Agri-Tourism Risks when Visiting Our Farm

At Harmony Meadows Alpaca, we welcome visitors to experience the beauty and excitement of Agri-tourism. While we take extensive measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment, it is important for visitors to understand the inherent risks associated with visiting a working farm. This page outlines potential risks, visitor responsibilities, and our commitments in compliance with the Ontario Growing Agritourism Act, 2024 (S.O. 2024, c. 38 - Bill 186).

1. Understanding the Risks

Farms are unique environments with both natural and operational hazards. Visitors should be aware of the following risks:

      • Animal Interaction Risks: Animals may behave unpredictably, for example, by biting, kicking, or spitting. 
      • Animals Engaging in Natural Behaviours: Animals may interact with other animals in ways that are aggressive, loud, and/or sexual in nature which may be disconcerting to some.
      • Uneven Terrain: Farms have natural and man-made features, including mud, rocks, ditches, and slopes, which may increase the risk of trips and falls.
      • Machinery and Equipment: Agricultural machinery, tools, and vehicles are in operation and may pose safety hazards.
      • Weather Conditions: Outdoor activities are subject to changing weather, including extreme heat, cold, icy or wet conditions.
      • Allergens and Plant Exposure: Exposure to animals, insects, pollen, hay, or plants may trigger allergies or skin irritation.
      • Zoonotic Diseases: There is a potential for disease transmission between humans and animals.  Animals do not use washrooms, and there may be manure exposure when walking on the property.
      • Restricted Areas: Parts of the farm may be off-limits at times and may change for any reason.


2. Participant / Visitor Responsibilities:

By entering the premises, visitors acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with an Agri-tourism environment. Visitors are responsible for:

      • Supervising children at all times.
      • Following all posted signage and staff instructions.
      • Refraining from entering restricted areas.
      • Avoiding direct contact with animals unless permitted by farm staff.
      • Wearing appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor and farm conditions.
      • Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands after animal interactions.
      • Respecting farm property, equipment, and other visitors.


3. Farm Operator Responsibilities

Under the Ontario Growing Agritourism Act, 2024, Harmony Meadows Alpaca is committed to:

      • Providing clear and visible safety signage throughout the farm.
      • Providing access to a washroom and/or handwash station.
      • Implementing reasonable safety measures to mitigate risks.
      • Training staff to supervise and guide visitors appropriately.
      • Keeping animal enclosures and public areas well-maintained.
      • Informing visitors of potential risks through this notice and verbal communication.
      • Ensuring compliance with all provincial regulations regarding agri-tourism safety.


4. Access to Emergency Medical Services

Our farm is a rural location within a Township that operates a volunteer fire department which does not have a fixed location for ambulance services.  Emergency Services have response times that are generally higher / longer than are typical in more urban locations.
Our farm does have some staff members certificated in First-Aid, and/or CPR, but may not be available to assist with any injuries sustained while visiting our farm.
A Naloxone kit is made available in our farm store.

5. Liability Disclaimer

In accordance with the Ontario Growing Agritourism Act, 2024, visitors acknowledge that by participating in farm activities, they assume all risks associated with their visit. Harmony Meadow Alpaca, its owners, staff, and affiliates shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage incurred during the visit, except in cases of proven negligence.

6. Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding farm safety and policies, please contact us:

Harmony Meadows Alpaca
6185 Sixth Line,
Belwood, ON
N0B 1J0
info@harmonymeadowsalpaca.ca

Phone: 519-927-0939

By visiting Harmony Meadows Alpaca, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this risk notice. We look forward to welcoming you to our farm and providing a memorable and safe experience.