District of Squamish Food Charter

Topic(s): Economic Development, Education, First Nations and Indigenous Food Systems, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Waste Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): climate change and greenhouse gases, food recovery/gleaning/donation, GE/GMO, local food culture, local procurement, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, research and data collection, seeds, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Food Charter | Year: 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt
economic development;   Farmers are better connected to consumers through farm markets, Community Supported Agriculture, and school/work meal and information programs.
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Farmers’ roles as environmental stewards are protected and financially supported
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Agricultural resources including water, land, and the knowledge of farmers are protected.
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Regulations strengthen the capacity of local farmers to produce and reach their markets.
food production;

GE/GMO;

seeds;

 Existing agricultural production and land is protected from genetically modified seed.
economic development; local food culture; A “buy local” campaign that promotes local food production and consumption has expanded.

education;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

local food culture;

seeds;

 Traditional teachings about food preservation, seed saving, eating seasonally, and eating locally will be encouraged and supported.
food sales, access, and procurement; local procurement; Institutional buyers such as hospitals and universities have the flexibility and incentive to buy more local products.
 

research and data collection;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Ongoing research ensures long-term food security in the face of a changing climate.

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/ advocacy/liaising; First Nations and the district work together to create collaborative
opportunities that provide learning and positive outcomes toward food security in the region
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Squamish is committed to strengthening socially just and ecologically resilient food systems around the world.
waste management; food recovery/gleaning/donation; ‘Waste’ Food is re-distributed (including farmers, grocers, restaurants, farmers markets, homes, gardens) to feed those in need.
  local food culture; Families, congregations and communities of interest have opportunities to gather, share food and celebrate their cultures.
food sales, access, and procurement;   Food programs progression is supported from survival needs to programs of self sufficiency for all community members. 

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

City of Chilliwack Agricultural Area Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, community food system education, emergency preparedness, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm worker accommodation, farmers' markets, food processing, irrigation and drainage, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, recreational use of agricultural land, research and data collection, residential development, urban containment/growth boundary, water restrictions and conservation, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2012

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
economic development; research and data collection; The City of Chilliwack supports the efforts of the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission and the University of the Fraser Valley to create a centre for excellence and innovation in agriculture at the Chilliwack campus 4.5.1.1
education; edconomic development and agri-tourism; research and data collection; The City of Chilliwack supports the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission promoting the progressive components of the agricultural industry in Chilliwack through various ways such as:
• Emphasizing technical agricultural careers in area education institutions
• Focusing on the importance of research and technology
• Promoting the science and technology aspects of the industry.		 4.5.2.1
water management; water restrictions and conservation; The City of Chilliwack encourages water conservation for all citizens including agricultural users. 4.6.1.1
water management; water restrictions and conservation;  The City of Chilliwack, when addressing possible water shortages or other water concerns for agriculture, consults with industry stakeholders and looks at economically sustainable solutions to long term needs. 4.6.1.3
water management; research and data collection; The City of Chilliwack encourages research efforts involving the agricultural industry and other stakeholders to assess the impact of using lower quality water on local farm operations. 4.6.1.4
development and productive use of agricultural land;   The City of Chilliwack supports the protection and enhancement of designated agricultural land for agricultural purposes. 4.6.2.1
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary; The City of Chilliwack supports the following:
• A focus on densification of existing urban areas that supports building up, not out, to prevent urban sprawl, and redevelopment of central downtown areas through multi-family housing
• Ongoing work with the Agricultural Land Commission to establish a rational Urban Containment Boundary
• Farmer best management practices, good husbandry of animals and good stewardship of land		 4.6.2.2
development and productive use of agricultural land;   The City of Chilliwack encourages existing non-permitted uses on land in the Agricultural Land Reserve be transitioned back into acceptable agricultural uses. 4.6.3.1
development and productive use of agricultural land; farm worker accommodation; The City of Chilliwack supports non-permanent housing in cases of demonstrated need for seasonal worker housing on agricultural land.  4.6.3.2
development and productive use of agricultural land; residential development; The City of Chilliwack supports the BC Ministry of Agriculture and the Agricultural Land Commission with efforts being made to minimize the impact of residences and other buildings on agricultural land. 4.6.4.1

economic development;

food processing, storage and distribution;

 food processing; The City of Chilliwack through the Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation and the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission supports attracting food processors to encourage economic development in the City. 4.6.5.1
food production;

zoning;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

  The City of Chilliwack supports agricultural production from all parcels zoned for agriculture including parcels of 10 acres or less. 4.6.6.1
food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

farmers' markets;

