Town of Stony Plain Municipal Development Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): crops, farm retail/farm gate sales, food distribution, livestock, urban gardens/orchard, zoning

Year: 2013

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Topic Subtopic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

 food distribution; Environmental Responsibility Address issues of community resiliency The Town is committed to developing sound policy to address protection of local food production and distribution. 1.5 a

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

urban agriculture;

 food distribution; The Town will research best practices for urban agriculture and appropriate stages for support of the food production and distribution system. 1.5 b

urban agriculture;

food production;

 urban gardens/orchard; The Town will encourage community food gardens by offering leasable allotments on select municipal reserve lands and allow for small-scale agricultural operations that are compatible with an urban built environment and existing land uses within the Town’s boundaries. 1.5 c

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agricultural conflict & edge planning;

 zoning;

Areas for Future Urban Development
So that these areas are protected for future development potential, the Town will only allow uses that will not adversely impact urban settlement or that will not be detrimental to future urbanization. Sites may remain as existing uses, agricultural uses or other development uses that do not require major buildings or services. Should a road be developed to service such uses, it should be designed to accommodate future urban servicing.

 6.8
food production;

crops;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

livestock;

 Areas for Future Urban Development
Extensive agricultural uses, such as field crops and market gardens supported by roadside produce sales, are encouraged, but intensive agricultural uses, such as livestock operations, will not be supported.		 6.8 b

 

City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution

Topic(s): Food Production

Sub-topic(s): crops, GE/GMO

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Other | Year: 2012

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City of Richmond Regular Council Meeting Minutes responding to City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution. See Council Meeting Minutes, May 28th, 2012 for details. See excerpt below:

 

" 8. City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution

(File Ref. No. 008-4040-08-01) (REDMS No. 3518727, 3523078, 3523135, 3521708)

 

(1) WHEREAS for the purposes of this resolution the following terms are defined accordingly:

“Genetic Engineering and Modification / Genetically Engineered and Modified (G.E., G.M., G.M.O.)” refers to the direct manipulation of an organism’s DNA using recombinant DNA technology.  For the purposes of this resolution genetic engineering does NOT include traditional selective breeding, conjugation, fermentation, hybridization, in vitro fertilization, tissue culture, or marker assisted selection;

(2) WHEREAS such crops may pose health and other risks; and

(3) WHEREAS there are now a limited number of such crops grown in the City of Richmond each year,

 

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

(1) That the City of Richmond hereby opposes the cultivation of genetically engineered plants and trees in the City of Richmond with the exception of existing GMO crops, and that from this Resolution forward, no further GM crops, trees, or plants should be grown in the City of Richmond. This also includes GM fruit trees, all GM plants and shrubbery, GM vegetables, GM commodity crops and any and all field tests for medical and experimental GM crops;

(2) That Option 1: Support Consumer Choice/Advocate for Strengthened Senior Government Management as described in the report titled “City of Richmond: Response to Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution”, dated April 26, 2012, from the Interim Director, Sustainability and District Energy be endorsed;

(3) That letters be sent on behalf of Council to the Prime Minister, Premier and leaders of the Federal and Provincial opposition, and copied to relevant Ministers in the Federal and Provincial governments, Richmond MPs and MLAs, Metro Vancouver, UBCM, the LMLGA, and the FCM, advising of these resolutions and requesting strengthened management of genetically modified plants, including the introduction of mandatory labelling requirements, more transparent assessment procedures and enhanced communication with the public; and

(4) That the City of Richmond agrees to revisit this resolution as pertinent new information becomes available that affects this resolution.

 

ADOPTED ON CONSENT

 

..."

retrieved from http://www.richmond.ca/cityhall/council/agendas/council/2012/052812_minutes.htm, February 2017

Corporation of Delta Agricultural Area Plan

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

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

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

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

food processing;

farm diversification;

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

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

water management

water rate for agriculture;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

land access;

leasing of land for agriculture;

farmland trust;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

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

recreational use of agricultural land;

signage is agricultural areas;

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

nuisance complaints;

covenants;

residential development;

disclosure agreement;

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

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

farm diversification;

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

crops;

food processing;

irrigation and drainage;

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

new entrants to farming;

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

new entrants to farming;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

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

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

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

soil;

ALR;

deposit of fill and dumping;

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

farmland speculation;

ALR;

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

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

education;

nuisance complaints;

ALR;

residential development;

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

covenants

farmland trust

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

local food culture;

community food system education;

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

urban agriculture;

education;

community food system education;

urban gardens/orchard;

