Lil’wat First Nation Agricultural Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, First Nations and Indigenous Food Systems, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agricultural advisory committee, community food system education, composting, demonstration farm, farmer training, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, research and data collection, roads in agricultural land, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2014

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy, and development;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with Pemberton Valley Dyking District and AANDC to improve water management for agriculture; 3.1 (2)
policy partnerships, advocacy, and development; research and data collection; Review agricultural bylaws in other jurisdictions and adopt bylaws and enforcement to prevent range practices on the communal lands that are degrading grasslands; 3.1 (3)

development and productive use of agricultural land;

 zoning; Consider strengthening zoning and defining allowable uses more specifically on Pasture Lands and Rural Residential Zones to ensure that non-farm development does not encroach onto or reduce the capability of farmland; 3.1 (4)
food production;   Explore projects to improve current farming efforts, the most important being improved livestock control, pasture fencing and sustainable management, and more productive family gardening;

 		 3.2 (1)
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Explore incentives and/or eliminate drawbacks to encourage traditional occupiers of lands designated or zoned for agriculture to farm, such as providing assistance to construct irrigation wells or build exclusion fencing; 3.2 (2)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Identify sites and provide access to irrigation water at locations considered appropriate forb agriculture; 3.2 (4)
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard Create a village or community garden sub-zone in the Land Use Plan and promote family community gardening; 3.2 (5)
land access; research and data collection; Assist citizens to access growing areas in the lowlands and at the town site by keeping an up-to-date inventory of citizens wanting to farm and linking them with those willing to provide land for this purpose; 3.2 (6)
land access; leasing of land for agriculture; Develop rental and leasing agreements that accommodate traditional occupier interests and create security for undertaking farming activities under the authority of the Nation’s Land Code; 3.2 (7)
land access; leasing of land for agriculture; Develop band-administered leasing arrangements based on enforceable contractual arrangements, e.g. under the new Lil’wat Nation Land Code; 3.2 (8)

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

roads in agricultural land;

research and data collection;

 Identify landlocked farmland and design, designate and build a road system that provides physical access by citizens to their inaccessible properties; 3.2 (9)
development and productive use of agricultural land; livestock; Eliminate damage caused by roaming livestock by creating and enforcing a policy or bylaw under the authority of the Nation’s Land Code to:
· Require that livestock be registered (tagged or branded);
· Require that livestock owners keep their animals fenced in;
· Fence livestock out of environmentally sensitive areas;
· Regulate and enforce irresponsible farmer behaviour (e.g., impound stray animals, fine for breach of conditions, auction off if not resolved in a timely manner).		 3.2 (10)
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

livestock;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Attain sustainable use of communal pasture and hay lands by:


· Establishing a system of pasture management to manage these resources for the benefit of Citizens and the community;


· Limiting herd population in the communal area to a sustainable level based on an assessment of what the land can provide;


· Setting up a system to allocate pasture quota fairly to animal owners;


· Implementing a plan to rehabilitate the grass lands, including a fencing plan;


· Preparing a capital and financing plan for managing the pasture, possibly including a user fee system to cover repair and maintenance.

 3.2 (11)
education;

demonstration farm;

community food system education;

farmer training;
Work with Kwantlen Polytechnic University to establish and operate a multi-year hands-on Farm School on Lil’wat agricultural land;		 3.3 (1)
education; community food system education; Work with the local School District and Xet’olacw Community School to introduce agricultural topics and classes; 8 3.3 (2)

urban agriculture;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 urban gardens/orchard; Work with local funding organizations to encourage family gardening and create community gardening projects; 3.3 (3)

education;

waste management;

 composting; Engage non-profit organizations in initiatives related to composting opportunities at Lil’wat Nation and training in community oriented agricultural activity; 3.3 (4)

education;

nutrition and public health;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Explore opportunities to partner with organizations with personnel and resources in food areas of interest to Lil’wat citizens, including traditional foods, nutrition and food preparation; 3.3 (5)

education;

   Explore opportunities for Lil’wat citizens to mentor with agri-businesses in Pemberton, possibly in cooperation with the Pemberton Farmers Institute 3.3 (6)
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Develop pasture management and livestock control on Lil’wat lands to provide opportunities for sustainable land use; 3.4 (1)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

livestock;

research and data collection;

 Research agricultural policies and bylaws in other jurisdictions for application, as appropriate, to Lil’wat agricultural lands; 3.4 (2)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Assist in making water resources available to small lot operators, by accessing supply from nearby rivers in an environmentally sustainable fashion; 3.4 (3)

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Develop working relationships with Pemberton Farmers Institute and Pemberton and Whistler Farmers Markets to make citizen entrepreneurs aware of market opportunities for local products; 3.4 (4)
education;   Invite groups, entrepreneurs and agencies to speak at workshops on agricultural opportunities and business development; 3.4 (5)

education;

urban agriculture;

 urban gardens/orchard; Develop a community supported farming project catering to Lil’wat citizens, for example expanding the demonstration garden managed by the school in 2014 or partnering with likeminded community gardening advocates in the Squamish Lillooet Regional District to garner citizen support and involvement. 3.4 (6)
First Nations and indigenous food systems; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Create a Lands Section authority/responsibility within the Band for supporting citizens and participating in agricultural projects. This could be an entity within Band government delegated with the authority for the management of Lil’wat agricultural land. 3.5 (1)

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Establish an Agriculture Advisory Committee to oversee the implementation of the Agricultural Plan and advise Chief and Council and the Agricultural Coordinator, as required. It is anticipated that the Steering Committee guiding the agricultural planning process has several individuals who could continue to serve in this function. 3.5 (2)
First Nations and indigenous food systems;   Support citizen agricultural initiatives by assisting in accessing lending programs; 3.5 (3)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Engage government agencies and programs to financially assist in feasibility studies and business start-up planning, such as Investment Agriculture Foundation, Community Futures, Aboriginal Business Development Program, CESO Aboriginal Services; Business Development Bank of Canada. 3.5 (4)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising Create an Agricultural Coordinator position within the Lands Section of the Lil’wat Nation governance structure. The role of this position would be to implement the Lil’wat Nation Agricultural Plan, including coordinating and liaising with partners and participants and implementing the plan’s recommendations. Another important function of the Agricultural Coordinator would be to represent the interests of agriculture in dealing with potential impacts to agricultural resources from local, non-agricultural developments. 3.5 (5)

ALC Policy: Lease of a Portion of ALR for Farm Use

Topic(s): Land Access

Sub-topic(s): leasing of land for agriculture, ALR

Document Type: Policy | Year: consolidated 2016

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ALC regulation and interpretation of the lease of a portion of ALR for farm use.

