Depth of field is a series of 40 short documentaries produced and presented by the National Farmers Union (Canada) and March Forth Creative. These films feature Canadian farmers and farmworkers, focusing on their sustainable farming practices on and off the land. Covering topics such as rotational grazing, seed conservation, soil health and social justice, each farmer shares their individual priorities. Together, these unscripted films tell the story of farming practices that can help create the food system we all want.
The National Farmers Union wants to inspire Canadian food consumers to learn more about the work of agriculture. The thoughtful engagement of small farmers across Canada, such as those in Depth of fieldplays a critical role in building a thriving food system that benefits both people and the land.
“In the face of climate change, our farmers are taking action to ensure their production processes are increasingly sustainable. Organizations like (the National Farmers Union) that demonstrate the sector’s leadership on sustainability are helping to build public confidence in Canada’s food system,” the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, told Depth of Field.
We feature three of these films here. Click here to access the full library.
Lucky Bug Farm, Ontario: Minimal tillage improves soil health
Lucky Bug Farm is a half-acre organic vegetable garden located 25 minutes from Kitchener-Waterloo. The farm uses interplanting and minimal tillage to improve soil health, resulting in a productive organic vegetable garden. Although the farm is not certified organic, it emphasizes purchasing organic seeds, using organic potting soil, and avoiding synthetic additives, sprays, and fertilizers.
Toasa Cooperative in Nauwigewauk, New Brunswick: Building a Community
Toasa Cooperative Ltd is a worker-led cooperative gardening company founded in 2021 with the goal of creating a local, sustainable food system and building community.
Back to the Roots, St. Clements, Manitoba: Reconnecting People with Their Food Source
Back to Roots Farm is a family-run, nature-based farm that grows mixed vegetables on 30 acres, raises free-range goats and keeps laying hens for egg production. They believe in reconnecting people with their food source and emphasize the importance of agroecological farming models such as rotational grazing, which creates a balanced ecosystem on the farm.
Don’t miss the opportunity to meet the hardworking farmers, farmworkers, producers and land managers who grow food in Canada. Access the complete library hereIf you are interested in hosting community screenings, Contact the film team here.