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

education;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

signage in agricultural areas;

farm traffic;

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

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife nad ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships and advocacy;

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

research and data collection;

wildlife and ecosystem management; 

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

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

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

 5.4.3
 

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and development ;

crops;

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

tax mechanisms;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

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

Salt Spring Island Area Farm Plan

Topic(s): Education, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Nutrition and Public Health, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): community food system education, local procurement, seeds, GE/GMO, crops, wildlife and ecosystem management, partnerships/advocacy/liaising

Region: Islands Trust | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2008

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
education; community food system education; Increase agricultural awareness of new and potential residents. Recommendation 8;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage the implementation of beneficial farm management practices. Recommendation 11;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Explore potential programs that support environmental services on farms. Recommendation 12;
education; community food system education; Improve local agricultural literacy through the provision of agriculture focused public education activities and events. Recommendation 13;
education; community food system education; Increase agricultural education opportunities for children and youth. Recommendation 14;
education;   Increase local agricultural training and mentoring opportunities. Recommendation 16;
food sales, access and procurement;   Develop a coordinated approach to production and sale of locally
grown products.		 Recommendation 18;
food sales, access and procurement; local procurement; Encourage the development of local agricultural product purchasing
policies.		 Recommendation 21;

food production;

seeds;

crops;

 Increase local seed production capability. Recommendation 22;

food production;

GE/GMO;

crops;

 Encourage producers to adopt a genetically engineered (GE) free policy for locally grown agricultural products. Recommendation 23;

nutrition and public health;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

   Establish local food safety protocols and standards that reflect the needs of small producers and processors. Recommendation 24;
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising Participate in regional, provincial and national agricultural discussions. Recommendation 25

Please see document for detailed actions.

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  

 

 

 

City of Surrey Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 18020

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

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

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

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

soil;

ALR;

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

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

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

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

agricultural impact assessment;

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

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

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

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

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

research and data collection;

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

economic development;

food production;

farm diversification;

crops;

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

farm incubator;

new entrants to farming;

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

community food system education;

farmer training;

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

research and data collection;

farmer training;

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

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

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

water management; 

food processing, storage and distribution;

food production;

irrigation and drainage;

crops;

food processing;

livestock;

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

food processing, storage and distribution;

 

food processing;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

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

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

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

 E3.24; *

food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 

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

local food culture;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising

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

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

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

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

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

pilot project;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

waste to energy;

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

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

community kitchen;

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

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food policy council;

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

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing, storage and distribution;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

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

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

urban gardens/orchard;

pesticide and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

farmers' markets;

food distribution;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

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

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

food access, sales and procurement;

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

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

research and data collection;;

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

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

 

District of Saanich Sustainable Saanich Official Community Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, crops, deposit of fill and dumping, farm diversification, farmers' markets, irrigation and drainage, soil, urban containment/growth boundary, urban gardens/orchard, water rate for agriculture, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Capital | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2008

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary;

Maintain the Urban Containment Boundary as the principal tool for growth management in Saanich, and encourage all new development to locate within the Urban Containment Boundary.

 4.2.1.2 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary;

Do not consider major changes to the Urban Containment Boundary except as an outcome of a comprehensive fi ve year review of the Regional Growth Strategy.

 4.2.1.3 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary;

Do not adopt any bylaw or resolution providing for a major expansion to the Urban Containment Boundary without first obtaining the assent of the electors through a referendum or plebiscite.

 4.2.1.4 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban containment/growth boundary;

ALR;

 Support the retention of rural and farm lands through adherence to the Urban Containment Boundary policy and preservation of the Agricultural Land Reserve (Map 19). 4.2.5.1;  
development and productive use of agricultural land; zoning; Maintain farming, food production, and large lot residential as the predominant land use on rural lands.  4.2.5.2; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Maintain a minimum parcel area of 2.0 ha for the A-1 (Rural) zone and 4.0 ha for the A-4 (Rural) zone. 4.2.5.3; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Consider opportunities to incorporate food producing community gardens into parks and other public open spaces, where appropriate. 4.2.8.14;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

 Do not support applications to exclude land from the Agricultural Land Reserve,unless: a qualified professional agrologist provides evidence that the property is incorrectly designated; and exclusion would not adversely affect the long term agricultural value of the adjoining land within the Reserve. 5.1.1.2; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Do not forward applications to the Agricultural Land Commission to subdivide land within the Agricultural Land Reserve ( Map 19) unless: the owner has continuously owned and occupied the property as a principal residence since December 21, 1972 and no subdivision has occurred since that date; or there are already two dwellings on the parcel; or it would facilitate changes to an existing public institution; or ƒit would increase the agricultural capability of an existing farm as defined by the BC Assessment Authority and there is on-site evidence of keeping animals or land cultivation at a commercial level. 5.1.1.3; *