Village of Kaslo Food Charter

Topic(s): Education, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Food Self Reliance, Land Access, Nutrition and Public Health, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): local food culture, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, local procurement, edible landscaping, wildlife and ecosystem management, composting, soil, leasing of land for agriculture, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Central Kootenay | Document Type: Food Charter | Year: 2007

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 1. Champion the importance of food security to federal, provincial and regional government partners.

food sales, access and procurement;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

   2. Champion the right of all residents to have access to adequate amounts of safe, and nutritious, food without the need to resort to emergency food providers and
advocate for policies that support the secure and dignified access to the food people need
nutrition and public health;   3. Sponsor nutrition programs and services that promote healthy growth in children
and help prevent diet-related diseases in later life

food sales, access and procurement;

nutrition and public health;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 4. Partner with local producers, community, cooperative, business and government
organizations to increase the availability of healthy local foods
education; local food culture; 5. Support events that highlight the region’s diverse food shed
nutrition and public health;   6. Promote food safety programs and services.

food sales, access and procurement;

local procurement;

local food culture;

 7. Foster a civic culture that inspires all Kaslo residents and all village departments to support local food producers and food programs that provide cultural, social,
economic and health benefits by adopting food purchasing practices for Village
sponsored events that serve as a model of health, social and environmental responsibility

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

edible landscaping;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 8. Plant Village decorative gardens with food producing species that are maintained
and managed to promote the conservation of wildlife.

urban agriculture;

food self reliance;

urban gardens/orchard;

 9. Encourage the use of our community garden to increase food self-reliance, improve fitness, contribute to a cleaner environment, and enhance community development

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 10. Advocate for the protection of local producers, agricultural lands and support
agriculture through initiatives that highlight the importance of our farmers by
working towards an equitable economy that values food producers and the land
they grow food on
land access;

leasing of land for agriculture;

 11. Consider accepting applications for Village owned land to be leased for food
production.

waste management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

composting;

soil;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 12. Support and implement the separation of organic materials from the waste system to be recycled and be made available to nurture soil fertility while reducing compost and foodstuffs garbage that attract bears 

food production;

urban agriculture;

   13. Foster policies that encourage and assist Village residents to produce their own
food in their gardens.

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; 14. Recognize that water is an intricate and essential element to a healthy community and advocate for responsible use

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; 15. Work with community agencies, residents’ groups, businesses and other levels of government to achieve these goals.

District of Maple Ridge Agricultural Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, agricultural industry services, ALR, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, disclosure agreement, farmer training, food distribution, food processing, food storage, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pesticide and pest management, protection of farming development permit area, research and data collection, stormwater management, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2009

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

land access;

urban agriculture;

education;

 

research and data collection;

leasing of land for agriculture;

ALR;

Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land.

Recommendations

a) Develop a strategy to increase landowner awareness of farmland leasing options, taxation benefits, and community demand for local production  
b) Create a database of farmland available for leasing, including a database maintenance strategy 
c) Develop access to materials on lease/rental terms and sample agreements, possibly website delivered  
d) Create educational materials for agricultural property owners regarding stewardship of agricultural land 
e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate discussion on the role of small lot property owners in enhancing local agriculture in the District (gaining access to land, pooling of small lots, rent calculator, lessee responsibilities) 
f) Identify and promote opportunities for development of urban agriculture

 5.1

education;

land access;

new entrants to farming;

community food system education;

farmer training;

Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers.

Recommendations.

a) Partner with farmers to create apprenticeship opportunities and mentorships, and to attract workers to agriculture in the area
b) Pursue options and opportunities to provide a hands-on training ground for aspiring farmers
c) Engage high schools and post-secondary institutions in local farmer training initiatives
d) Investigate innovative ways aspiring new farmers without land may be encouraged to access agricultural land currently not in production
e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate information exchange on small lot agriculture (production techniques, organic, equipment, pest management)
f) Develop information sharing and exchange networks and coalitions with like-minded groups in other areas
g) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute (see Glossary) to coordinate and implement the knowledge base initiatives identified in this Agricultural Plan
h) Develop awareness of educational initiatives in the local community. 
 

 5.2
education;

research and data collection;

local food culture;

community food system education;

Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public.

Recommendations.

a) Develop an inventory of local agricultural land use and agricultural products produced
b) Create newspaper slot highlighting farming, seasonal recipes, farmer direct markets
c) Encourage retailers to advertise and identify locally produced and seasonal products
d) Partner with schools and the School District to communicate information about farming
e) Create more hands-on displays at District Fair
f) Host a “Taste of Maple Ridge” event annually
g) Engage local chefs to partner in local food promotion
h) Partner with schools to develop agricultural curriculum, including coordinating with the Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation and the School Gardens project
i) Report on Agricultural Plan completion in the media
j) Report regularly in the media on progress and issues relating to implementing the Agricultural Plan
k) Provide continued support for the Haney Farmers Market. 
 

 5.3

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement

food storage;

food distribution;

 

Develop the Local Distribution and Marketing System.

Recommendations.

a) Work with producers to: investigate the potential for marketing cooperatives; brokerages; machinery cooperatives; investigate community storage and handling options; learn about marketing models; branding  
b) Hold workshops on local marketing and distribution systems  
c) Enlist the participation of local expertise up-to-date on food marketing  issues  
d) Develop a strategy to assist the development of distribution and marketing options in the District 
e) Pursue the development of  key components of a local distribution system, including cooling, handling, and staging area for fresh produce (e.g., food terminal) 
f) Investigate marketing needs of local farming community

 5.4

development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

protection of farming development permit area;

Protect the Agricultural Land Base.

Recommendations 
a) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities 
b) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating guidelines for reviewing applications for non-farm use, exclusions, fill applications, 
transportation and utility applications, subdivisions, and government applications 
c) Investigate federal, provincial, and Metro Vancouver support for agriculture irrigation water supply expansion 
d) Explore opportunities to protect agricultural land from development through a variety of means such as donations of land, covenants, easements, agricultural use of municipal land, consolidation of land, and other mechanisms that support agriculture  
e) Support opportunities to provide land for community based agriculture    
f) Explore establishing an agricultural levy on agricultural land conversion developments to ensure that capital is available to finance the agricultural strategy in this plan 
g) Explore retention of lots 2 ha (5 acres) and larger in the Agricultural Land Reserve 
h) Support and encourage applications to include lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve

 5.5
water management;

ALR;

irrigation and drainage;

stormwater management;

Rehabilitate and Improve the Agricultural Infrastructure.

Recommendations

a) Investigate a watershed-based surface and groundwater irrigation strategy 
b) Where a need is identified, undertake a water supply inventory for lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve 
c) Explore establishing a drainage and flood control levy  
d) Require upland land owners and  applicants to control storm water flows into the flood plain 
e) Undertake a feasibility study of drainage and flood control to rehabilitate affected areas 
f) Continue to build relationship with the neighbouring municipality 
g) Require compensation from unavoidable agricultural land conversion developments to be used to increase net agricultural capability in the District 
h) Encourage the Agricultural Land Commission to enforce agreements entered into with proponents that allow applications to proceed on  Agricultural Land Reserve land

 5.6
food processing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

agricultural industry services;

Develop Local Food System Infrastructure Capacity.

a) Work with producers and local entrepreneurs to explore the feasibility of an agroindustrial infrastructure strategy that could include: shared industrial spaces; branding; small scale processing facilities; community kitchens; mobile slaughter facilities

 5.7
economic development;

agri-tourism;

urban gardens/orchards

Increase the Diversity of Agricultural Activity.  

