Setting Our Table Capital Regional District Food & Agriculture Strategy

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

Sub-topic(s): soil, research and data collection, water rate for agriculture, pollinators, wildlife and ecosystem management, irrigation and drainage, farmland trust, agri-tourism, partnerships/advocacy/liaising

Region: Capital | Document Type: Food Strategy | Year: 2016

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Establish a Regional Food and Agriculture (RFA) Task Force to develop an organizational structure that supports regional collaboration and strategic decision-making.  5.1
education;   Develop food and agricultural education, experience and expertise.  5.2 (i)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Embed food and agricultural experience
and expertise within the CRD.		 5.2 (ii)
  research and data collection;  iii) Maintain and improve regional food and
agriculture data.		 5.2 (iii)
wildlife/environmental/pest management; soil; Consider food and agriculture interests with a goal of improving the region’s soils. 5.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Where possible, support municipal efforts towards watershed management with a goal to address drainage issues impacting the region’s most fertile soils. 5.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; i) Continue to consider food and agriculture interests in regional wildlife management discussions and projects.  5.5(i)
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

pollinators;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 ii) Consider emerging wildlife and
environmental issues e.g. beneficial
species (pollinators), invasive and
problematic species. 		 5.5 (ii)
water management; water rate for agriculture; Continue to provide affordable water rates for rural farm operations, and through direction from the water commissions, consider extending them to urban agriculture operations. 5.6

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/ advocacy/liaising; Continue to develop meaningful relationships with Aboriginal communities through regional food and agriculture discussions and activities. 5.7

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/ advocacy/liaising; Pursue regional food and agriculture related partnerships and activities between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities, agencies and groups. 5.8
  farmland trust; Initiate a process to establish a regional food and farmland trust. 5.9
economic development; agri-tourism;  ii) Support strategic business development initiatives for the region’s food and
agriculture sector including agri-tourism.		 5.10 (ii)

Regional District of Nanaimo Regional Growth Strategy

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural industry services, ALR, ALR subdivision, aquaculture, community food system education, farmers' markets, food distribution, food processing, food storage, home occupation/home based businesses, irrigation and drainage, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, research and data collection, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Nanaimo | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

development and productive use of agricultural land;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

ALR;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

Recognize the importance of agriculture to the region’s economy. To this end, the RDN and member municipalities agree to:

Encourage the provincial government to protect the agricultural land base through the ALR;

 7.14
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; Support the agricultural use of ALR lands within designated Urban Areas or Rural Village Areas except in instances where urban land uses have already been established at the time of the adoption of this RGS;
 		 7.14
  research and data collection; Support the preparation of a study of agriculture in the region for the purpose of identifying the issues and needs (both immediate and future) of the agricultural sector; 7.14
economic development;   Encourage and support value-added agricultural industries; and 7.14
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Enhance opportunities for agricultural activity on lands not in the ALR. 7.14
  aquaculture;

Recognize the importance of shellfish aquaculture to the region’s economy and environment. To this end the RDN and member municipalities agree to:

Support the management of the Shellfish Aquaculture leases by the provincial and federal governments;

 7.15

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

 aquaculture; Work collaboratively with the provincial and federal government to protect the shellfish aquaculture leases from wastewater or industrial runoff contamination;
 		 7.15
economic development; aquaculture; Encourage and support value-added shellfish  aquaculture industries;  7.15
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Encourage and support the Agricultural Land Commission in retaining lands within the ALR for agricultural purposes. 8.1

development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Discourage the subdivision of agricultural lands. 8.2
economic development; zoning; Include provisions in their official community plans and zoning bylaws to allow for complementary land uses and activities that support the on-going viability of farming operations. 8.3
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; Establish agriculture as the priority use on land in the ALR. 8.4

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

 ALR; Minimize the potential impact non-farm land uses may have on farming operations and include policies in their official community plans and zoning bylaws that reduce the opportunity for land use conflicts to occur. 8.5
  home occupation/home based businesses; Encourage and support agricultural activity on lands that are not within the ALR. This may include small-scale home-based agricultural businesses. 8.6
economic development;

farmers' market;

food processing;

agricultural industry services;

agri-tourism;

Recognize the importance of value-added agricultural uses and complementary land use activities for the economic viability of farms. To support complementary farm uses, official community plans should consider:

· The provision of appropriately located agricultural support services and infrastructure;

· Reducing impediments to agricultural processing and related land uses;

· Allowing compatible complementary land use activities (e.g., agri-tourism);

· Allowing farmers’ markets and other outlets that sell local produce to locate in all parts of the community.

