Sustainable food systems are an important part of being a UNESCO biosphere. Since 2008, GBB has led and partnered on food programs with schools, food producers, local governments, First Nations, and not for profits. Hundreds of residents, students, producers, organizations and partners have been empowered by these programs:
- 50+ hands-on, food skill building workshops and events
- 7 Community Gardens (with a total of 75 plots plus a small greenhouse)
- 4 years of Community Kitchens offered twice weekly for seniors/Indigenous elders and for adults with mental disability or mental health needs.
Local Food Guide: Grown by the Bay
GBB has created the Grown by the Bay local food guide. Available through a Google map (below) or in downloadable PDF print, this guide lists regional producers, their availability, as well as a number of other useful local food resources.
Supporting local food keeps production close to those who consume it. Feeding a community this way supports economic, community, environmental, and nutritional well-being.
Did you know?
We are proud to partner with a local, independent craft brewery to promote the UNESCO biosphere. Look for our logo on cans of Trestle Brewing Company’s 30,000 Islands IPA – available at the LCBO!
The Local Food Map
If you grow or harvest food in this area and wish to be added to our list, please email education @ georgianbaybiosphere.com with your information. Thank you for connecting people to locally grown food!
Indigenous Land & Food
The Georgian Bay Biosphere is situated within Anishinaabek territory. Indigenous peoples have an inherent right to hunt, fish, and harvest plants, berries, wild rice and other foods. Maintaining cultural relationships with the plants, animals, air, water and land are inherently connected to natural law and Indigenous food sovereignty.
Local Food Resources for Parry Sound Area
Food Collaborative
The Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative is a group of volunteers and organizations dedicated to a sustainable, local food system with equal access to nutritious, safe food.
Food Charter
A food charter builds on a community’s collective voice and values which support a local food system. The charter offers a guide for shaping policy and projects.
Action Toolkits
Whether you’re an eater, grower, school, policy maker, workplace or institution, you can use these toolkits to make a difference!
Food Access Guide
The Food Access Guide contains local information on community kitchens, meal programs, food banks, community gardens, student nutrition programs and good food boxes.