Recommendations

a) Work with the AAC to promote and gauge the feasibility of alternative models of community supported agriculture 
b) Continue to acknowledge and incorporate agriculture into District economic development strategies and plans 
c) Explore  the agro-tourism policies of the Agricultural Land Commission for their potential to provide new and expanded opportunities for farmers and possible inclusion into District bylaws. 
d) Promote local agri-businesses and activities on District website and publications 
e) Encourage linkages in the agricultural sector in Maple Ridge to identify cross-demand for products  and services  
f) Identify a community work force for agriculture 
g) Identify community demand and develop linkages for participatory food production 
h) Provide opportunities for community gardening, allotments, and urban demonstration plots

 5.8
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

protection fo farming development permit area;

disclosure agreement;

nuisance complaints;

Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural-Residential Interface.

a) Implement Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural  encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities, including specific provisions for buffer zones, appropriate landscaping, subdivision design, and building location 
b) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute to implement agricultural initiatives identified in this Plan 
c) Require notices on title on properties adjacent to agricultural lands (disclosure statements) to avoid neighbourhood conflicts   
d) Enforce noxious weed bylaw on idle land in the  Agricultural Land Reserve, municipal rights of-way, and utility rights of way 
e) Create respect for property rights of farmers respecting trespass, vandalism, and harassment 
f) Develop a neighbourhood community watch for stray dogs, animals, and trespass 
g) Develop ongoing communication channels with non-farming landowners to promote “good  neighbour” relations 
h) Educate landowners adjacent to agricultural land of potential for farming activities on neighbouring properties. 

 5.9
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

pesticide and pest management;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment

Recommendations 
a) Educate farmers about the benefits of completing and implementing Environmental Farm Plans 
b) Lobby to have the Environmental Farm Plan (see Glossary)  program broadened to include the equine sector, hobby farmers, and new farmers 
c) Identify options for farmers to manage farm manures in a sustainable manner 
d) Investigate and adopt new technologies to deal with farm wastes, alternative energy sources, and generation of greenhouse gases 
e) Develop interface,  linkage, and communications with Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment to create workable solutions to agriculture-environment issues in the District 
f) Educate and inform the community about the ecological goods and services agriculture provides in Maple Ridge 
g) Promote the use of natural methods of controlling pests

 5.10
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflict.

Recommendations 
a) Keep channels of communication open to advise on issues before they become problems  
b) Develop strategy to control populations of released domestic rabbits 
c) Work with farmers experiencing depredation from bears and deer to channel movement away from farms 
d) Support research to develop repellents and barriers for problem wildlife 
e) Identify opportunities and create incentives for land owners to participate in land management systems that enhance wildlife habitat and support agriculture

 5.11

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;

Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture

Recommendations 
a) Continue to retain the AAC to advise Council on issues affecting agriculture  
b) Develop results-based approach to new regulation, so that targets and effects are assessed before regulatory policy is implemented.  
c) Monitor proposed regulations to ensure they are not unnecessarily onerous on producers and agro-development 
d) Advocate for region-wide policies for agricultural area

 5.12
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR;

Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve (to address incompatible land use zoning for ALR).

Recommendations.

a) Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary 
b) Create a code of good land stewardship in the  Agricultural Land Reserve (abandoned cars, trailers, machinery, trash, obsolete signage, dumped soil) to prevent contamination and visual pollution (batteries, crankcase oil, unproductive fill) 
c) Encourage property owners to build in a fashion to conserve the land base and minimize potential for conflict with agricultural activity 
d) Explore changes in the RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) zone as it applies to land in the  Agricultural Land Reserve with respect to restrictions such as setbacks, lot coverage, and accessory buildings.

 5.13

Corporation of Delta Agricultural Area Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): ALR, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, covenants, crops, deposit of fill and dumping, disclosure agreement, farm diversification, farm traffic, farmland speculation, farmland trust, food processing, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, signage in agricultural areas, soil, tax mechanisms, urban gardens/orchard, water rate for agriculture, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food processing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

farm diversification;

 Encourage and facilitate local on-farm processing opportunities with on-farm regulatory processes and requirements that encourage diversification 5.1.1
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing;  Investigate the feasibility of attracting processors for local crops by providing financial incentives and serviced locations. Identify and target appropriate scale niche and value chain opportunities presented by the Delta agricultural sector 5.1.1
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing; tax mechanisms; Investigate the feasibility of attracting processors using a revitalization tax exemption program bylaw 5.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Lobby for the incorporation of on-farm value-added as eligible farm income for farm tax assessment purposes. 5.1.1

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

water management

water rate for agriculture;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Advocate with Metro Vancouver for regional bulk water rates for agriculture (e.g., Capital Regional District) or otherwise reduce the cost of municipal water to farmers) 5.1.2
  climate change and greenhouse gases; Investigate the feasibility of alternative fuel technologies (e.g., cogeneration) to support farm operations and reduce GHG emissions 5.1.2
economic development;   Encourage farmer buying groups for inputs (fertilizer, lime, feed, other inputs) 5.1.2

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

land access;

leasing of land for agriculture;

farmland trust;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

  Advocate for a regional agricultural trust to acquire agricultural land and provide affordable long term leases to farmers. 5.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Lobby senior governments to investigate and research opportunities and create incentives for farmers to reduce GHG emissions. 5.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; tax mechanisms;   Lobby the Province to investigate farmstead provisions that would tax agricultural buildings and improvements of bona fide farmers at a lower agricultural rate or provide tax exemptions for farm improvements (e.g., New York State, North Dakota). 5.1.2
development and productive use of agricultural land; deposit of fill and dumping; Identify areas where dumping of waste on agricultural lands is occurring, improve frequency of clean-up, and  increase bylaw enforcement 5.1.3
education;

recreational use of agricultural land;

signage is agricultural areas;

 Review and maintain signage and provide education material to recreational users that they are in an agricultural area and that agricultural activities are acceptable 5.1.3
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

nuisance complaints;

covenants;

residential development;

disclosure agreement;

 Require notification/disclosure on property transactions adjacent to agricultural lands that purchasers may expect normal farm practices, possibly  through a covenant 5.1.3
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

farm diversification;

