Proudly Meaford is a community-wide campaign that highlights the strengths, successes, and local pride that define our municipality. From the farms that nourish us, to the small businesses that power our local economy and the natural spaces that inspire us, Proudly Meaford shares the stories that make us honoured to call Meaford home.
In this series, different themes will showcase the various ways that Meaford grows, creates, builds, and thrives.
This is our collective tale, and we’d love for you to read it.
Chapter 1: Proudly Grown in Meaford
Where Our Growing Story Begins
Meaford’s agricultural history spans nearly two centuries, shaped by dedicated farming families, the Niagara Escarpment, and the moderating waters of Georgian Bay. This unique landscape creates an ideal microclimate for flourishing orchards and thriving farms. Proudly Grown celebrates the people who built Meaford from the ground up and continue to strengthen our community today. Here, farming is more than an industry; it supports local businesses, fuels tourism, and connects residents and visitors to the land that defines who we are.
Explore the full Proudly Grown series through a selection of videos spotlighting the Vail family, the Lambe family, and the combined story that celebrates Meaford’s agricultural heritage.
Our One-of-a-Kind Microclimate
The geography of Meaford creates ideal growing conditions that cannot be found in many other regions. The escarpment shields the land from harsh weather, while Georgian Bay keeps spring and fall temperatures more stable. This protects tender blossoms during early growth and supports the production of high-quality fruit.
This natural advantage has made Meaford a leading apple-growing area in Ontario, with thriving varieties such as Honeycrisp, Ambrosia, and Gala.
Meet the Families Who Built the Land
Agriculture in Meaford is rooted in legacy. Many of our farms began in the 1800s, and the stories of those early growers live on today. These family farms represent the heart of Proudly Grown.
Grandma Lambe’s
The Lambe family story began in the mid 1900s, when apples were sold from a small garage along Highway 26. That simple start grew into one of Meaford’s most visited local businesses, welcoming residents and tourists year-round. Today, Grandma Lambe’s continues to represent community pride, quality local food, and the value of family tradition in agriculture.
The Vail Family
The Vail family have been part of Meaford life since 1825. Their history began at Vail’sPoint, where the combination of fertile soil and the gentle climate formed ideal growing ground. Over generations, their orchards have adapted from traditional plantings to modern high-density systems that increase fruit quality and sustainability. Their story reflects both deep heritage and forward-thinking innovation.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
While its history runs deep, the future of farming in Meaford is bright. Local growers are shifting to high-density orchards that allow for:
- Better sunlight exposure
- More consistent color and sweetness
- Improved efficiency in pruning and picking
- Higher overall yields
Growers are also testing emerging technologies that will shape the next generation of farming, including robotic harvesting tools and advanced crop management systems.
Innovation ensures agriculture remains a strong pillar of Meaford’s future.
More Proudly Meaford Stories Coming Soon
Proudly Grown is only getting started. Stay tuned for the next chapter.