Title
Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) and Green Acreages Program Update
Proposed Motion
That the Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) and Green Acreages Program update presentation and report be received for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
That Council receive the Alternative Land Use Services and Green Acreages update report as information.
Purpose
To provide Council with an update on the activities undertaken and the progress made in implementing the County's voluntary stewardship programs in 2016.
Summary
The Alternative Land Use Services Program began as a pilot project in 2012. Since then, 26 producers have enrolled 728 acres to produce ecosystem services in this fully developed program. External funding received for the program to date totals over $1 million.
The Green Acreages Program was initiated in 2015 to fill the demand for stewardship assistance on acreage properties. Residents have continued to express a high degree of enthusiasm for the program by attending workshops and developing project plans. Currently 11 funding agreements have been completed or are in process, and $130,000 in external funding has been retained for project implementation in 2017-2018.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications
The stewardship programs support Council's commitments to:
1. Provide environmental education for residents and businesses.
2. Implement measures to protect natural features and resources.
Financial Impact:
Cost: N/A
Source of Funding: Various grants, some matching taxation dollars.