Title
Small Agricultural Holdings Viability Scan Final Report
Proposed Motion
That the Small Agricultural Holdings Viability Scan Final Report be received for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the Committee accepting the final report for information.
Purpose
The study was completed to compliment the work being completed through the Regional Ag Master Plan to determine how the County can support small ag businesses. The study investigated if there were any barriers the County could address to encourage small ag holdings. The final report and recommendations are being presented to Committee for information.
Summary
The study findings and analysis informed the following conclusions:
1. The agricultural land base in its current form has sufficient opportunities for small holding appropriate businesses.
2. Small holdings support significant employment and increasing secondary economic benefits for the agriculture industry.
3. Proximity to market and amenities is critical for agri-tourism businesses.
4. Soil quality is more important than proximity to market for small holding businesses engaged in primary production.
5. There are minimal regulatory barriers to small holding businesses.
The findings and associated analysis provide the basis for the following recommendations:
1. Utilize existing small holdings and other agricultural land base to encourage growth in the emerging agri-food sector.
2. Support emerging intensive food producers by encouraging alternative land access strategies and market access in addition to supporting agri-tourism in targeted locations.
3. Amend the LUB to remove small regulatory barriers.
4. Consider agricultural easements as country residential leakage mitigation for small holding subdivision applications.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
The findings of the report and recommendations will be considered in updates to the Land Use Bylaw.
Financial Impact:
Cost: $20,000
Source of Funding: Coal Communities Transition Fund