The process of reviewing and updating the Official Community Plan (OCP) in 2008 identified several issues, possible solutions, strategies and actions to support and sustain a viable agricultural community and land base in Central Saanich. As a follow up item, the updated OCP and the subsequent 2009 Strategic Plan committed to developing an Agriculture Area Plan (AAP) for the District. The purpose of preparing an AAP is to establish a clear set of priority actions for the municipality to undertake to support our farming community. The following items were identified as needing further examination:
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defining bona fide agriculture |
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viability of sustainable agricultural operations |
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agri-tourism and agri-accommodation |
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regulatory solutions to land use issues (estate homes and non-agricultural accessory rules) |
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farm labour and criteria for on-farm housing |
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stormwater management and implementing the Integrated Stormwater Management Plan (ISMP) |
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land cost and competing uses / competing value |
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agricultural infrastructure and ag-industrial land uses |
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recycled organic matter and composting |
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minimizing farm - urban conflicts and encroachment of non-farm uses |
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environmental stewardship |
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outreach and support to farming community and new farmers |
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land tenure opportunities to facilitate agricultural development |
Development of the Plan was guided by an agricultural planning consultant. A Request for Proposals was issued in he fall of 2009, with the District selecting a team led by Zbeetnoff Agro-Environmental Consulting. The Ministry of Agriculture prepared an Agricultural Land Use Inventory for the District as part of their commitment towards the project. The District was also successful in obtaining funding from the Investment Agriculture Foundation.
Public consultation was an important part of the planning process. Throughout the project, the members of the farming community and interested residents were encouraged to directly participate in the review and voice their recommendations, comments or concerns on various agricultural issues. Opportunities for input into the AAP were presented on this District website and advertised in the local newspaper.
Thank you to all members of the community who provided input into the plan and continue to support agriculture in Central Saanich.
Funding provided by:
Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada (AAFC), the BC Ministry of Agriculture (BCMA) and the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF), are pleased to participate in the development of this plan. We are committed to working with our industry partners to address issues of importance to the agriculture and agri‐food industry in British Columbia. Opinions expressed in the plan are those of the authors and not necessarily those of IAF, BCMA or AAFC.
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