 Assist farmers to navigate the regulatory requirements in pursuing innovative projects (e.g., energy and waste management technologies), on-farm value added and diversification 5.1.4
  climate change and greenhouse gases;  Work with farmers to develop technological and land based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with agricultural practices and to make farm business more resilient to future impacts of climate change by investing in adaptation strategies for agriculture. 5.1.4
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising;  Support farmers in dealings with federal and provincial agencies, such as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment, to ensure that conditions for efficient agriculture are enhanced, and specifically work toward “agriculture-friendly” protocols for ditch and dike maintenance that protect the environment and are timely, reasonable and feasible from an agricultural perspective 5.1.5
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Build agricultural understanding in municipal Hall with agriculturally qualified staff (e.g., professional agrologist), information sessions, tours and dialogue 5.1.5
wildlife, environmental and pest management; BC environmental farm plan; Encourage environmental farm planning, the adoption of beneficial management practices, and other environmental initiatives to reduce environmental risks and regulatory compliance costs 5.1.5
water management;

crops;

food processing;

irrigation and drainage;

 Ensure municipal water is accessible to support high valued crops production and on-farm processing. 5.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Continue to improve agricultural drainage and irrigation  5.2.1
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; farm traffic; Continue to work with the farming community to explore options to improve agricultural vehicle movement (e.g., through the Highways Bylaw) 5.2.2
economic development;

new entrants to farming;

farm diversification;
In collaboration with Metro Vancouver, neighbouring municipalities and BCMA, investigate options for providing agrologist services to assist start up farmers and identify funding sources to pursue new business ideas.		 5.3.1
education;

new entrants to farming;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Enhance relationships with Delta farmers, secondary and post-secondary education institutions, agricultural academies, ministries and associations to facilitate events and initiatives to provide new/young farmers with training, mentoring, technical expertise, production knowledge, and access to agricultural programs that would promote knowledge transfer and build capacity in smaller scale farming 5.3.1
economic development; farm diversification;  Explore and support farming models that develop stronger connections between the farming community and the local marketplace and encourage new types of agricultural enterprise, such as community supported agriculture, cooperatives, local food alliances, and community networks. 5.3.1
education; new entrants to farming; Support on-farm internship programs (e.g., Canadian Farm Business Management Council, CRAFTOntario program, WWOOF Canada
 		 5.3.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Lobby senior governments for the development of family trust legislation to facilitate transfer of farmland between generations 5.3.1
land access;

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

 Investigate incentives to encourage active farmland use, by improving access by aspiring and landless farmers, spurring existing non-farming farmland owners to lease out their land, exploring agricultural trusts, and encouraging longer lease terms. 5.3.2
land access;

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

 Make municipal and Crown land available for farming under lease to young farmers and new entrants. 5.3.2
land access; farmland trust; Explore new relationships with existing land trusts (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, The Land Conservancy), to increase access to farmland by farmers. 5.3.2
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

deposit of fill and dumping;

 Improve enforcement of existing regulations in farming areas including soil filling, storage, waste dumping, and maintenance of agricultural properties, engaging the AAC to assist in spotting violations and problem areas 5.3.3
development and productive use of agricultural land;

farmland speculation;

ALR;

 Explore financial mechanisms to address farmland speculation and deter non-agricultural development on farmland. 5.3.3

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

education;

nuisance complaints;

ALR;

residential development;

 Educate rural-residential property owners about normal impacts associated with adjacent agricultural operations and create awareness among realtors and non-agricultural property purchasers of farming activities in the ALR 5.3.3
land access;

covenants

farmland trust

 Encourage agricultural and other land trusts to make their farmland available to Delta famers without covenants that restrict its agricultural use. 5.3.3
education;

local food culture;

community food system education;

 Build on existing farmer-supported agricultural awareness events such as “Farm Hike by Bike” (Earthwise) or “A Day at the Farm”, Delta Farm Tours, and “Meet Your Maker” events, work with local tourism/hospitality industry to initiate ‘taste of Delta’ food promotions at Delta restaurants and hotels, and other opportunities for the public to experience local food and agriculture 5.4.1
education; community food system education; Develop a multi-partner communications plan to engage farm groups e.g. by creating contact lists of farmers and farmers organizations
willing to educate the public, distributing a “Champions of Farming” speakers list to the Rotary Club, Delta Chamber of Commerce and other groups, encouraging presentations on agricultural issues and to engage the public, (e.g., agricultural awareness events, newspaper coverage, crop information, and farm field identification.		 5.4.1

urban agriculture;

education;

community food system education;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Support and expand opportunities for community gardens/urban agriculture demonstrations to promote agricultural awareness, through additional funding , supportive bylaws and provision of land 5.4.1
economic development; research and data collection; Encourage reports and research that show what the returns to farmers are on agricultural products, where the food dollar goes in the food chain, and the cost of food in relation to other staples in the community 5.4.1

education;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

signage in agricultural areas;

farm traffic;

 Review and expand signage to identify agricultural areas, what is grown in those areas, and indicate respect for farm traffic. 5.4.1
wildlife, environmental and pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Engage with the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust (DFWT) to promote initiatives to foster public awareness of how farmland sustains wildlife and habitat and to build support for more equitable sharing of the costs of providing ecological goods and services. 5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife nad ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Lobby senior governments for programs to compensate farmers for wildlife crop damage, through participation in federal –provincial waterfowl damage compensation programs. 5.4.2

development and productive use of agricultural land;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships and advocacy;

 Lobby the ALC, provincial ministries, BC EAO and CEAA to develop a better framework for addressing loss of land base due to public infrastructure works, transportation projects, land claims, wildlife and fisheries policy, incorporating compensation and mitigation to offset the negative impact on agriculture. 5.4.2
wildlife, environmental and pest management;

research and data collection;

wildlife and ecosystem management; 

 Support research into integrated farm-level strategies to mitigate the potential for damages from waterfowl.  5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Advocate with Metro Vancouver to establish a program to compensate farmers for ecological goods and services that agricultural land provides (e.g. creating a regional levy) 5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with environmental agencies to develop effective ways of managing agriculturally sustainable wildlife populations 5.4.2
economic development; local food culture; 

Work with Metro Vancouver and other lower Mainland municipalities to investigate the feasibility of regional branding for agricultural products, developing a “buy regional” policy for local governments, and engaging businesses, schools, government agencies, and institutions to participate.

 5.4.3
 

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and development ;

crops;

 Pursue opportunities to re-instate on-farm field trials function, specifically in relation to crops grown in Delta and responses to cope with impending climate change 5.4.3
economic development;

tax mechanisms;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Explore on-farm carbon tax and sequestration responses that would provide economic benefits to farming. 5.4.3

City of Abbotsford Agriculture Strategy

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): water rate for agriculture, zoning, ALR, tax mechanisms, new entrants to farming, agricultural industry services, climate change and greenhouse gases, agri-tourism, agricultural impact assessment, gravel extraction, leasing of land for agriculture, waste to energy, composting, 'benefit to agriculture' language, roads in agricultural land, farm traffic, wildlife and ecosystem management, BC environmental farm plan, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, community food system education, signage in agricultural areas, irrigation and drainage, research and data collection, siting and coverage, farmers' markets, farm worker accommodation, residential development, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
water management;

water rate for agriculture;

ALR;

