Title
Future of Agriculture Study and Action Plan
Proposed Motions
1. That the Future of Agriculture Study be accepted by Council as information.
2. That Administration be directed to use the Future of Agriculture Study Map to guide future policy development.
3. That Administration be directed to incorporate the Agriculture Action Plan into future departmental workplans.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration support the motions as presented.
Purpose
The final Future of Agriculture Study is being presented to Council to be accepted as information.
Summary
The Future of Agriculture Study findings revolve around four main principles that, when implemented, will support a successful and vibrant agriculture community. A summary of these principles are:
1. Integration - better departmental integration on common projects
2. Supportive Land Use Policies - minimizing fragmentation of prime agriculture land while allowing flexibility to support new agriculture uses
3. Entrepreneurial Culture - acting on new and emerging economic development, business attraction and training opportunities
4. Foster Local Leadership - developing new rural leaders and educational programs
Projects identified in the Action Plan align to the principles. Action Plan projects have also been further prioritized by Council and Administration, and will inform future departmental business planning. The Future of Agriculture Study map will be used to guide future policy development, including the completion of the Growth Study and the Municipal Development Plan (MDP) in 2017.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications
The Future of Agriculture Study Action Plan has identified projects which will require staff resources and funding. The Action Plan is for estimate purposes only at this time, and projects will need to be prioritized by the County for completion where applicable.
Study recommendations will inform the completion of policy and regulatory bylaws. This includes t...
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