ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF FARM RISKS
I understand that Grindstone Creek Farm is a working farm and that visiting the property and participating in farm activities involves inherent risks that cannot be completely eliminated.
These risks may include, but are not limited to:
• contact with cattle, calves, goats, sheep, horses, miniature horses, donkeys, pigs, poultry and other animals;
• animals biting, kicking, scratching, pecking, pushing, stepping on, head-butting, charging, jumping, pulling or otherwise behaving unpredictably;
• feeding, petting, grooming, walking or otherwise interacting with animals;
• bottle feeding calves and other supervised animal experiences;
• uneven, muddy, wet, icy, slippery or rough ground;
• holes, rocks, roots, manure, bedding, hay, straw and other natural or farm-related obstacles;
• fences, gates, stalls, barns, shelters, pens and other farm structures;
• farm machinery, equipment, tools and vehicles;
• exposure to dust, hay, straw, animal dander, insects, manure, bacteria, allergens and other conditions normally associated with a working farm;
• weather conditions and changing outdoor conditions; and
• the actions of other visitors, participants or animals.
I understand that animals are inherently unpredictable and may react suddenly regardless of their previous behaviour, temperament, training or familiarity with people.
I voluntarily choose to enter Grindstone Creek Farm and/or participate in farm activities with knowledge of these risks.
ASSUMPTION OF RISK
I knowingly and voluntarily assume the inherent risks associated with being on a working farm and participating in farm activities, including the risk of bodily injury, illness, property damage or other loss.
I agree to follow all posted rules and all instructions given by Grindstone Creek Farm staff or representatives.
I understand that entering animal enclosures or participating in animal interactions is permitted only when authorized.
I understand that I am responsible for exercising reasonable care for my own safety while on the property.
CHILDREN AND SUPERVISION
Children must remain under the direct supervision of their parent, legal guardian or responsible accompanying adult at all times.
If I am signing in connection with a minor participant, I confirm that I am the minor’s parent or legal guardian, or otherwise have lawful authority to make decisions concerning that minor’s participation.
I understand the risks described in this agreement and consent to the minor participating in the farm visit and permitted farm activities.
I agree to supervise any minor in my care and to ensure that the minor follows all farm rules and instructions.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY
In consideration of being permitted to enter Grindstone Creek Farm and participate in farm activities, I agree, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to release and hold harmless Grindstone Creek Farm and its owners, operators, employees, agents, representatives and volunteers from claims arising from my participation in the farm visit or permitted farm activities, including claims arising from ordinary negligence, except to the extent that liability cannot lawfully be excluded or released.
I understand that this release is intended to apply to injuries, illness, property damage or other loss associated with the risks described in this agreement.
Nothing in this agreement is intended to exclude liability that cannot legally be excluded under Ontario law.
PERSONAL PROPERTY
I understand that Grindstone Creek Farm is not responsible for loss of or damage to personal belongings except to the extent that responsibility cannot legally be excluded.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I confirm that:
• I have read this entire agreement;
• I understand the nature of the risks associated with visiting and participating in activities at a working farm;
• I have had the opportunity to ask questions before signing;
• I understand that this agreement affects legal rights;
• I am signing voluntarily; and
• the information I have provided is accurate.