 Decouple rural servicing rates to non-agricultural farmland uses in the ALR from
preferential rates in support of agriculture		 5.1 ( c)
  zoning; tax mechanisms; Develop a more contemporary definition of agriculture, with taxation implications, to
support market opportunities in the peri-urban region		 5.1 (d)
education; new entrants to farming;  Pursue initiatives to train young people and attract new entrants into agriculture 5.1 (g)

food processing, storage and distribution;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

agricultural industry services;

ALR;

 Facilitate ancillary developments on agricultural lands in the ALR 5.1 (h)
waste management; education;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and data collection;

 Pursue research into processes and technology innovations that address agricultural issues including: management of agricultural by-products, energy production, agricultural responses to climate change, agronomic impacts of gravel extraction, eco-industrial technologies and solutions, agriculture-related problems and science based solutions 5.1 (i)
economic development; research and data collection; Utilize the City’s Agricultural Trust fund to further agricultural investment, research and innovation 5.1 (j)

Food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farmers' markets;

agri-tourism;

 Pursue strategies to promote the local food system, such as the development of a permanent Farmers Market and other marketing facilities, and integrating agro-tourism into the City’s tourism theme 5.1 (k)
 

farm worker accommodation;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with industry and government agencies to support the employment of seasonal and foreign agricultural workers, with respect to working conditions, accommodations, cultural services and accessibility to workers. 5.1 (l)
 

agricultural impact assessment;

gravel extraction; 

 Require agricultural impact assessments and reclamation plans for gravel extraction
projects, to be submitted to the City prior to extraction		 5.2 (b)
land access; leasing of land for agriculture; Support the leasing of farmland (including the existing MLS system) with additional
mechanisms (agreement templates, websites and incentives) that identify potential
landlords and tenants.		 5.2 (c )
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agriclutural land;

siting and coverage;

 Consider ways of reducing wasteful use of agricultural land for excessive building footprints, access roads, and inappropriate siting 5.2 (f)
development and productive use of agricultural land;

tax mechanisms;

residential development;

 nvestigate creating a tax classification to tax rural residential at urban residential rates 5.2 (g)
development and productive use of agricultural land; residential development;  Consider ways of tightening rural residential eligibility for farm classification. 5.2 (h)
waste management; agricultural industry services; Consider centralized sites for pursuing industry solutions and enabling farm and
processing (organic and non-organic) wastes to be handled together		 5.3 (a)
waste management; waste to energy; Explore synergies between waste management and energy production 5.3 (b)
waste management;

composting;

'net benefit to agriculture' language;

waste to energy;

 Support cost efficient waste management solutions (such as anaerobic digestion,
gasification, composting, recycling, etc.), provided these solutions offer a net benefit to
agriculture and do not negatively impact the environment.		 5.3 (c )
waste management;  research and data collection; Encourage and attract research and investigation into eco-industrial technologies and
solutions. 		 5.3 (d)
  agricultural industry services; Continue to attract agri-industrial investment to industrial-business lands 5.4 (a)
development and productive use of agricultural land; agricultural industry services; In consultation with the ALC, investigate the feasibility of developing agri-industrial uses
in the ALR in relation to farms, servicing and transportation infrastructure, and City-led
agri-industrial investment policies and initiatives		 5.4 (c )
economic development; research and data collection; Explore opportunities to attract agri-industrial research, technology, expertise, and
funding into the City		 5.4 (d)
  agricultural industry services; Pursue the development of an agri-food technology cluster in the City directly connected
to the agricultural production base. 		 5.4 (g)
water management; irrigation and drainage;  Encourage farmers to develop irrigation plans to quantify water needs and assist the City
in water supply planning		 5.5 (a)

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

road in agricultural land; farm traffic;

ALR;

 Plan transportation corridors in the ALR to facilitate access to farmland, minimize
disruptions to farming operations and reducing vehicle conflicts		 5.5 (b)
  irrigation and drainage; Investigate providing infrastructure bundles (water, sewer, electrical, hook-up to the grid)
to areas suited/targeted for certain types of agriculture		 5.5 (c)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Improve the ability of drainage systems to eliminate flooding of agricultural lands from
upland storm water runoff. 		 5.5 (g)
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

 Promote and support completion of environmental farm plans and use of Beneficial
Management Practices (BMPs) to improve agricultural operations and provide
environmental benefits		 5.6 (a)

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

  Continue to promote farmer’s interests with agencies regulating maintenance of
drainage, irrigation and flood control systems		 5.6 (b)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

 Designate City staff positions to strengthen understandings and relationships between
farmers and government (economic development officer for agriculture, agricultural
liaisons)		 5.6 (c)

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

 Involve the City in reviews and processes dealing with agency regulations affecting
agriculture and in developing more ‘agriculture-friendly’ protocols for ditch and drainage
maintenance		 5.6 (d)
education; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Raise awareness of farmers on the requirements of senior legislation (e.g., provide
presentations to DDI and ASCA AGMs, prepare brochures, etc.)		 5.6 (e)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Develop agriculture-friendly scheduling processes to minimize impacts on agriculture
and facilitate City access onto private land for the purposes of ditch and drainage
maintenance		 5.6 (f)

policy partnerships,

advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising;; Create an agricultural variance committee to deal with special circumstances where the City of Abbotsford has jurisdiction 5.6 (g)
education; community food system education; Enhance agriculture education at schools 5.7 (a)

urban agriculture;

education;

urban gardens/orchard;

community food systems education;

 Support community gardens and/or urban agriculture demonstration projects and programs that promote agricultural awareness among City residents 5.7 (b)
education; community food systems education; Improve local business awareness of agriculture 5.7 (c)

education;

economic development;

signage in agricultural areas;

community food systems education;

agri-tourism;

 Create signage that identifies agricultural sub-areas or “neighbourhoods” within the City,
what is grown there, among other things, provides directional signage for agri-tourism,
and directs motorists to respect farm traffic		 5.7 (d)

City of Pitt Meadows Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2352

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Land Access, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Water Management

Sub-topic(s): agricultural impact assessment, ALR, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, covenants, farm worker accommodation, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, roads in agricultural land, stormwater management, urban containment/growth boundary, water restrictions and conservation

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2007

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary; The City is introducing the concept of an Urban Containment Boundary in this OCP.  For years, Pitt Meadows has effectively managed development growth through its commitment to farmland and the Agricultural Land Reserve and by way of its natural features (i.e. floodplain), which curtails development in most of the City.  An Urban Containment Boundary will more clearly identify those areas to be preserved as rural and those areas to be developed.  The Urban Containment Boundary is a conceptual line which generally coincides with the Agricultural Land Reserve and with Metro Vancouver’s Green Zone.  It is the intention of the City to consider development proposals in those areas where the Urban Containment Boundary does not coincide with one or both of these designations. section 1  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

recreational use of agricultural land;

Policies
f) With the exception of the operations lawfully in existence as of the date of adoption of this Plan, any development of new golf course facilities, driving ranges and other commercial recreation uses are not supported on agricultural lands.

