A University of Guelph research initiative is working to improve the understanding of rural communities across Ontario through a large-scale survey.
The Health, Economy, and Adaptation in Rural Communities (HEAR) Initiative is collecting information from 200,000 households to create a more complete picture of life in rural, small-town and northern communities.
The project focuses on health, economic well-being and climate adaptation, while addressing gaps in existing data that can make local needs harder to identify. Researchers say the information will help communities with planning, funding applications, advocacy and decision-making.
Data collected through HEAR will eventually be shared through a public dashboard, allowing communities, organizations and researchers to access local information.
Residents across rural Ontario are encouraged to take part in the survey and help ensure their communities are better represented in future planning and policy decisions.
Learn more or take the survey here.
Written by Emily Chatwood