 The City of Chilliwack supports the efforts of local farmers in making their products available for local purchase from the farm gate, through farmers’ markets, or in cooperation with other local retailers. 4.6.6.2
food sales, access and procurement; farmers' markets; The City of Chilliwack encourages the establishment of appropriate farmers’ markets in Chilliwack. 4.6.6.3
economic development; agri-tourism; The City of Chilliwack supports the efforts of local farmers to increase agri-tourism activities that are consistent with those approved by the Agricultural Land Commission. 4.6.6.4
education;  new entrants to farming; The City of Chilliwack supports all efforts to encourage young people to enter farming, through the work of the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission, the University of the Fraser Valley, Chilliwack School District 33, and the farm community. 4.6.7.1
first nations and indigenous food systems;   The City of Chilliwack supports working collaboratively with First Nations to share agricultural best practices and to encourage agricultural production on First Nations’ land located in the Chilliwack area. 4.6.8.1
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; nuisance complaints; The City of Chilliwack supports notifying citizens living adjacent to, or in close proximity to, active farm operations about normal farm practices that are protected from bylaw enforcement or private nuisance suits by the Farm Practices Protection Act. 3. The City of Chilliwack encourages area realtors to ensure purchasers of properties adjacent to, or in close proximity to, active farm operations are aware of normal farm practices protected from bylaw enforcement or private nuisance suits by the Farm Practices Protection Act. 4.7.2.2
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; nuisance complaints; The City of Chilliwack encourages area realtors to ensure purchasers of properties adjacent to, or in close proximity to, active farm operations are aware of normal farm practices protected from bylaw enforcement or private nuisance suits by the Farm Practices Protection Act.  4.7.2.3
education;

community food system education;

local food culture;

 The City of Chilliwack supports the annual tour of agriculture in Chilliwack organized by the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission and designed for Councillors, press members, students and educators, and others to promote the activities of area farms and other efforts of the Commission to improve agricultural awareness and understanding. 4.7.2.5
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; nuisance complaints; The City of Chilliwack encourages the agricultural industry, with leadership from the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission, to prepare and promote a “good neighbour” policy to deal with issues of conflict in the spirit of being good neighbours....( The guidelines may:Farmers will be encouraged to,
• Get to know their neighbours and share information about their farm practices
• Support neighbourhood practices that enhance quality of life
• Protect the area environment with sensitive farm practices
• Reduce dust and odour where reasonable to do so
• Consider visual screening or hedging where practical
• Pull over to allow other traffic to pass when travelling city roads with large farm equipment and tractors
• Make efforts when moving farm equipment to take routes that avoid winding, or busy, roads
• Make efforts to limit mud and other debris on city roadways
• Maintain clean and tidy farm sites. Neighbours will be encouraged to,
• Understand and appreciate “normal farm practices” and other best practices on farms
• Support farmers’ need to operate their farms in a sustainable manner
• Appreciate the contributions of area farms to local food supplies and food security
• Eliminate unauthorized trespass on area farms
• Report all incidences of dumping of yard waste on area farms
• Report observed incidences of vandalism and theft from farms and farm outlets
• Share the roads with farm equipment and other vehicles accessing area farms.)		 4.7.3.1
economic development;   The City of Chilliwack supports the agricultural industry as an important economic contributor to the Chilliwack economy. 4.7.4.1
urban - agriculture conflict and edge planning;   The City of Chilliwack, in situations where development may impact farm operations or farming operations may affect other residents in any way, supports appropriate edge planning as a way to protect both farmers and other citizens. 4.7.6.1
education; recreational use of agricultural land; The City of Chilliwack supports the development of walking and cycling trails adjacent to, or part of, agricultural land where farmers’ affected have been consulted and agree to the use and where the walking and cycling trails may contribute to agricultural awareness and understanding. 4.7.6.2
wildlife, environmental and pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; The City of Chilliwack supports the guidelines for building setbacks from watercourses prepared by the BC Ministry of Agriculture. 4.8.1.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; The City of Chilliwack works closely with the farm community to monitor open watercourse drainage and maintenance in order to address farmer requirements. 4.8.2.1

water management;

