Rural Response to COVID-19: A case study of Perth Huron, Ontario

The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are far-reaching and extend beyond the spread of the disease and efforts to quarantine it. With emergency management efforts underway, opportunities exist to develop more effective and efficient response measures to increase the resiliency of our communities amidst this and future public health crises. Developing impactful resilience strategies requires a regional- and community-scale focus. While most Canadians live in urban centres, nearly 20% of the national population resides in small and/or rural centres. Across Canada’s rural landscape are communities facing unique realities, complex challenges, and numerous opportunities. In partnership with the Social Research and Planning Council and the Huron Arts and Heritage Network, this project will examine Huron and Perth Counties as case studies to explore what planning activities are required in small and rural communities to best support ongoing recovery efforts and to increase resiliency and well-being over the long-term. Outcomes from this project will support rural communities to develop effective local policies and planning strategies to respond to the coronavirus pandemic and future disruptive events.

Faculty Supervisor:

Leith Deacon;Wayne Caldwell;Silvia Sarapura;Sara Epp

Student:

Rachel Neiser;Patrick Fung

Partner:

Discipline:

Environmental sciences

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

University of Guelph

Program: