Project Overview
The Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan was completed in April 2020. Implementation work is ongoing. For a brief summary of the plan, take a look through this PDF:
Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan - At A Glance
In February 2019, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) started moving ahead with the development of an Agricultural Plan for the Squamish Valley. The plan was developed in partnership with the District of Squamish and Squamish Food Policy Council, following a successful funding application to the Investment Agricultural Foundation of BC.
Upland Agricultural Consulting was hired to develop the plan. The intent of the Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan is to build upon an expressed desire by the agricultural and food systems community to create a plan that will assist agriculture and related sectors. The Agricultural Plan also builds on the work and findings of the Squamish Valley Agricultural Land Use Inventory (ALUI) completed in 2017.
Agricultural Land Use Inventory
Reports
As part of the planning process, a Background Report and Market Opportunities Analysis were developed. These reports supported the Ag Planning process. The Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan (SVAP) Background Report provides an overview of the biophysical features of the agricultural sector. In addition, it contains an overview and review of existing planning and policy documents framed through the lens of agriculture. The SVAP Market Opportunities Analysis identifies opportunities for agriculture to thrive and contribute to the economic sustainability of the Squamish Valley and region. The Engagement Summary Report details all engagement activities conducted and the resultant findings.
Background Report
Market Opportunities Analysis
Engagement Summary Report
Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan (April 2020)
Implementation Agreement
Public Engagement
Meaningful public engagement was an important component of developing an effective plan. Engagement activities included a kick-off event at the Brackendale Art Gallery on March 10th, 2020, an online survey, and Steering Committee meetings throughout the development of the plan. In addition, members of the consulting team visited the Squamish Farmers' Market on May 25th, 2020 and met with both vendors and market-goers. A brief presentation about the Agricultural Plan was given at the Ashlu Creek Foundation on May 25th, 2020, and members of the project team conducted a site visit in the Squamish Valley. A final public Open House was held at the Squamish Adventure Centre on February 20, 2020.
Open House Boards
Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan Steering Committee (SVAPSC)
An Agricultural Plan Steering Committee has been formed to guide and contribute to the development of a comprehensive Agricultural Plan for the Squamish Valley. Made up of residents of Squamish and the Upper Squamish Valley (SLRD Electoral Area D), members bring expertise in agriculture, food systems, community economic development and related matters.
Terms of Reference
This Agricultural Plan project is being funded in part by Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada and the Government of British Columbia through programs delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C.