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

irrigation and drainage;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 The City of Chilliwack supports existing open watercourse drainage and maintenance activities that recognize fish salvaging and protection of fish habitat. 4.8.2.2
wildlife, environmental and pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; The City of Chilliwack supports progressive farmers who may wish to establish an appropriate buffer zone along watercourses to reduce the amount of run-off into drainage ditches.  4.8.2.3
  emergency preparedness; 2. The City of Chilliwack supports emergency planning activities at the City and Provincial levels to address flooding issues and concerns and to arrange for the evacuation of livestock if required. 4.8.3.2
education; wildlife and ecosystem management;  The City of Chilliwack supports the efforts of the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission and the University of the Fraser Valley to provide seminars on nutrient management and planning for area farmers. 4.8.4.3

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

 

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

livestock;

 The City of Chilliwack supports all livestock farmers in Chilliwack having a nutrient management plan in place to identify farm wastes and how they are disposed. This plan may be developed as part of the Environmental Farm Plan Program offered through the BC Agriculture Council and funded through the Growing Forward agreement between the province and Agriculture and
Agri-Food Canada.		 4.8.4.4
wildlife, environmental and pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; The City of Chilliwack supports all efforts of the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission to promote innovative ways to mitigate damage to wildlife habitat from farming practices.  4.8.6.2
wildlife, environmental and pest management; BC environmental farm plan; The City of Chilliwack supports the Environmental Farm Plan Program and encourages all area farmers to participate in the program. 4.8.7.1

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 Terrace Official Community Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, First Nations and Indigenous Food Systems, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management

Sub-topic(s): ALR, edible landscaping, food recovery/gleaning/donation, hunting/fishing/gathering, local food culture, local procurement, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, research and data collection, residential development, tax mechanisms, urban farm, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Kitimat-Stikine | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2011

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

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

land access;

research and data collection;

hunting/ fishing /gathering;

 Maintain access to natural and traditional food on lands where sources of these foods have been identified, consider undertaking an inventory of city lands to better identify these resources. pg 11  
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; Maintain arable lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). pg 11  
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Support the existing community garden areas and the development of new community gardens in all areas of the community where suitable.  pg 12 *

food production;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

 ALR;  Explore options to maintain and expand high quality agricultural land for food production and farming pg 11  
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Explore unique opportunities to develop community gardens in public spaces, right-of ways and utility corridors.  pg 12  
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Expand areas in Terrace where urban agricultural activities are permitted through a review of current bylaws and regulations. pg 12 *
urban agriculture; edible landscaping; Consider edible landscaping for City property. pg 12  
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

residential development;

 Provide support for residential food production efforts, including greenhouse operations, rooftop gardens and backyard gardens. pg 12  
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

residential development;

 Consider establishing food production or communal garden space requirements for all new medium and high density residential developments. pg 12  
economic development; tax mechanisms; Promote farming as a viable pursuit locally through efforts such as incentive programs or tax breaks. pg 12  
urban agriculture; urban farm; Encourage small scale commercial food production where zoning permits.  pg 12  
waste management; food recovery/gleaning/donation; Support food recovery programs to ensure fresh local products are available to all. pg 12  
food sales, access and procurement; local procurement; Encourage local business, agencies and institutions to adopt local food buying policies.  pg 12  
education; community food system education; Promote awareness offood security issues and support educational opportunities to residents on gardening, composting, food processing, storage and preparation. pg 12 *

education;

community food system education;

 Support and coordinate the development of food-related educational and cultural events. pg 12  

education;

first nations and indigenous food systems;

hunting/ fishing /gathering;

 Work corroboratively to promote education on traditional local and wild foods and opportunities for fishing, hunting and harvesting. pg 12 *

food sales, access and procurement;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising;  Encourage partnerships between community groups, other levels of government and health authorities to support access to healthy food for all pg 12  
food sales, access and procurement; local procurement; Aim to include 25% of locally grown food (as available in season) at municipal events.  pg 12 *
economic development local food culture; Support innovative farming and local marketing techniques to help improve the economic viability of food production in the community pg 12  

Corporation of Delta Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3950, Schedule A

