (esoteric Ukrainian harp) and violist Zoë Ëoz perform powerful Eastern European folk songs and storytelling. 5:30pm. Fee. Airport Rd & Hwy 89, Mulmur. 1-877-941-7787; dufferinmuseum.com

JUL 5 & 19, AUG 9 & 23, SEP 13 : FIDDLE PARK CONCERT SERIES

Celebrate incredible local emerging artists and well-established acts. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. 6pm. Shelburne Fiddle Park, Dufferin Cty Rd 11, Shelburne. Town of Shelburne, 519-925-2600 x239; shelburne.ca

JUL 5 — AUG 30 : SUNDAYS IN THE PARK Different genres of live, family-friendly music performed by talented Canadian musicians. Jul 19: Mudmen. 1-2:30pm. Free. Creemore Village Green, 181 Mill St, Creemore. creemorevillagegreen.ca

JUL 10 — 12 : THE NASHVILLE TAKEOVER Experience 15+ top surprise Nashville and Canadian songwriters for intimate shows in Orangeville. Acoustic storytelling, bar hops and late-night after-parties. thenashvilletakeover.ca

JUL 23 — 26 : PICKIN’ IN THE PARK Two barns with music, open mics, seminars, food trucks, garage sale, gospel concert/ jam and guest artists. Camping available. Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex, Shelburne. pickininthepark.ca

OUTDOOR

NOW — JUN 28 (SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS) : TEEN RANCH TRAIL

RIDES — AGES 10+ Gentle terrain with experienced staff, well-trained horses. Weight limit: 250 lb (≈ 113 kg). Days/times vary. Sunday slots available. Saturdays if availability. Fee, register and prepay. 20682 Hurontario St, Caledon. 519-941-4501; teenranch.com

NOW — DEC 31 : MULMUR 175 ENDTO-END CHALLENGE — ALL AGES

This 41.1 km challenge can be completed in sections or end to end. All 13 checkpoints completed on foot. Collect markers, unscramble message, email to info@mulmur.ca for commemorative badge. Dufferin Hi-Land Bruce Trail Club, dufferinbrucetrailclub.org

JUN 18 : HIDDEN GEMS GARDEN TOUR: GRAND VIEWS OF GRAND VALLEY Please join us. Fee, at the Orangeville, Hillsburgh, Grand Valley and Erin horticultural society meetings. 5-9pm. Grand Valley, Orangeville and District Horticultural Society, orangevillehort.com

JUN 20 : VÉLOCITY RIDE FOR SENIORS 2026 — ALL AGES Proceeds to new accessible bus. All skill levels. 7:30am-12:30pm. Register. Caledon East Park, 6101 Old Church Rd, Caledon East. CCS, 905-584-2300 x230; ccs4u.org

JUN 20 : BIRDING WORKSHOP: PEAK BREEDING SEASON Nesting behaviours, territorial songs and signs. All experience levels. Walk 3 km of flat trails. Dress for weather and/or bugs. Bring binoculars. Fee, includes day pass. 7:30-9:30am. 937365 Airport Rd, Mulmur. 705-4354479; mansfieldoutdoorcentre.ca

of

and entranceways

519-941-7208 · MONO PLAZA Unit A8 633419 Hwy 10 Mono 3km north of Orangeville

RBC Dominion Securities, S. Roud

JUN 21 : CELEBRATING A DECADE

IN BLOOM Garden tours, family scavenger hunts, mini gardening workshops, plant selection and soil management. Rain date: Jun 28. 1-4pm. Free. 246366 Hockley Rd, Mono. Mono Pollinator Garden Volunteers/ Committee, townofmono.com

JUN 22 : HEADWATERS GOLF CLASSIC On-course activities, live/ silent auctions, food stations, cocktail reception. Proceeds to Emergency Department expansion. TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, 18821 Main St, Caledon. Headwaters Health Care Foundation, 519-941-2702 x2303; hhcfoundation.com

JUN 23 : CALEDON SENIORS’ CENTRE GOLF TOURNAMENTS

Enjoy our 9- and 18-hole tournaments. Proceeds to programs and services. See website. Fees. 8:30am-6pm. Glen Eagle Golf Club, 15731 RR 50, Caledon. 905-951-6114; caledonseniors.ca

JUN 26 : GLOW & BEHOLD: A NIGHT OF MOTH DISCOVERY —

ALL AGES Guided, hands-on, 2 km walk on level terrain. All children with an adult. Closed-toed shoes, small flashlight/headlamp, sunglasses (yes), dress for weather/environment. Apply repellent lightly before arriving, away from observation areas. Rain date Jul 3. 8-11pm. Fees. 937365 Airport Rd, Mulmur. 705-435-4479; mansfieldoutdoorcentre.ca

JUL 23 : EW-CS CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT All skill levels. Includes 18 holes, power cart, dinner and prizes. Proceeds to health care, transportation and social service needs. 11am-7pm. Guelph Lakes Golf and Country Club, 7879 Wellington Rd, Guelph. EWCS, 519-833-9696; ew-cs.com

AUG 22 : MUD HERO — AGES

12+ Obstacle event, 6 km course, no training needed, medal, all-day pass, entertainment, food trucks and vendors. Fees, cash only. 9am3pm. Albion Hills Conservation Park, Caledon. mudhero.com

SEP 2 : LEGACY GOLF CLASSIC Join us for this 18-hole charity golf tournament. Major grant recipient: Caledon Agricultural Society capital campaign. 8:30am-5pm.