 8.7

food production;

education;

urban agriculture;

 community food system education; Encourage urban agriculture initiatives and support activities and programs that increase awareness of local food production within the region. 8.8
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the appropriate use of water resources for irrigation of agricultural lands. 8.9
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the provision of drainage infrastructure to flood-prone lands that do not lie within environmentally sensitive areas. 8.10

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 irrigation and drainage; Work in collaboration with federal and provincial agencies, adjacent regional districts, and agricultural organizations to improve access to markets for agricultural products. 8.11

economic development;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support partnerships and collaborate with non-profit groups to enhance the economic viability of farms. 8.12
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Support farms that produce organic agricultural products and use sustainable farming practices. 8.13

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing;

food storage;

food distribution;

aquaculture;

 Support the production, processing, distribution and sale of locally grown produce (including shellfish). 8.14

Electoral Area 'C' Oliver Rural OCP Bylaw No. 2452

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, farm diversification, farm home plate, farm worker accommodation, home occupation/home based businesses, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, protection of farming development permit area, residential development, roads in agricultural land, urban containment/growth boundary, water restrictions and conservation, zoning

Region: Okanagan-Similkameen | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2008

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Topic Subtopic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

water management;

 

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

water restrictions and conservation;

 Encourage the Provincial water authority and the Town of Oliver to make decisions about water availability, quantity and quality with the interests of the agricultural community as the first priority. 6.3.1
education;   Promote public education and awareness of and sensitivity to agricultural operations through farming practices. 6.3.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Continue to support the Agricultural Advisory Committee to consider and advise the Board on agricultural matters, and the preparation of an Agricultural Area Plan. 6.3.3
economic development; agri-tourism; Support agri-tourism activities which promote local agriculture and are secondary and incidental to the area’s farming production. 6.3.4
development and productive use of agricultural;  ALR; Preserve and protect the existing agricultural land base in rural Oliver 6.3.5
development and productive use of agricultural;  ALR: Encourage new agricultural land to be incorporated within the Agricultural Land Reserve. 6.3.6
development and productive use of agricultural;  urban containment/growth boundary; To reinforce the agricultural policies and to preserve the integrity of the Agricultural Land Reserve by establishing an urban containment boundary to define Oliver’s urban/rural boundary. 6.3.7
development and productive use of agricultural;  protection of farming development permit area; Consider the creation of a development permit area for the protection of farming 6.3.8
development and productive use of agricultural;  zoning; Directs that the principal use of lands designated as ‘Agriculture’ on the Official Community Plan Map shall be agriculture. 6.3.9

development and productive use of agricultural land;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