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

Sub-topic(s): agricultural impact assessment, agricultural industry services, ALR, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, commercial development, farm diversification, greenhouses, protection of farming development permit area, recreational use of agricultural land, research and data collection, soil, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

soil;

 Encourage land use and development practices that minimize soil erosion or loss of highly productive organic soils 2.4.30  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

 Recognize farming as the primary use of agricultural land. 2.5.1  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Maintain the parcel size of Delta’s agricultural land and encourage consolidation of agricultural parcels to increase parcel size, rather than fragmentation of agricultural lands. 2.5.2 *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

agricultural impact assessment;

ALR;

 Use Agriculture Impact Assessments to quantify the impacts of a proposed development, rezoning subdivision or non-farm use on the ALR, farmed lands or lands adjacent to farmed lands. Require mitigation for possible impacts. 2.5.4 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

recreational use of agricultural land;

commercial development;

institutional development;

ALR;

 Consider alternate nonagricultural sites when recreational, institutional, industrial, commercial uses or utility facilities are proposed for agricultural areas. 2.5.5  

food production;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

greenhouses;

ALR;;

 Continue to work with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission and other appropriate stakeholders and organizations to determine the maximum threshold for greenhouses and other non-soil dependent farming operations that preserves a critical mass of land for soil based agriculture. 2.5.6 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

greenhouses;

ALR;

 Encourage non-soil dependent farm operations to locate in areas of poorer soils and minimize the impacts of these operations (e.g. air and light pollution). 2.5.7  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; protection of farming development permit area; Consider urban-rural edge planning initiatives, such as Development Permit Guidelines for the urban side. 2.5.10  
economic development; farm diversification; Support economic diversification initiatives accessory to and compatible with farming that add value to locally produced farm products. 2.5.11  
economic development; agricultural industry services; Encourage businesses that support and service farming to locate in Delta. 2.5.14  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage initiatives, including best management practices, that support both farming and wildlife, protect against soil erosion and degradation, and maintain water quality and hydrological functions on agricultural land.  2.5.19  
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

greenhouses;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and data collection;

 Support and if appropriate participate in studies to determine the impacts of greenhouses and other agricultural and non-agricultural development on the Pacific Flyway, and study the impacts of waterfowl on agricultural lands 2.5.20 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Recognize and protect environmentally significant areas of farmland, including hedgerows, stands of trees, old fields, watercourses and other sensitive areas. 2.5.21  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Continue to support programs that mitigate and compensate for crop damage from migratory birds and on farm stewardship activities such as setasides, and hedgerows. 2.5.22 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

recreational use of agricultural land;

 Minimize the negative impacts on farming and wildlife habitat when new agri-tourism, transportation and utility corridors, regional recreational opportunities and other economic initiatives are being developed. 2.5.23  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; BC environmental farm plan; Encourage farmers to prepare Best Management Practice Plans and Environmental Farm Plans.
 		 2.5.24  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage other levels of government and non-government agencies to implement habitat initiatives on agricultural land in cooperation with farmers. 2.5.25  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; recreational use of agricultural land; Work with the GVRD, user groups, and stakeholders to educate recreational users of private property rights, the implications of trespassing on farmland, nuisance activities for farming, and security concerns of the farm community. 2.5.26  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; recreational use of agricultural land; Support planning initiatives that minimize conflicts between recreational and farm users. 2.5.27  

 

City of Pitt Meadows Agricultural Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): 'benefit to agriculture' language, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR subdivision, disclosure agreement, farm home plate, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, research and data collection, residential development, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2000

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee;
partnerships/advocacy/liaising;		 Establish a Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee of Council. Suggested membership on the Committee includes a member of Council as liaison, two representatives nominated from the Pitt Meadows Farmers Institute, two representatives from the farming community at large, a representative representing agri-tourism interests, one member representing the Chamber of Copmmerce, one member representing ecological interests, one member representing the Katzie First Nation as a non-voting member.     
 		 4.1;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;


education;