 4.2.1 (f) *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

 leasing of land for agriculture; a) The City supports the retention of large land holdings, the consolidation of small parcels of land and the creation of long-term land leases to enable investment to occur within agricultural areas as part of helping to maintain and establish economically viable farm units;  4.2.2 (a) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 b) Fracturing or subdivision of agricultural parcels is not supported. However, the City may consider severance of a home-site parcel where the applicant has continuously owned and lived on the property prior to and since December 21,  1972, no previous subdivision of the property has occurred, and the minimum lot requirements of the City’s Zoning Bylaw are met 4.2.2 (b) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 Policies
a) Zoning regulations for residential dwellings on agricultural land that establish a building placement envelope at set distances from front and side lot lines and create building height restrictions will be considered. The City will also consider restricting the size of dwelling units. 		 4.2.3 (a)  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

farm worker accommodation;

residential development;

 b) All seasonal farm labour housing must conform to health and fire code regulations and not create housing opportunities for non-farm workers 4.2.3 (b) *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 agricultural impact assessment; Policies
a) An agricultural impact assessment prepared by a professional agrologist is required by the City quantifying the impacts of any proposed development that may affect agricultural activity, such as a non-farm use on farmland or rezoning or subdivision on lands adjacent to farmlands; 		 4.2.4 (a) *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

 b) In support of Provincial Right to Farm legislation, agricultural lands shall be buffered from urban uses that could have negative impacts on farm activities.  Developers of land close  to agricultural areas shall provide appropriate building setbacks and landscape buffering using the current standards of the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission and the City and shall also place restrictive covenants on title that outline the potential disruptions encountered when living or working close to agricultural areas (e.g. noise, odours, crop spraying, slow moving traffic); 4.2.4 (b) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 a) Residential development on agricultural lands for non-agricultural purposes is not encouraged by the City;  4.6.5 (a)  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

zoning;

residential development;

 Policies
b) Rural Residential lands as indicated on Schedule 3B are lands which are not within the Agricultural Land Reserve.  In order to ensure compatibility with surrounding farmland, residential density on rural lands shall not exceed a maximum of one lot per net hectare. No extension of the public sanitary sewage collection system will be  considered by the City for rural residential housing;		 4.6.5 (b) *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

 Conflicts between farm and non-farm traffic in agricultural areas will be reduced by directing non-farm traffic away from rural roads that serve farm traffic when designing new arterial or collector roads; 4.9.1.4 (j) *
water management;

water restrictions and conservation;

irrigation and drainage;

 b) The use of potable water for irrigation and agri-industrial uses is discouraged where other sources of water are available; 4.10.2 (b)  
water management; irrigation and drainage; c) The City will work with the agricultural community to develop a plan, including an appropriate funding model, to provide adequate irrigation water from the Pitt and Alouette Rivers. 4.10.2 (c)  
water management; stormwater management; a) The City will limit the extent  of urban run-off by requiring each development application to adhere to  the requirements outlined in the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw. In addition, the City will consider using similar limits on storm water run-off for large, intensive impervious agricultural projects 4.10.4 (a)  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

 Agricultural – 8 Hectare (20 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Land reserved for farming and agri-industrial uses that serve and support agriculture. The vast majority of the land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve and is governed by the Agricultural  Land Commission Act and Regulations. The intention of the designation is to provide a stable, long term land base for agriculture limited only by the Farm Practices Protection Act and the Agricultural Land Commission Act. The minimum parcel size is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission, but with the exception of subdivision for a Homesite Severance, shall be not less than 8 hectares.Agricultural – 16 Hectare (40 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Section 5 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

 Agricultural – 16 Hectare (40 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Land reserved for farming and agri-industrial uses that serve and support agriculture. The vast majority of the land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve and is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission Act and Regulations.The intention of the designation is to provide a stable, long term land base for agriculture limited only by the Farm Practices Protection Act and the Agricultural Land Commission Act. The minimum parcel size is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission, but with the exception of subdivision for a Homesite Severance, shall be not less than 16 hectares.  Section 5 *

City of Surrey Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 18020

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Nutrition and Public Health, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural impact assessment, agricultural industry services, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, community kitchen, crops, disclosure agreement, farm diversification, farm incubator, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm traffic, farmer training, farmers' markets, food distribution, food policy council, food processing, grocery stores, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pesticide and pest management, pilot project, pollinators, protection of farming development permit area, research and data collection, roads in agricultural land, soil, urban gardens/orchard, waste to energy, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2014

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Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy Excerpt Document location Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Maintain the integrity of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and its existing boundaries. E3.1;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

 Protect and support the continued designation and use of agricultural land for agricultural purposes regardless of soil types and capabilities. Encourage locating non-soil based agricultural structures on less productive soils, where feasible, in order to fully utilize prime soil resources.
 		 E3.3; *
development on agricultural land;   Encourage the continued use of farmland located outside of the ALR for agriculture purposes, subject to the development of an approved secondary plan. E3.4;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Avoid the fragmentation of ALR lands. Limit the subdivision of land within the ALR to greater than 4 ha (10 ac). Limit the subdivision of designated agriculture land outside the ALR to greater than 2 ha (5 ac). Encourage the amalgamation of lots in agricultural areas.
  		 E3.5; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

agricultural impact assessment;

 Require 2 ha of land, within Surrey, of equivalent or better soil capacity, to be included into the ALR for each 1 ha of land excluded from the ALR with the submission of an Agricultural Impact Assessment detailing how this conversion provides a net benefit to agriculture in Surrey. E3.6; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Ensure that the potential fragmentation of agricultural lands by linear development such as new road construction, hydro corridors or pipeline or road upgrades, does not negatively impact the viability of farm operations or access to farm parcels.   E3.7; *
land access;

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

 Maximize the productive utilization of agricultural land through such means as:
 Leasing City-owned ALR land to farmers
 Amending by-laws, policies and other regulations, as appropriate, to support agricultural production and innovation.
 		 E3.8; *
 

research and data collection;

 Support Surrey-based research and development of innovative production technologies and practices, such as ‘vertical farming’, roof-top farming and advanced irrigation and fertilization systems.
 		 E3.9;  

economic development;

food production;

farm diversification;

crops;

 Encourage the diversification of agricultural operations and the production of new crops and commodities, particularly high-value crops and those serving new markets with growth potential.
 		 E3.10;  
waste management; waste to energy; Encourage innovation in the management and recycling of agriculture and food waste, including waste-to-energy projects in the agri-food sector such as anaerobic digestions and other means of converting waste into a resource. E3.12; *
land access;

farm incubator;

new entrants to farming;

  Support programs that help new farmers overcome financial and other barriers to accessing land (includes but is not limited to incubator farms). E3.13; *
education;

community food system education;

farmer training;

 Work with local secondary and postsecondary institutions to support training and education programs in agriculture and food systems.
 		 E3.14;  
education;

research and data collection;

farmer training;

 Work with post-secondary institutions to facilitate agricultural research partnerships and technology transfer to local farmers.
 		 E3.15; *
education; local food culture; Support public awareness programs and events to highlight the importance of agriculture to Surrey’s economy. Showcase local producers and increase public awareness of farming practices.  E3.16; *
 