   Supports the policy direction of the Province to implement the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act. The possibility of adopting Farm Bylaws that will support the concept of ‘right to farm’ in the Plan area will be considered. 6.3.10
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Encourages the provision of sufficient buffering of new development adjacent to agricultural areas in the form of setbacks, fencing and landscaping consistent with the buffer design guidelines of the Agricultural Land Commission set out in the document “ALR & Community Planning Guidelines”. 6.3.11
development and productive use of agricultural;  farm diversification; Encourage a range of parcel sizes for farming operations to allow for larger (greater than 10 hectares) and smaller (4 hectares) agricultural operations. 6.3.12
development and productive use of agricultural;  ALR subdivision;
ALR;		 Will consider applications to subdivide parcels smaller than 4 hectares within the Agricultural Land Reserve, subject to approval of the provincial Agricultural Land Commission, in the following cases: a) for a homesite severance under the Agricultural Land Commission’s homesite severance policy.; vi b) where the subdivision or boundary adjustment will allow for more
efficient use of agricultural land or the better utilization of farm
buildings for farm purposes; and
In these cases, the individual parcel sizes within the ‘Agriculture’
designation are subject to approval by the provincial Agricultural
Land Commission, and must meet minimum parcel size required to
meet the applicable Provincial regulations for septic disposal fields.		 6.3.13
economic development; home occupation/home based businesses; Provides for home industry operations, home occupations and bed and breakfast establishments and encouraging secondary ‘value added’ uses such as agri-tourism for the purpose of diversifying and enhancing farm income, provided that these developments: • are compatible with the agricultural character of the area,; • remain incidental to the primary agricultural uses; • remain subject to the provisions of the Zoning Bylaw, the Agricultural Land Reserve Act (if in the Agricultural Land Reserve) and other Provincial standards; and • do not present a potential land use conflict with surrounding properties. v 6.3.14
development and productive use of agricultural;    Supports the consolidation of legal parcels that support more efficient agricultural operations. 6.3.15
development and productive use of agricultural;  roads in agricultural land;
recreational use of agricultural land;
ALR;		 Encourage the Province to minimize the impact of road, utility corridors and trails through agricultural lands, utilizing only those lands necessary and to the maximum capacity prior to seeking new corridors. All levels of government will seek approval of all affected adjacent farm owners. Provision for farms traffic to cross major roads should be made. Trail development should follow the Provincial reference ‘A Guide to Using and Developing Trails in Farm and Ranch Areas’.viii 6.3.16
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; zoning;
buffer at agricultural edge;		 Supports increased building setbacks and other possible restrictions in the Zoning Bylaw for intensive agricultural operations that are not in accordance with the Local Government Act to prevent potential conflicts with adjacent agricultural, residential or commercial uses, subject to compliance with the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act. 6.3.18
development and productive use of agricultural;  farm home plate;
residential development;		 Encourages maximizing productive farm activity and minimizes nonfarm use on farmland by limiting the footprint of non-farm uses. ix 6.3.19
development and productive use of agricultural;  farm worker accommodation; Supports establishing housing for year round farm help and seasonal farm workers. x 6.3.20
waste management;
wildlife/environmental/pest management		 wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourages farm operations and practices that are sustainable and environmentally sound, including best practices for waste disposal, and protection and enhancement of wildlife habitat and ecosystems. xi 6.3.21
development and productive use of agricultural;  zoning; On existing parcels, encourage agricultural use of all farm parcels regardless of size. xi 6.3.22
economic development; agri-toursim; Will consider proposed agri-tourism accommodation development using the following criteria: a) Capability of handling of on-site domestic water and sewage disposal; b) Impact on agricultural productive lands; c) Impact on adjacent land uses and character of the existing area; d) Location relative to existing roads, access and other buildings; and e) Consideration of visual impacts where development is proposed on hillsides and other visually sensitive areas.xiii 6.3.23
development and productive use of agricultural;  farm home plate; Encourages maximizing productive farm activity and minimizing areas of development by clustering buildings, structures and related activities. Xiv 6.3.24

City of Burnaby Pesticide Use Control Bylaw No. 12465

Topic(s): Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): pesticide and pest management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Regulatory Bylaw | Year: 2008

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A Bylaw to regulate the use of pesticides for cosmetic purposes.

Township of Langley Agricultural Viability (Phase 3)

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, commercial development, community food system education, covenants, emergency preparedness, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm worker accommodation, farmers' markets, food processing, irrigation and drainage, livestock, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, roads in agricultural land, signage in agricultural areas, water restrictions and conservation, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2013

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Encourage regional, provincial, and federal governments to establish agricultural policies and protocols that are sensitive to the needs of farm producers and processors (AAC, EDD, commodity groups) 2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support participating in regional and provincial discussions where agriculture is encouraged (AAC) 2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support positive staff contact with individuals and all industry groups, including agriculture, wishing to expand or establish  their businesses (AAC, EDAC) 2.1.1

education;

economic development;