Visit us online

For up-to-date listings between issues, and for more details, go to inthehills.ca/events.

To submit your community, arts or nonprofit event:

Select “What’s On” from the menu bar at inthehills.ca.

That will take you to the listings page. Select “Add Your Community Event” and complete the easy form.

Submit by Friday, July 31, 2026 for the autumn (September) issue.

We reserve the right to edit submissions for print and web. inthehills.ca

TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, 18821 Main St, Caledon. Allan and Anne Thompson Community Fund, 905703-0744; bramptoncaledoncf.ca

THEATRE & FILM

JUN 18 — 21 : MR. TELEVISION

BY JOHN PALLA A comedy about humble Hogan Cable’s community television station in a moonshiner’s farmhouse kitchen in 1977. ThurSat 8:15pm. Sun 2:15pm. 17272 Mt Wolfe Rd & Hwy 9, Caledon. 905880-5002; blackhorsetheatre.ca

AUG 14 — 16 : DUFFERIN FILM FESTIVAL Emerging and award-winning Canadian filmmakers, screenings, Q&As, interviews, juried awards celebrating excellence in film. Fee. Town Hall Opera House, 87 Broadway, Orangeville. dufferinfilmfest.com

Independent Care Designed Around You

Flexible

Dental

Rural Commons

111 Environmental Pest Control PET SUPPLIES & SERVICES FF11 Animals in Motion

Rehabilitation Services FF11 Erin Trailside Veterinary Services

Global Pet Foods

Laurie’s Canine Consulting

Laurie’s Paws on the Go

Creative Ponds

Pond Perfections

Silver Creek Ponds POOLS & SAUNAS 41 D&D Pools & Spas 93 Mill Lane Saunas

Excavating

Lockyer Law Professional Corporation

Van Harten Land Surveyors –Engineers

Bosley Real Estate Velvet Alcorn & Lindsay Alcorn

Century 21 Millennium Inc. Ann Shanahan Team

Century 21 Millennium Inc. Mary Klein, Kaitlan Klein

Chestnut Park Real Estate

Sue Collis, Sarah MacLean

Coldwell Banker, Ronan Realty

Britton Ronan, Marc Ronan

Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage

Hilary Matthews 95 Moffat Dunlap Real Estate

Moffat Dunlap, John Dunlap, Nik Bonellos, Elizabeth Campbell, Courtney Murgatroyd, Sean Wynn, Mark Campbell, David Warren 93 ReMax Realty Specialists Inc.

Sigrid Doherty

98 ReMax In The Hills

Chris Richie, David Waters, Dale Poremba, Karen Caulfield, Jennifer Unger, Carmela GaglieseScoles, Sean Anderson

94 Royal LePage Credit Valley

Rita Lange

100 Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty

Denise Dilbey

101 Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty

Paul Richardson

97 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Doug Schild, Chris Schild

100 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Kelly McCague

96 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Matt Lindsay

101 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Suzanne Lawrence

104 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Suzanne Lawrence

100 Royal LePage RCR Realty

Victoria Phillips, Janna Imrie

41 Royal Le Page RCR Realty

Wayne Baguley

99 Royal Le Page RCR Realty

Wayne Baguley

99 Sutton-Headwaters Realty

Jim Wallace, Rebecca Wallace, Sarah Aston

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

70 Brampton Christian School

FF15 HFFA Farm to School

107 Mansfield Forest School

SENIORS’ SERVICES

50 AMICA Senior

WHEN POTASH WAS MADE FROM SCRATCH

RECENT THREATS TO THE GLOBAL POTASH TRADE HAVE propelled this humble compound into news headlines, but long before large corporations began mining potash from underground deposits, farmers used wood ash to both nourish crops and make lye, an essential ingredient in soap.

For early settlers, the hardwood forests of Headwaters provided plenty of raw material. When clearing a field for farming, they would chop down the trees and leave them on the ground. During winter, they burned the felled trees, covering the field in a layer of ashes. The next spring, when preparing the field for planting, the ashes were plowed under to supply their crops with fertilizer.

In Bolton, an entrepreneur named Edward Porritt saw a business opportunity in the area’s plentiful supply of wood ash. In about 1868, he built an ashery and began using wood ash to produce lye and potash. Located on the south side of King Street East, roughly across from the end of today’s Humber Lea Road, the ashery’s towering smokestack became something of a local landmark.

For much of the next 20 years, Porritt and his wagon were a familiar sight as he drove around collecting wood ashes, probably in exchange for a bartered item or a small cash payment.

At the ashery, Porritt ran water through the ashes to produce lye, but he also created a more refined product by “cooking” the lye in large iron pots in the ashery’s furnace building. This process transformed the lye into potash (a combination of the words “pot” and “ash”), while the tower dispersed the resulting smoke high above the village.

By 1885, however, Headwaters forests were largely gone and the supply of wood ash had dwindled. The ashery was abandoned, though it remained in place until at least 1912, when the photo was snapped during that year’s devastating April flood. It was later dismantled so that this photo, and a few others, remain the only evidence of the ashery that once stood on the site.

— DYANNE RIVERS