 disclosure agreement;
ALR;
residential development;		 Request the Real Estate Board to require realtors be adequately trained about the ALR and the Farm Practices Protection Act in order to properly inform potential purchasers of ALR land about living in an agricultural area and an appropriate disclosure statement be signed. The APSC also recommends Council confirm with the Real Estate Board their commitment to maintain all ALR land in the Reserve and that tools to assist realtors with education, such as the BCMAF publication “Countryside and You”, be made available.
 		 4.3;
economic development; agri-tourism;
agricultural advisory committee;
partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 		 Support and encourage agri-tourism in Pitt Meadows and liaise with the Canadian Agri-Tourism Network and the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee to develop a strategy for agri-tourism options consistent with already existing agricultural enterprises. 
 		 4.6;
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR subdivision;
ALR;
' benefit to agriculture' language;		 Support subdivision of agricultural parcels only where the number of parcels does not increase, there are no parcels created that are less than 20 acres,  and there is a net benefit to agriculture, as determined by the local Approving Officer in consultation with the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee, with the exception of home site severance for retiring farmers consistent with existing Agricultural  Land Commission policy. Whenever possible, actively look for ways to consolidate smaller parcels to larger ones. 4.8;
development and productive use of agricultural land; farm home plate;
residential development;		 Contain all future residential and farm-help dwellings within a strategically located building “envelope” in a manner that optimizes agricultural production in accordance with a policy to be developed by the District of Pitt Meadows in consultation with the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee, the ALC and the BCMAF. 4.9;

development and productive use of agricultural land;


policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 ALR;
residential development;
partnerships/advocacy/liaising;		 To maximize the agricultural land available for future agricultural uses, request the Province to review policies on non-resident ownership currently in place in other jurisdictions and consider implementing policies to encourage agricultural uses of all agricultural lands and reduce potential speculation on value of farmland. 4.11;
economic development; agricultural industry services; Investigate a suitable site for an Agricultural Industrial Park, to house value-added agricultural enterprise activities that do not meet the criteria as developed for value-added agricultural enterprise activities on a farm site....( The APSC recommends the site be selected in consultation with the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee, Engineering and Development Services, the general public and other relevant groups. 4.13;
food processing, storage and distribution; zoning;
 		 Allow storage of farm inputs on a bona fide farm without further regulation, provided the farm input is not environmentally hazardous, is necessary for the farm operation, will be used in one growing year, and is safely stored at least 15 metres from natural watercourses, ditches or streams and is in accordance with established provincial legislation, regulation, and best practices guidelines.  4.17;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management;
research and data collection;		 Have the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee, in consultation with BCMAF, the Pitt Meadows Farmers Institute and others, encourage further research into, review of, and adoption of, alternative bird management practices that are less intrusive than bird cannons.  4.18;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management;
research and data collection;
agricultural advisory committee;
partnerships/advocacy/liaising;		 Have the Standing Agricultural Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the Pitt Meadows Farmers Institute and the BCMAF, continually monitor, review and encourage the use of new technologies and practices which may limit the effects of wildlife on the agriculture industry. 4.21;
development and productive use of agricultural land; recreational use of agricultural land;
ALR;		 Do not allow any more golf courses or driving ranges on any ALR land in Pitt Meadows. 4.24;

 

City of Campbell River Agriculture Now

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Food Self Reliance, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): aquaculture, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, composting, farm diversification, farm incubator, farmer training, farmers' markets, food distribution, greenhouses, irrigation and drainage, local food culture, new entrants to farming, pesticide and pest management, pilot project, research and data collection, urban gardens/orchard, waste to energy

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

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food self reliance;   Targeting 10% food self-sufficiency by 2031. 3.5;
education;

farm incubator;

farmer training;


pilot project;

 Examine feasibility of facilitating establishment of an incubator or pilot farm site to generate interest in farming and capacity building. See document for detailed actions. 4.2.2.2;
 

greenhouses;


waste to energy;

 Consider or review opportunities for greenhouse production. See document for details. 4.2.2.3;
development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban containment/growth boundary;


roads in agricultural land;

  Support the development of agricultural nodes
  •  Designate strategically located lands outside of the Urban Containment Boundary as “Agriculture” on the land use map of the OCP.
  •  Consider opportunities to develop specific road and servicing standards and requirements for Agriculture Development Areas or incubation areas and/ or lands designated as “agriculture” on the land use map in the OCP.
 4.2.2.5;
education;

farm incubator;

farmer training;