   Support increasing staff knowledge about agriculture by supporting staff training and attendance at relevant agricultural workshops and seminars (AAC). Assess current expectations of various services to agriculture and determine resources that may be necessary to assist the industry with appropriate economic development and support (AAC, EDD)  2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support partnerships with other organizations and agencies and working together to enhance agricultural production in the Township and the region (AAC, farm community, commodity groups, other agencies)  2.1.3
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Support having an active and effective Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC) 2.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Support ongoing monitoring by the Agricultural Advisory Committee of selected indicators affecting agriculture in the Township (AAC, staff) Request an annual work plan from the Agricultural Advisory Committee and ensure an appropriate budget for completion of the work plan
 		 2.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Provide reports on agricultural activities and update the Agricultural Profile as appropriate (AAC, IAF) 2.1.2
economic development;   Support the agricultural industry as an important economic contributor to the Township economy (AAC, EDD, EDAC, commodity groups) 2.1.4
education; agricultural advisory committee; Support the annual farm tour organized and conducted by the Agricultural Advisory Committee and the Langley Environmental Partners Society (AAC) 2.1.4
education; local food culture; Encourage additional cultural and heritage events related to food and culinary products and agricultural background of the community 2.1.4
First Nations and indigenous food systems;   Support First Nations agricultural development on First Nations land within the Township 2.1.4
  emergency preparedness; Support working with all relevant government agencies and agricultural groups and associations to address crises and disasters affecting the agricultural and rural community
(BCMA, PEP, farm community)		 2.1.5
  emergency preparedness; Support emergency planning at the Township and Provincial levels to address flooding issues and concerns (BCMA, PEP, farm community, Drainage and Dyking Committee)  2.1.5
education;   Encourage the students of School District #35, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and Trinity Western University to consider seasonal or temporary agricultural employment in conjunction with their studies (AAC, School District #35, KPU, TWU, farm community) 2.1.7
education;   Encourage local educational institutions to promote work experiences on local farms to their students (AAC, farm community, educators) 2.1.7
   farm worker accommodation; Encourage non-permanent housing for seasonal or temporary workers that conforms to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Guidelines for the Provision of Seasonal Housing for Migrant Farm Workers in BC and that conforms to amendments to the Township’s Zoning Bylaw (AAC)  2.1.7
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Support the promotion of farming options to owners of smaller parcel land in the ALR that is not being farmed (AAC, IAF) 2.1.8
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 Support agricultural production on ALR land where residential use may be the primary use (AAC, land owners). 2.1.8
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Support agricultural production on Township land or land owned by other governments where practical and possible (AAC)  2.1.8

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 nuisance complaints; Support efforts of the BC Ministry of Agriculture and the agricultural industry to inform the public about normal farm practices occurring on area farms (AAC, BCMA, farm community) 2.1.9

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

covenants;

commercial development;

residential development;

nuisance complaints;

 Support the use of a Restrictive Covenant, using Section 219 of the Land Title Act, on all new residential and commercial parcels adjacent to agricultural properties notifying purchasers that the use of their property may be impacted by normal farm practices (AAC) 2.1.9

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 nuisance complaints; Encourage 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 (AAC, FVREB) 2.1.9
education; community food system education; Support the BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation’s “Agriculture in the Classroom” program to educate young people about farming (School District #35, farm community) 2.1.9
economic development; agri-tourism; Encourage agri-tourism and culinary tourism (AAC, Tourism Langley, EDAC) 2.1.11

economic development;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 agri-tourism; Support organizations working to increase agri-tourism and culinary tourism in the Township such as Circle Farm Tours and the Fraser Valley Farm Direct Marketing Association (EDAC, AAC, Tourism Langley)  2.1.11
education;   Recognize the importance of education and training for the growth and development of the agricultural sector in the Township (School District #35, KPU, TWU, AAC) 2.1.12
education;   Support additional education and training for local farmers and others interested in agriculture (AAC, educators)  2.1.12
  new entrants to farming; Support efforts to encourage people to enter farming, through the work of educational institutions and the farm community (AAC, educators, commodity groups) 2.1.13
  amenity density zoning/contributions; Consider amenity bonuses for the agricultural industry where reasonable and possible (AAC, other municipal committees)  2.1.14
water management; water restrictions and conservation; Support water conservation by all citizens 2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the provision of sufficient water for agriculture for all farms practicing efficient water use (AAC) 2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support appropriate ways to measure water use (Property owners, AAC)  2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Encourage farmers unprotected by the dyke system to be aware of the dangers from flooding and to take the steps necessary to minimize risk to their families and farm operations (AAC, BCMA) 2.2.2
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the maintenance and upgrading of the dykes and other related infrastructure (AAC) 2.2.2

