Canada’s Capital Greenbelt is one of the world’s largest publicly owned greenbelts surrounding a national capital and contains more than 5,000 hectares of actively farmed land. As pressures from urban growth, changing agriculture, and environmental stewardship continue to evolve, the National Capital Commission recognized the need for a long-term strategy that would ensure agriculture remains a vibrant and defining feature of this remarkable landscape.

This research examined how the Greenbelt could become a national model for sustainable agriculture by balancing productive farming with conservation, public access, education, recreation, and the unique role the Greenbelt plays within Canada’s Capital Region. The study combined international best practices, literature review, stakeholder engagement, interviews with Greenbelt farmers, and collaboration with National Capital Commission staff to develop a practical framework for the future of agriculture within the Greenbelt.

The project resulted in a comprehensive vision for sustainable agricultural development, built around seven guiding principles and twenty strategic actions. These recommendations focused on strengthening farm viability, encouraging innovation and diversification, protecting natural and cultural heritage, improving public awareness of agriculture, and fostering stronger partnerships between producers, government, and the community.

More broadly, the research demonstrated that working landscapes can successfully serve multiple purposes. Agriculture was positioned not simply as an economic activity, but as an essential contributor to food security, environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, tourism, education, and quality of life. Many of the ideas developed through this project continue to resonate today as governments and communities seek ways to strengthen local food systems while protecting valuable agricultural landscapes.