Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan
The Vision
The Squamish Valley supports an ecologically sound and economically diverse agricultural
sector, where foodlands and water resources are accessible, protected, and productive.
Farmers and processors have the knowledge and skills to be nimble in a dynamic economic
environment, are adaptive to a changing climate, and are part of the solution to mitigate
climate impacts while contributing to food security. Growers, foragers, and fishers are
supported by well-developed harvesting, processing, storage, distribution, and marketing
systems. A combination of traditional and innovative practices ensures that a legacy
between generations is sustained. Nutritious food is plentiful and appreciated as part of a
resilient food system that reinforces human, ecological, and economic health.
The Squamish Valley supports an ecologically sound and economically diverse agricultural
sector, where foodlands and water resources are accessible, protected, and productive.
Farmers and processors have the knowledge and skills to be nimble in a dynamic economic
environment, are adaptive to a changing climate, and are part of the solution to mitigate
climate impacts while contributing to food security. Growers, foragers, and fishers are
supported by well-developed harvesting, processing, storage, distribution, and marketing
systems. A combination of traditional and innovative practices ensures that a legacy
between generations is sustained. Nutritious food is plentiful and appreciated as part of a
resilient food system that reinforces human, ecological, and economic health.
Background & Process
The intent of the Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan was to build upon an expressed desire by the agricultural and food systems community to create a plan that will assist agriculture and related sectors.
In February 2019, the Squamish Food Policy Council in partnership District of Squamish, and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) started moving ahead with the development of an Agricultural Plan for the Squamish Valley. The plan was made possible thanks to a successful funding application to the Investment Agricultural Foundation of BC.
Upland Agricultural Consulting was hired to develop the plan. The Agricultural Plan will also build on the work and findings of the Squamish Agricultural Land Use Inventory (ALUI) completed in 2017.
On January 28, 2020, the DRAFT Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan (SVAP) was presented to the District of Squamish Council, and was given initial endorsement. On January 30, 2020, the DRAFT SVAP was presented to the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Board of Directors, where it was also given initial endorsement. The project team is now in the process of finalizing the plan based on Council, Board, and public feedback. The final plan is anticipated in April 2020.
Download and read the full plan: Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan
In February 2019, the Squamish Food Policy Council in partnership District of Squamish, and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) started moving ahead with the development of an Agricultural Plan for the Squamish Valley. The plan was made possible thanks to a successful funding application to the Investment Agricultural Foundation of BC.
Upland Agricultural Consulting was hired to develop the plan. The Agricultural Plan will also build on the work and findings of the Squamish Agricultural Land Use Inventory (ALUI) completed in 2017.
On January 28, 2020, the DRAFT Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan (SVAP) was presented to the District of Squamish Council, and was given initial endorsement. On January 30, 2020, the DRAFT SVAP was presented to the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Board of Directors, where it was also given initial endorsement. The project team is now in the process of finalizing the plan based on Council, Board, and public feedback. The final plan is anticipated in April 2020.
Download and read the full plan: Squamish Valley Agricultural Plan
Documents & Reports
As part of the planning process, a Background Report and Market Opportunities Analysis have been developed. These reports support 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 to date and the resultant findings.