Durham's rural area comprises almost 85 per cent of the region's land base, most of which is for agricultural, open space uses interspersed with rural settlements and employment areas. The townships of Scugog, Uxbridge and Brock (north Durham) make up the largest portion of Durham's rural area and support almost 25,000 jobs.

While each township has unique economic strengths and opportunities, the agricultural sector is dominant across the rural area. Other competitive economic strengths include construction and arts, entertainment and recreation, with opportunities for growth in transportation/warehousing, manufacturing and professional, scientific and technical services.

Given the proximity to larger urban centres and countryside landscapes, north Durham also supports a thriving tourism sector. Visitors travel to north Durham to enjoy access to local food, agri-tourism experiences and recreational activities on freshwater lakes and hundreds of kilometres of trails.

The Region supports the townships of Scugog, Uxbridge and Brock with economic development and tourism initiatives through the Vibrant North Durham Economic Development Plan.

Stay up to date on the Region's agriculture and rural news by following the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Twitter account or sign up for the Durham Region Agriculture and Rural Affairs bi-monthly e-newsletter.