Ridgetown

The heart of Chatham-Kent’s agricultural sector is Ridgetown, population 3,250, home of the Ridgetown Campus of the University of Guelph. The school offers a variety of post-secondary programs and benefits from several partnerships with leading agricultural technology research groups including the Centre for Agricultural Renewable Energy & Sustainability, the Southwestern Ontario Bioproducts Innovation Network and the Ag Business Centre. Residents also enjoy sampling the abundance of seasonal local produce at the popular Ridgetown Farmer’s Market.

Manufacturing firms such as KSR International and Martinrea Fabco provide significant contributions to Ridgetown’s economic profile. The aerodynamic turbines of the Talbot Wind Farms and sun-soaked panels of the nearby solar farms are evidence of the region’s emerging green energy industry.

When it comes to getting away from it all, outdoor recreationalists head to the magnificent Rondeau Provincial Park for bird-watching, hiking and camping. Families with young children can meet the animals and learn about raising them at Greenview Aviaries & Zoo. The summer festival season includes the Boothill Country Jamboree in Muirkirk and the Ridgetown Festival of Porches and Verandahs.

Culture lovers can take part in the many year-round events and entertainment at the Mary Webb Centre in nearby Highgate, the Ridge House Museum or enjoy a performance of the Ridge Players at the local theatre.

Ridgetown’s natural beauty is enhanced by the many local gardens maintained by residents and members of the town’s Horticultural Society.