 Support establishment of an incubator agricultural area. See document for details. 4.2.2.6;
food sales, access and procurement; farmers' markets; Encourage increased participation of agricultural product vendors at the Farmers’ Market and direct sales points for local foods. See document for details. 4.2.3.2;
food sales, access and procurement; local food culture; Support and promote community celebrations of agriculture and food. See document for details. 4.2.3.6;
economic development; new entrants to farming Recruit farmers from other areas based on local opportunities and strengths. See document for details. 4.2.3.7;

economic development;

food production;

farm diversification;


aquaculture;

 Support product diversification.
  •  Use communication and marketing strategies around food and agriculture in Campbell River to promote a unique identity for specialized crops as appropriate. 
  •  Collaborate with agencies and organizations to coordinate education initiatives in relation to land base opportunities and market feasibility of non-traditional crops such as mushrooms, salal, wild game, hops, bison etc. that may be suitable for ALR lands.
  •  Support where appropriate land-based aquaculture, production of herbaceous fish. 
 4.2.3.8;

economic development;


education;

   Promote Campbell River Agriculture as a media
focus and training and education...		 4.2.3.9;
water management; irrigation and drainage; Assess opportunities and constraints to provision of irrigation water from municipal system. See document for details. 4.2.4.9;

economic development;

education;

composting;

research and data collection;


waste to energy;

 Support the development of cost effective inputs to increase the competitiveness of local agricultural producers. See document for details. 4.2.4.10;

food sales, access and procurement;


food processing, storage and distribution;

farmers' markets;


food distribution;

 Support development of local food distribution facilities to increase the sale of agricultural products through the Farmers’ Market or others. See document for details. 4.2.4.11;
water management; irrigation and drainage; Assist with design of drainage systems.
  •  Identify situations where soil capability and cropping options can be significantly enhanced with drainage and where private infrastructure must be connected to City drainage systems.
  •  Ensure that capital drainage projects account for potential agricultural drainage areas where appropriate to ensure suitable long term pipe capacity.
 4.2.4.12;
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

climate change and greenhouse gases;


BC environmental farm plan;


pesticide and pest management;

 Support environmentally sustainable farm practices. See document for details. 4.2.4.13;
waste management;

waste to energy;


pilot project;


greenhouses;

 Explore the feasibility of connecting greenhouses to waste heat sources such as the co-generation plant to create a unique competitive advantage in Campbell River. See document for details. 4.2.4.14;

education;


urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Support development of urban agriculture and community gardens as “hands on” learning to increase interest in local production. See document for details. 4.2.5.1;

 

Cowichan Food Charter

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Education, First Nations and Indigenous Food Systems, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Nutrition and Public Health, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): climate change and greenhouse gases, food distribution, local food culture, local procurement, research and data collection

Region: Cowichan Valley | Document Type: Food Charter | Year: 2009

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt
nutrition and public health;   There will be no more chronic hunger, and no more malnourished children;
food sales, access and procurement;   Farmers will be better connected to consumers through farm markets, Community Supported Agriculture, and school and work lunch programs;
wildlife/environmental/pest management;   Farmers’ roles as environmental stewards will be protected and financially supported;

water management;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

   Agricultural resources including water, land, and the knowledge of farmers will be protected;
food processing, storage and distribution; food distribution; Regulations will strengthen the capacity of local farmers to produce and reach their markets;
food sales, access and procurement; local food culture; A “Buy Local” campaign that promotes local food production and consumption will be expanded;

education;

first nations and indigenous food systems;

   Traditional teachings about food preservation, seed saving, eating seasonally, and eating locally will be encouraged and supported;
food sales, access and procurement local procurement; Institutional buyers such as hospitals and universities will have the flexibility and incentive to buy more local products;
 

climate change and greenhouse gases; 

research and data collection;

 Ongoing research will ensure long-term food security in the face of a changing climate;

 

Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 434, Volume 1: Land Use and Servicing Objectives

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

Sub-topic(s): 'benefit to agriculture' language, agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, commercial development, crops, demonstration farm, farm worker accommodation, farmers' markets, food processing, food storage, GE/GMO, irrigation and drainage, livestock, research and data collection, residential development, roads in agricultural land, seeds, transfer of development potential, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Islands Trust | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
wildlife/environmental/pest management; climate change and greenhouse gases; The Local Trust Committee should support local food production as a significant factor in reducing food transportation costs and greenhouse gas emissions. A.6.2.15  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

zoning;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

 The Local Trust Committee should maintain an Agricultural Advisory Committee to:
a. provide community advice about bylaw changes, applications for rezoning or subdivision, and applications to the Agricultural Land Commission. b. help in developing and interpreting local policies about farming. c. identify other ways that the Local Trust Committee can encourage and support farming in the community.		 B.6.2.2.1  

food processing,storage and distribution;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

