Saanich is seeking the input from residents as it looks to build a longterm plan for local agriculture that improves food security.
Among the issues Saanich looks to understand are what is working for Saanich farmers, how Saanich residents access healthy nutritious food and other are ideas for supporting local food production and increasing food security in the region.
Complete the survey online before July 31 at this link.
Surveys are also available through the Planning Department at Saanich Municipal Hall – 770 Vernon Ave.
Did you know?
- 21 per cent (2,222 hectare) of Saanich land is farmed;
- 68 per cent of Saanich farms are under 10 acres in size;
- 40 per cent of the farm land in Saanich is crops and 22 per cent is natural or managed pasture land;
- The majority of livestock production is hens & chickens;
- Only 0.4 per cent of the population of Saanich is actively involved in farming and 61 per cent of farmers are over the age of 55.1
- There are four community gardens operating in Saanich
- Local schools run a ‘Farm to School Program’ to provide healthy food at lunch;
- Traditional First Nation foods on Vancouver Island includes herring, rabbit, ducks, goose eggs, crab, scallop, shrimp, clams, berries, seaweed, deer, moose and a large variety of fish;
- The agricultural soil capability rating in the Saanich is generally very high.