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

 Ensure Surrey has a safe and convenient transportation network that supports agriculture, including access between farms and markets, farm vehicle travel routes and direct access between fields and farm operations.
 		 E3.17; *

water management; 

food processing, storage and distribution;

food production;

irrigation and drainage;

crops;

food processing;

livestock;

 Support land owners and senior levels of government to improve access to an adequate and safe water supply for agricultural operations such as livestock watering, crop irrigation, produce washing and food processing uses.
 		 E3.18; *
economic development; agricultural industry services; Support the development of ancillary agricultural services necessary for the viability of agricultural operations, in appropriate locations.
 		 E3.20;  

food processing, storage and distribution;

 

food processing;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with senior levels of government, commodity groups and industry associations to maintain and grow the food packaging and processing industries in Surrey. E3.21;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; nuisance complaints; Protect farming and agri-food operations from adjacent urban impacts such as traffic, flooding, nuisance complaints, trespassing and noxious substances.
 		 E3.22;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Protect and enhance the interface between urban areas and the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) by using fencing, landscaping buffers and building separations between urban and agricultural lands, in accordance with DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP.
 		 E3.23; *

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Support density increases in areas adjacent to the ALR, as part of a comprehensively planned neighbourhood, where the required agricultural buffers are widened proportionally to the increase in density (see DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP), where cluster housing is used and where natural features such as watercourses, steep slopes, tree preservation, valuable ecosystems and sensitive soils are accommodated.

 E3.24; *

food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 

 Support the growth and development of farm markets and stands selling local products directly to consumers.
 		 E3.25;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Carefully plan public areas and recreational trails in areas adjacent to farmland. Provide sufficient separation and physical barriers such as fencing, plantings and topographic features, to reduce conflicts between recreational uses and farming.
 		 E3.26; *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; disclosure agreement; Use Agricultural Disclosure Agreements, at various stages of development, adjacent to agricultural areas to increase awareness of owners about the presence and implications of living near agricultural activity. E3.27; *
education;

local food culture;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising

 Raise public awareness and promote and celebrate local agriculture in Surrey through initiatives such as farm tours, media materials, community events, and by encouraging partnerships with producer associations and grocery stores to promote local farm products.
 		 E3.28; *

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

 Explore agri-tourism opportunities for producers to diversify their farm operations, create an identifiable brand, and sell more products and services directly to consumers. E3.29; *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Encourage sound environmental agricultural and farm practices by working with farmers to participate in the Provincial Environmental Farm Plan program in order to promote clean and healthy air, water and soils.
 		 E3.30;  
waste management;   Encourage the management and recycling of manure and agricultural wastes in a sustainable manner. E3.31;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; pollinators; Support programs and opportunities that help support pollinators and their valuable role in the continued viability of farming operations.
 		 E3.32;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage Best Management Practices for riparian areas and streams in agricultural areas in order to support fish populations in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and the Provincial Water Act, as amended. E3.33;  
waste management;

pilot project;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

waste to energy;

 Explore opportunities related to recovering heat, generating clean energy and other resources and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by recycling food wastes and other organic materials through pilot projects and partnerships.  E3.34;  

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

community kitchen;

 Improve access to healthy and affordable food, particularly in lower-income neighbourhoods,through the planning and implementation of community gardens,farmer’s markets, urban agriculture projects,community kitchens, neighbourhood grocery stores and food assistance programs, as appropriate.
 		 F5.1; *
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food policy council;

 Create a Food Policy Council and Surrey Food Charter to help develop formalized structures for tackling food security issues. Work in conjunction with the Agricultural and Food Security Advisory Committee. F5.2; *

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing, storage and distribution;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Encourage and support the development of local on-farm markets and urban farmer’s markets for local, direct food distribution in appropriate locations.
 		 F5.3; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Examine means of how to integrate locally supported agriculture (e.g. community gardens, community orchards, urban agriculture and small farms) into existing neighbourhoods and new areas of urban development.
 		 F5.4;  

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

urban gardens/orchard;

pesticide and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with local neighbourhood associations, school districts and non-profit groups to encourage, organize, develop and manage community gardens, rooftop farming, fruit trees and other edible landscapes on public and private lands, in suitable urban locations while also using appropriate, integrated pest management practices.  F5.6; *
food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

food distribution;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

 Encourage mixed-use neighbourhood design and redevelopment to include small and mid-size grocery stores (e.g. 300—1,850 sq. m), seasonal farmer’s markets and open space for community gardens.
 		 F5.7; *

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

food access, sales and procurement;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support the efforts and programs of Fraser Health and other non -governmental organizations that promote access to healthy nutritious foods.
 		 F5.8;  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

research and data collection;;

 Assist non-profit agencies and public/private non-profit partnerships engaging in anti-hunger, nutrition and agriculture activities by sharing data for planning and by implementing and evaluating programs.
 		 F5.9;  
food access, sales and procurement;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with non-profit organizations such as food banks, food agencies, food gleaners, and food hamper supporters to ensure healthy food options are available to all residents of Surrey regardless of location or income level. F.10;  

 

Bowen Island Municipality Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 282, 2010 Schedule A – OCP Text

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, deposit of fill and dumping, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmers' markets, farmland trust, home occupation/home based businesses, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, residential development, roads in agricultural land, soil, transfer of development potential, water restrictions and conservation, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2014

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Exceprt Document Location Language Rating

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food production;

 climate change and greenhouse gases; The Municipality will work with other agencies, stakeholders and the community to achieve emissions reductions targets and energy conservation goals. Specifically, the Municipality will: …support local food production as a factor in reducing food  transportation costs an greenhouse gas emissions... 31  
food production; ALR; Productive and domestic agricultural use is encouraged in areas  with agricultural capability; including the ALR as shown on  Schedules C and C – 1. Domestic agriculture is acceptable on any property. 209  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

Where land is in the ALR, a minimum parcel size will only apply  when that land is: • excluded from the ALR;

• approved for subdivision within the ALR pursuant to the  Agricultural Land Commission regulations or orders of the  Commission; and

• exempted by the Agricultural Land Commission regulations  or orders of the Commission.

 211 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR exclusion; Any proposal for subdivision of agriculture designated lands outside the ALR will maintain arable units of land.  212 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

transfer of development potential;

leasing of land for agriculture;

farmland trust;

The protection and use of land for agriculture is encouraged through:

• donation of agricultural lands to the Islands Trust Fund or  conservancy groups that would support agriculture;

• adoption of the Agricultural Land Commission Community  Planning Guidelines;

• formation of a non-profit society that acquires agricultural  lands;

• establishment of agriculture zoning regulations on lands suitable for productive agriculture;

• re-allocating density from agricultural lands to other non  agricultural lands;

• owners of agricultural lands actively farming, or leasing  /loaning their lands to persons that would undertake active  farming; and

• acquisition of lands for the community.

