Farmers, environmental organizations, snowmobiling groups and rural residents are voicing concerns about the proposed Alto high-speed rail network planned to connect Toronto and Quebec City.

The federal project, announced in 2025 and estimated to cost between $60 billion and $90 billion, is projected to boost Canada’s GDP, create thousands of jobs and increase tourism revenue.

However, several communities along the proposed corridor argue that the project could severely disrupt farmland, wildlife habitats and rural connectivity.Farmer Andie Bower, who operates Ferme Mont-Vulley Inc.

, said the proposed route would cut through his approximately 2,000-acre property, removing strips of farmland and tree lines that currently support wildlife movement and agricultural operations.

He fears increased travel costs across divided fields, noise impacts on livestock and pollinators, and long-term uncertainty surrounding plans to build a new home on the property.Bower also criticized the lack of clear communication channels for affected landowners.

Environmental advocates, including the Algonquin to Adirondacks Collaborative, warned that the rail corridor could create a major barrier for wildlife movement between protected ecological regions.Concerns include habitat fragmentation, disruptions caused by noise and vibration, and potential impacts on wetlands.The organization supports mitigation measures such as elevated rail sections and wildlife crossings.

The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs also warned that thousands of kilometres of snowmobile trails could be affected, potentially harming tourism and winter economies in rural Ontario.Meanwhile, Ontario MP Scott Reid compared the possible community impacts to divisions caused by previous highway developments.

Critics are urging the government to consider using existing transportation corridors or to adopt stronger mitigation strategies before moving forward.