ALR;

 The Local Trust Committee will not make changes to local bylaws to prohibit or restrict farming in the Agricultural Land Reserve or in areas where farming is now allowed, or that are obstacles to the creation of local abattoirs, cold storage facilities, or other facilities that would improve local food security. B.6.2.2.6 *

food processing,storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

food production;

economic development;

zoning;

farmers' markets;

food processing;

food storage;

farm worker accommodation;

ALR;

residential development;

agri-tourism;

agricultural advisory committee;

research and data collection;

livestock;

 On the advice of the Agricultural Advisory Committee, the Local Trust Committee should continue to support local farming by:
a. addressing the need for additional housing on agricultural land.
b. permitting appropriate farm uses as defined by the Agricultural Land Reserve Act and Regulations.
c. recognizing the traditional uses of the property owned by the Salt Spring Island Farmer's
Institute on Rainbow Road.
d. allowing for the processing and warehousing of island farm products on the Institute's
property.
e. supporting zoning that would allow various forms of community farming activities.
f. supporting the development of farmers' markets.
g. considering changes to the Land Use Bylaw, based on the objectives of the Area Farm Plan
and in consultation with the Agricultural Land Commission and the Ministry of Agriculture and
Lands, to permit additional dwellings for farm workers.
h. considering changes to the Land Use Bylaw to further support agri-tourism.
i. supporting all efforts to ensure a viable local livestock industry.
j. updating agricultural information, monitoring changes in the agricultural sector and helping to
identify unused or available farmland.		 B.6.2.2.7 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 'benefit to agriculture' language;

 The minimum average size of lots that can be created by subdivision in the Agriculture and Watershed-Agriculture Designation will remain the same as permitted by existing zoning. The Local Trust Committee could consider amending the minimum size of individual lots, if such a change would benefit local farming or protect agricultural land by allowing clustered development. Background Note: The minimum parcel sizes and minimum average parcel sizes outlined in the Land Use Bylaw apply only when land is:
a. excluded from the Agricultural Land Reserve, or
b. approved for subdivision by the Agricultural Land Commission. An exception to the minimum lot sizes can be made where a home site is being created for a relative as outlined in Section 946 of the Local Government Act. Such subdivisions must also be approved by the Agricultural Land Commission.		 B.6.2.2.8 *

food processing, storage and distribution;

economic development;

waste management;

zoning;

food processing;

demonstration farm;

agri-tourism;

ALR;

 The Local Trust Committee could consider changing zoning to permit the following land uses, where permitted by the Agricultural Land Reserve Act or regulations, on individual properties in the Agriculture Designation: small-scale processing and sales of island-grown forest products; farming schools; farm-based tourist accommodation; waste management facilities. Such uses should only be allowed where farming capability is minimal and the planned use would not interfere with land productivity. Preference should be given to proposals that would improve the viability of an existing farm operation. B.6.2.2.9  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

transfer of development potential;

 The Local Trust Committee should consider rezoning applications from property owners with productive agricultural land outside the Agricultural Land Reserve who wish to transfer their development potential to maintain their farm. Such Land could be considered a Development Potential Donor Area, despite the development potential transfer status of the Designation it is in. Such applications should follow the guidelines in Appendix 4.  B.6.2.2.10  
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

 The Local Trust Committee could consider rezoning applications to allow higher density in exchange for community owned farmland or land for community farm product processing or storage facilities. Such applications should follow the guidelines in Appendix 3. Such land is an
eligible community amenity, which could be exchanged for a higher density of development as outlined in Appendix 3.		 B.6.2.2.11  
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; The Local Trust Committee will support the inclusion of agricultural land within the Agricultural Land Reserve.
 		 B.6.2.2.12 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALr subdivision;  The Local Trust Committee could support applications to the Agricultural Land Commission to subdivide land within the Agricultural Land Reserve if:
a. the subdivision results in improved farming capability or production on all proposed lots in a way that would be impossible without subdivision.
b. the subdivision is to provide a house site up to 0.6 ha in size for an adult relative of the property owner, as defined by Section 946 of the Local Government Act and the parcel was held by that owner (or a blood relation) before the adoption of the Agricultural Land Commission Act on December 21,1972.
c. the subdivision is clearly in the public interest consistent with other objectives of this Plan		 B.6.2.2.13  
development and productive use of agricultural land; roads in agricultural land; The Local Trust Committee should only support the use of lands in the Agriculture or Watershed Agriculture Designations for road access to other lands if the proposed road does not interfere with farming capability.  B.6.2.2.14 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

