An agricultural enterprise could take root in Grindrod.
The Regional District of North Okanagan will forward an application for non-farm use at Grandivew Bench Road and Highway 97A to the Agricultural Land Commission for consideration.
John deDood and his family want to use 3,200-square-feet of a barn to open a retail store and increase agricultural awareness.
“The barn will be open to locals, tourists and international visitors,” said deDood, who operates a dairy farm.
“Our goal is to host school groups.”
RDNO is stipulating that at least 50 per cent of the total sales area must be limited to the sale of farm products produced on the farm itself.
DeDood says the plan is for his family to produce a number of food products on the farm and to also sell items from other local farms and producers.
“The concept of the store is to showcase agriculture,” he said.
“There are so many great products in this valley and to have them in one location is a win-win.”
Unanimous support to send the non-farm use application to the ALC came from the regional district board.
“The store is needed. Agri-tourism is an opportunity for people to profit,” said director Greg McCune.
