Here’s an intriguing opportunity from the Village of Pemberton, requesting input from locals and community groups who are interested in improving agriculturally suitable lands for the purposes of farming, to develop a plan for community agricultural parks.

Details below from the August 1 press release:

The Village has secured tenure on several parcels of land with the potential to serve the community through farming uses, including livestock, equestrian, orchards, grains, fruits and vegetables and greenhouses.

“This project goes beyond the Village’s expertise; we can assist with plan facilitation, but it’s the community that has the knowledge and passion to execute.  Pemberton has an incredible roster of resources here that could make this a really viable venture, both socially and economically.” said Caroline Lamont, Manager of Development Services.

Lands identified for the Community Agricultural Parks include Lots 8 and 20 located at the end of Harrow Road, Pemberton Airport, Lot 13 situated East of Signal Hill Elementary School and potentially the future Sunstone and Tiyata Community Gardens.  Lamont also expressed interest in reaching out to the Squamish Lillooet Regional District and Lil’wat Nation in exploring partnerships and resources.

The work program includes initial brainstorming sessions with interested parties the week of August 25^th to August 29^th.  From that, the Village will form a working group that will proceed with the development of site specific farm plans that will need to take into consideration the agricultural potential given existing soils, irrigation, exposure and markets.   The planning process will also include extensive community consultation.

The intent is that the land be cultivated for educational and food supply purposes, to complement rather than compete with existing farms.  Funding is to come from external grants and sponsorship opportunities.

Those interested in learning more about the Community Agricultural Parks, or want to participate in the brainstorming sessions are asked to contact Caroline Lamont at 604-894-6135, ext. 234 or clamont@pemberton.ca.