Agriculture and Innovation in the Urban Fringe: The Case of Organic Farming in Quebec, Canada

Abstract

This paper presents the urban fringe as an area where alternative forms of agriculture, i.e. organic farming, are favoured through closer access to such resources as a large urban market and specialised agricultural services. An analysis of organic farming in Quebec, Canada, shows that urban fringe areas account for the highest level of activity in organic farming compared to other regions, confirming the presence of conditions encouraging innovation. Concentrations of organic farming are also present within urban fringe areas, suggestive of other factors, e.g. the role of local actors, which also influence the development of alternative and innovative forms of agriculture.