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

 farmers' markets; Support innovative farming and local marketing techniques such as pocket farm markets, which help improve the economic viability of food production in the community. 5.1.1.7; *

food production;

water management;

irrigation and drainage;

crops;

livestock;

 Support efforts of farm operators and other agencies to enhance farmland and increase crop yield, by improving water supply and undertaking drainage improvements and improving soil capabilities, while considering environmental impact. 5.1.1.8; *
wildlife/environmental/pest management; BC environmental farm plan; Encourage environmentally sound agricultural practices by promoting the BC Environmental Farm Program. 5.1.1.9; *

food production;

economic development;

farm diversification;

crops;

 Support the development and operation of specialty crop farms to diversify farm production, increase economic development, increase local food production, and improve farm income. 5.1.1.10; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Strengthen local sustainable agriculture by supporting “backyard gardening” and community garden initiatives. 5.1.1.12; *

urban- ag conflict/edge planning;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

 urban containment/growth boundary; Support small-scale agricultural initiatives on lands inside the Urban Containment Boundary, while balancing the need of neighbouring residents. 5.1.1.13; *
urban- ag conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Buffer rural and agricultural lands from adjacent urban residential development as part of redevelopment and subdivision proposals, where appropriate. 5.1.1.14; *
water management; water rate for agriculture; Continue to support a special water rate for agriculture. 5.1.1.15; *

 

development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

deposit of fill and dumping;

 Encourage the Agricultural Land Commission to review current deposit of fill practices on ALR lands, in order to preserve the agricultural capability of ALR lands. 5.1.1.16; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil; 

ALR;

deposit of fill and dumping;

 Discourage the deposit of fill on rural and ALR lands that results in the soil’s agricultural capability being diminished. 5.1.1.17; *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

soil;

ALR;

 Support the preservation and enhancement of the soil’s agricultural capability on rural and ALR lands. 5.1.1.18;  

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food production;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Encourage the development of a Property Assessment policy that primarily supports local food production, and does not inadvertently result in ecological degradation. 5.1.1.19;  

 

 

City of Duncan Genetically Engineered Crops & Foods Policy

Topic(s): Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement

Sub-topic(s): crops, GE/GMO, local procurement

Region: Cowichan Valley | Document Type: Policy | Year: 2014

View policy:  HTML PDF

A policy stating that the City of Duncan does not support the use or cultivation of genetically engineered (GE) crops and animals by abstaining from purchasing GE plants or trees for City operations.

 

Supplementary Information

 

Interview with the City of Duncan Re: Genetically Engineered (GE) Crops and Foods Policy

The City of Duncan’s Genetically Engineered (GE) Crops and Foods  policy opposes the cultivation of GE crops and foods within the City and, where reasonable, the purchase of GE foods for City events.

Policy Development and Adoption

The development of the policy was motivated by the Municipality’s Community Sustainability Plan, which included a suggestion to consider the adoption of a policy addressing GE crops and foods. 

The policy was developed by Council’s Environment Committee after a series of discussions and presentations from professionals and community advocates. These considered both arguments for and against the use and cultivation of GE crops and foods as Council actively sought information from both sides of the debate prior to adopting the policy, which was approved in 2014.

The policy language was developed with the intent of adopting an educational stance, rather than a prescriptive one.

Policy Implementation

Since there is very little opportunity for the purchase of genetically engineered plants, trees or seeds for use in the City of Duncan, the policy’s implementation did not impact the purchasing practices of the City’s public works department.

To implement the policy for City events, the municipality asks caterers to identify the genetically engineered food products that they use. The goal of this practice is to maintain and update records of the provision of GE foods at City events. In this way, the City aims to use the policy as an informative tool. 

Policy Outcomes and Recommendations

To date, the policy has not been as effective as intended.  As a result of staff turnover and other factors, implementation of the policy has been given varying levels of attention.  Since revisiting the policy in order to provide information for this database, the City aims to increase its efforts to request and display information from caterers regarding their use of GE foods. 

One possible way in which the City is considering re-tooling the policy to increase awareness of the use of GE foods in City events is by assembling an accessible booklet of GE information retrieved from caterers. This booklet would be kept near the food at events catered for City Council so that information could be easily accessed.

 

References

City of Duncan, personal communication, November 2016

 

 

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