Full Podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/261019-massey-solar-project-controversy-is Demand for locally raised beef in the Massey area has reportedly increased by approximately 200% over the past five years. That's a tremendous opportunity for Northern Ontario farmers, local businesses, and our regional food supply. In this Love the North conversation, Chloe Bichette, a founding member of the Massey Wildlife Conservation Committee, explains how agriculture is experiencing a resurgence in the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers. Mennonite families began purchasing and restoring farms in the area during the mid-2000s. Today, the next generation is expanding agricultural operations, raising livestock, and creating new opportunities for local food production. Chloe describes a Mennonite-owned abattoir processing locally raised beef, pork, chicken, and turkey. According to her, demand for its beef has grown dramatically, attracting customers from Sudbury and surrounding communities. This growth supports an entire local economy, including farmers, feed suppliers, processors, employees, and families. But there's a concern. A proposed industrial-scale solar project involving leases covering more than 1,000 acres could affect agricultural land currently used to produce hay and silage for livestock. At a time when demand for locally produced food is growing, should productive farmland be converted to industrial energy development? Renewable energy matters, but so does food security. We need to consider where our food will come from tomorrow, not just where our electricity will come from today. Are we protecting Northern Ontario's agricultural future? #LoveTheNorth #MasseyOntario #LocalBeef #SupportLocalFarmers #NorthernOntario #FoodSecurity #ProtectFarmland