Author(s)

NATASHA GAUDIO HARRISON, SARA EPP, RYAN GIBSON, CHRIS FULLERTON

Abstract

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many regions have seen increased urban–rural migration as people sought relative affordability and outdoor space. In Ontario, Canada, most rural communities experienced population increases as of the 2021 census as a result of in-migration from larger cities, reversing longstanding population decline trends. Using a province-wide survey, interviews and workshops, our research engaged local governments across the province to understand the impacts of these unexpected population gains. Using two case studies in Ontario’s Cottage Country, we find that infrastructure shortages were persistent challenges, as well as conflict between new and existing residents. We also found that migration trends since COVID-19 highlighted the importance of public outdoor spaces in both rural and urban communities, including nature-based spaces.

Keywords

migration, rural, recreation, COVID-19, rural planning