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 irrigation and drainage; Encourage senior governments to protect all farm land from flooding using appropriate dykes and other methods (AAC, BCMoE, BCMA) 2.2.2

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 irrigation and drainage; Work closely with the farm community to ensure ditch drainage and maintenance address farmer needs (AAC, DDC) 2.2.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support ditch drainage and maintenance activities that are environmentally sustainable (DDC) 2.2.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Encourage farmers who practice management strategies on their farms to reduce the levels of vegetative growth occurring in ditches (AAC)  2.2.3
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Require Agricultural Impact Assessments (see 2.3.1) be completed for new roads within the Agricultural Land Reserve.  2.2.4
development and productive use of agricultural land; roads in agricultural land; Review rural road standards for arterial and collector roads to ensure that road development meets the growing road demand and has proper lighting and traffic control (AAC)
 		 2.2.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; signage in agricultural areas; Support appropriate agricultural signage in the Township (AAC) 2.2.4

food production;

food processing, storage, and distribution;

   Support food processing on area farms when consistent with the Agricultural Land Commission Act and Regulations (AAC, ALC) 2.2.5
food processing, storage, and distribution;

food processing;

ALR;

 Support efforts to attract food processors to the Township and work with interested processors to provide the infrastructure needs of larger-scale food processing industries within existing and future industrial parks (EDD, AAC, EDAC)
 		 2.2.5
food processing, storage, and distribution; food processing; Support the use of food hubs or clustering, where relevant, as a strategy for increasing agricultural production in the Township (AAC, EDD, BCMA, LSAF) 2.2.5
food sales, access and production;

farmers' markets;

 farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Support 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(AAC, farm community 2.2.5
food sales, access and production;

farmers' markets;

 farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Encourage the establishment of appropriate farmers’ markets in the Township (AAC, EDD)  2.2.5
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; recreational use of agricultural land; Support multi-use trails in or adjacent to agricultural land when implementation takes into consideration concerns of the agricultural community and minimizing conflict (AAC, Parks and Recreation, BCMA, ALC) 2.2.7
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Support seeking advice from its Agricultural Advisory Committee for all applications for removal, boundary adjustment, sub-division or non-farm use on land within the Agricultural Land Reserve (AAC) 2.3.1
 

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Support providing input to the Agricultural Land Commission on applications for exclusion, boundary adjustment, non-farm use and subdivision in the Agricultural Land Reserve as to their benefits to agriculture (AAC)  2.3.1
development and productive use of agricultural land; zoning; Encourage agricultural use for all land zoned for agriculture and within the Agricultural Land Reserve (AAC, BCMA, ALC)
 		 2.3.3
  zoning; Continue to review rural zones within Zoning Bylaw No. 2500 to reduce the number of zones and provide consistency with the BC Ministry of Agriculture's Guide for Bylaw Development in Farming Areas (BCMA, ALC) 2.3.3
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;   Support the concentration of new urban growth within the six existing established urban centres in the Township The Township of Langley, in the medium term and ongoing, 2.3.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; ALR; Support strategies for edge planning in areas of the Township where the Agricultural Land Reserve abuts non-ALR land (AAC, BCMA, ALC) 2.3.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Encourage citizens residing in the ALR, but not farming, to consider appropriate buffering or residential site planning on their land where it may abut active and productive farming operations (AAC,
BCMA, ALC)		 2.3.4
waste management;   Encourage farmers to reduce, or eliminate, open air burning when diseased crops are not present and where recycling programs for the material exist (AAC) 2.4.1
waste management;   Support the use of air curtain incinerators (mainly suitable for large burns) and other technological options by farmers who are committed to open air burning for diseased crops (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.1
waste management;   Support the burning of regular agricultural waste when it cannot be recycled and when all bylaw considerations are being followed (AAC) 2.4.1
education;   Encourage all farmers to ensure those applying chemicals on their farms have the required training for the application and use of chemicals (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.2