 The Local Trust Committee could support applications to the Agricultural Land Commission for non-farm use or exclusion of land within the Agricultural Land Reserve in some situations where local farming or the greater community would benefit. Support for such applications should only be considered if the application has been referred to the Agricultural Advisory Committee and falls into one of the following categories:
a. the proposed non-farm use or exclusion would allow an active farm to diversify and broaden its income, but not decrease the farming capability of the property.
b. the proposed non-farm use or exclusion is consistent with local zoning or a land use designation or policy in this Plan, including policies B.3.3.2.10 and B.7.2.2.7.
c. in the instance of a proposed exclusion, the Local Trust Committee may consider an application that would result in inclusion of existing non-ALR farmland into the ALR.
d. the non-farm use or exclusion of property for essential community services, if the location of the service is limited by engineering constraints, or by strategic considerations such as those that determine the best location for an emergency response station, and the proponent has demonstrated that there is no suitable alternate, non-ALR property. Background Note: This policy suggests the types of applications to the Agricultural Land Commission which could be supported by the Local Trust Committee. However, the final decision regarding all such applications rests with the Commission.]		 B.6.2.2.15  
water management;

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

 When it considers rezoning applications that are not related to farming, the Local Trust Committee will ensure the availability of water for farming would not be reduced because of a zoning change. If a rezoning application would result in an increase in water use, the Local Trust Committee will ask the Agricultural Advisory Committee for advice about the potential impacts on farming. B.6.2.2.16  

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

stormwater management;

 The Local Trust Committee encourages subdivision layouts that reduce the potential for conflict with farming. When subdivisions are proposed for land that drains towards agricultural lands, the staff shall request that the Subdivision Approving Officer consider how changes to natural drainage patterns could affect agricultural activities. Such applications may be referred to the Agricultural Advisory Committee for advice and the Advisory Committee's suggestions for the protection of farming operations will be forwarded to the Subdivision Approving Officer for consideration.
 		 B.6.2.2.17  

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

zoning;

stormwater management;

buffer at agricultural edge;

 When it considers rezoning applications for land that borders or drains into agricultural land, the Local Trust Committee will ensure that zoning changes are not made in a way that would have a negative effect on farming. For example, the Committee could require that a vegetation buffer be maintained on land that is being rezoned next to farm land, if the proposed use could result in conflicts with a farming operation. The Committee should also ensure that a zoning change would not result in detrimental changes to natural drainage or pollution of water supplies. The Agricultural Advisory Committee will be asked for advice about rezoning applications on land that borders or drains into agricultural land. B.6.2.2.18 8
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

 Zoning changes should not be made to allow large new multi-family, industrial, institutional or commercial developments in the Agriculture or Watershed-Agriculture Designation. An exception could be considered for community facilities or limited industrial zoning that would provide broad
benefits to the community and are specifically mentioned in this Plan.		 B.6.2.2.19 *

food production;

GE/GMO;

seeds;

crops;

 The Local Trust Committee will support efforts to discourage the use of genetically engineered seeds or plants for locally grown products B.6.2.2.30  
water management;

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 

 When considering rezoning applications, the Local Trust Committee should consider the impacts of the proposed new use on existing wells, springs, or other water supplies. If the proposed use is expected to need more water than the uses already allowed on the property, then the Committee should ask for evidence that wells or other water supplies in the neighbourhood would not be depleted. The Committee should also consider whether water use would affect agricultural activities or deplete any springs necessary to maintain fish habitat. Should a zoning change be proposed where groundwater supplies are not adequate, the applicant could be encouraged to find other means of supplying water. Rainwater catchment or a water conservation program could be considered. C.3.3.2.2  

 

 

 

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