 213 *

development nad productive use of agricultural land;

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/gate sales;

home occupation/home based businesses;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

Agriculture will be supported on Bowen Island by:

• creating an Advisory Committee that reports to Council on agricultural related matters;

• encouraging a public market for sale of local food products;

• supporting the development of farmers’ outlets for the sale of  Bowen Island produced agricultural products;

• permitting roadside stands for farm gate sales of agricultural products;

• encouraging neighbourhoods and other groups to promote  and support local food production;

• encouraging community initiatives to promote local food production, food safety and sales;

• permitting Bed and Breakfast in agricultural areas and guest houses which feature a farm vacation and retreat centres that provide opportunities for guests to contribute to agricultural activity when permitted in accordance with tourist commercial land use management policies; and

• encouraging home based businesses that produce value added products from locally produced agricultural products. 

 214 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

pesticide and pest management;

 Organic farming or regenerative methods are encouraged through development of low impact farming. Operators of farms will be encouraged to avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides. If used, pesticides and herbicides will be applied in a manner that minimizes damage to adjoining and drainage areas. 215  
water managmenent;

water restrictions and conservation;

irrigation and drainage;

 Collection of rainwater for irrigation purposes is encouraged.  217  
development nad productive use of agricultural land

deposit of fill and dumping;

soil;

 Removal or deposit of soil from a parcel may be subject to  regulation by bylaw. 218  
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

soil;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Production methods that maintain soil quality and minimize impacts on adjacent lands and the environment are encouraged. 219  
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

residential development;

 The use of fencing, hedges, and other buffers and the use of increased building setbacks on adjacent residential properties will be considered to allow for adequate separation between residential and agricultural land uses. 220  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

roads in agricultural land;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 New roads should not fragment agricultural lands or areas of environmental sensitivity such as wetlands and wildlife migration corridors. 271  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

food production;

 

new entrants to farming;

 Existing farms and orchards should be protected, and new farms encouraged, especially to propagate a variety of heritage fruit trees, as a means to enhance rural and historic aspects of the island. 398  

 

 

 

Electoral Area D Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1135

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Nutrition and Public Health, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, community kitchen, composting, edible landscaping, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmland trust, food distribution, food processing, food storage, greenhouses, home occupation/home based businesses, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, pesticide and pest management, protection of farming development permit area, residential development, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2016

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Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

Language Rating
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

BC environmental farm plan;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

As initial steps toward completing a comprehensive greenhouse gas
reduction strategy and ultimately reducing emissions, the following
elements are incorporated into this OCP...•Support for local agriculture...•.
Encourage the adoption  of Environmental  Farm plans & Whole Farm plans

 3.2.10;  
urban agriculture;  

Support the emergence of rural and planned communities with a
vibrant mix of uses combined with distributed renewable
power generation, agriculture, and green infrastructure.

 4.0.4;  

food processing, storage and distribution;

food access, sales and procurement;

urban agriculture;

food storage;

urban gardens/orchard;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

greenhouses;

community kitchen;

Support measures to ensure that all new development is designed 
with the ability to grow and store food,  including  the provision of 
community gardens, greenhouses or green roofs, and community kitchens. 

 4.0.8; *
food access, sales and procurement

amenity densityzoning/contributions; 

community kitchen;

residential development;

Support measures to ensure that shared facilities are provided in new 
multi family developments, such as meeting  and work space, and 
community kitchens/ovens in order to support food preservation.

 4.0.9; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing;

Support measures that are consistent with Agricultural Land Commission 
Regulations, to ensure that all local agricultural zoning bylaws allow for local 
processing of food to reduce transportation requirements. 

 4.0.10; *
education; community food system education;

Support initiatives to build capacity for local food production and will consider
working with member municipalities, non-profits, and the School Districts to 
provide food preservation education using publicly accessible facilities. 

 4.0.11; *
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard; 

edible landscaping; 

 Support the planting of public streets with species that can provide nutrition 
or medicinal health benefits that are not necessarily attractive to bears. 		 4.0.12; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing; 

food storage;

 Encourage innovation with regard to land use and policies that support growing, 
processing, preserving, and storing food. 		 4.0.13; *
    Lands designated for agricultural use are indicated on Map 1. These lands shall be managed to retain their agricultural potential.    5.5.6; *
development and productive use of agricultural land; farmland trust;  The use of tools and approaches such as Agricultural Land or Farmland Trusts, and the Community Farms Program (administered by Farm Folk/City Folk in collaboration with The Land Conservancy of BC) is supported. 5.5.7;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR;

residential development;

 Consider regulating the siting and size of residential uses in the ALR, through the implementing bylaw. 5.5.9;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Subdivision and exclusion of land for non‐farm purposes from the Agricultural Land Reserve is discouraged. 5.5.10;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Paved and unpaved helipads and airstrips are discouraged on agricultural lands 5.5.12  
land access; leasing of land for agriculture;

The owners of agricultural lands are encouraged to facilitate the use of the land for agriculture by actively farming, leasing or loaning their lands to persons that would undertake active farming

 5.5.13  

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales;

agri-tourism;

home occupation/home based business;

 The Board encourages economic diversification initiatives accessory to and compatible with farming that add value to locally produced farm products by:

 Supporting the development of farm outlets for the sale of local agricultural products;

 Permitting roadside stands for farm gate sales of agricultural products;

 Permitting bed and breakfasts in agricultural areas and guest houses/small scale agritourism operations that feature farm vacations and farming related activities;and,

 Supporting home occupations that produce value added products from locally produced agricultural products.

 5.5.14 *
economic development;

zoning;

residential development;

agri-tourism;

 Agritourism accommodation may be permitted by way of rezoning, and only to a maximum of 10 sleeping units per farm operation. 5.5.15; *
wildlife/pest/environmental management; wildlife and ecosystem management;

Farmers are encouraged to identify ecologically significant areas such as wetlands, abandoned watercourses and other sensitive areas, and avoid practices that would cause negative impacts to those areas

5.5.18

  
wildlife/pest/environmental management;

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Farmers are encouraged to prepare Environmental Farm Plans to assess how they may operate in a manner that sustains farming as well as protects wildlife, protects against soil erosion and degradation, maintains water quality, and supports natural ecosystems.

 5.5.19  
wildlife/pest/environmental management;

pesticide and pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

The development of farms that follow organic and natural farming practices that do not rely on pesticides is supported.

 5.5.20  

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

waste management;

education;

nutrition and public health;

urban agriculture;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

food distribution;

edible landscaping;

composting;

community kitchen;

farmland trust;

livestock;

 Food security should be supported through community gardens and agricultural land trusts, public edible landscaping, responsible composting and animal rearing, preservation and appropriate use of the Agriculture Land Reserve, support of local food growers and community kitchens, food distribution and cooking programs and food and nutrition education. 5.5.21; *
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning protection of farming development permit area; See document for guidelines for Protection of Farming Development Permit Area Guidelines. 7.7  
Subscribe to leasing of land for agriculture