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 wildlife and ecosystem management; Support working with farmers and other rural landowners, agricultural and wildlife organizations, and agencies to identify farming practices that enhance wildlife and wildlife habitat (AAC, LEPS,BCMA, BCMoE, farm community) 2.4.3

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 wildlife and ecosystem management; Work closely with the farm community regarding farming near watercourses to balance farming requirements with the requirements for safe water (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Support farmers using best management practices for activities that may impact the quality of surface and groundwater such as proper storage of manure and wood waste, fuel storage, compost sites building locations and livestock access to surface water courses (AAC, BCMA, IAF) 2.4.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; livestock; Support livestock farmers, and other farmers that use manure on their properties, having a nutrient management plan in place to identify farm wastes and how they are to be treated. 2.4.5
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Support the Environmental Farm Plan Program and encourage all area farmers to participate in the program (AAC, BCMA, AAFC) 2.4.6
wildlife/environmental/pest management;   Support the principle of farmer compensation when there is an environmental benefit to the Township, when funding sources are available, and when the investments undertaken on farms exceed existing requirements of law and regulation and result in benefits to citizens at large (AAC) 2.4.7

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)

Lil'wat Nation Community Land Use 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, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): zoning, farm incubator, irrigation and drainage, livestock, research and data collection, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, wildlife and ecosystem management, hunting/fishing/gathering, farmer training

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
education;

zoning;

farm incubator;

farmer training;

 Agricultural Reserve Current pasture area of 500 acres, 20 acre school-owned far land along Lillooet Lake Road which could be used and expanded as an incubator farm for a Nation run farm-school program. 3.3.3   
First Nations and indigenous food systems; hunting/fishing/gathering; Ensure medicinal non-timber forest products are well mapped and work towards establishing “special management zones” or “traditional plant gathering zones” around them. 4.3.2  
First Nations and indigenous food systems;

zoning;

hunting/fishing/gathering;

 Resource Use Special East/West Center; These areas have been set
aside for mushroom gathering, medicinal plant gathering, and hunting.		 3.5.3   
water management; irrigation and drainage; Ensure that flood control and drainage improvements take agricultural needs into consideration in their design, construction, and operation. 4.4.2  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

   Take existing traditional rights to, and use of, the land into account.. 4.4.2  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Attempt making farmland parcels with no access accessible by tying into the Nation’s asset management program and capital planning activities. 4.4.2  
land access;   Provide mechanisms for landless citizens to gain access to farmland. 4.4.2  
food production; livestock; Develop pasture management and livestock control on Líl'wat lands to provide opportunities for sustainable land use. 4.4.2  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; research and data collection;  Research agricultural policies and bylaws in other jurisdictions for application, as appropriate, to Líl'wat agricultural lands. 4.4.2  
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. 4.4.2  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Represent Líl'wat in discussions with local and regional governments and organizations in support of agricultural interests. 4.4.2  
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Ensure that farmland is protected from encroaching residential, industrial, storage, parking and other non-farm developments. 4.4.2  
development and productive use of agricultural land; livestock; Protect agricultural efforts from roaming livestock. 4.4.2  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Promote sustainable use of the natural biodiversity and botanical resources found on agricultural land; 4.4.2  
First Nations and indigenous food systems; hunting/ fishing /gathering; Preserve wildlife areas (habitats) to manage and maintain wildlife populations as well as to provide viable hunting grounds for community members. 4.5.2  

food sales, access, and procurement;

economic development;

   Create an outlet for local entrepreneurs to sell agricultural products, art and any other products at a weekly outdoor market, and other community events. 4.8.2  

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. 

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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
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