Agricultural property owners wanting to request an early seasonal irrigation connection turn on/off are welcome to use the online form on the Utilities page of this website.
Thanks to all in the Lake Country Agricultural community that provided their input through the survey and in the Cropportunities public engagement event. Find out more and add your voice here - Let's Talk.
The District of Lake Country has contracted Upland Agricultural Consulting to update the 2008 Community Agriculture Plan for Lake Country. The community is quickly evolving, and it is critical that agriculture continues to be an integral part of the community. The Community Development team wants to ensure that the plan reflects the input of the agricultural community as it will be a tool for Council to set priorities and make decisions.
If you are involved in active farming, own land, and/or reside on property zoned A1/A1ta (Agriculture) in the District of Lake Country, it is vital that we get your feedback.
2019 Agriculture Survey Letter
2020 Agriculture Plan Background Report
2020 Market Analysis and Economic Opportunities Report
NEW: 2020 Draft Agriculture Plan
NEW: Background Slides on Draft Agriculture Plan
NEW: Tell us what you think of the Draft Agriculture Plan - Take Survey
In an effort to keep the public and business community informed on the economy of the region, The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s Economic Development Commission (COEDC) – the region’s primary business resource – commissioned an Agriculture Asset Inventory and Agriculture Sector Report.
The Agriculture Asset Inventory provides a comprehensive list of resources available in the region to support the agriculture sector and includes detailed information such as: research infrastructure, funding supports, key individuals (research and expertise), available resources, and support organizations including accelerators/incubators. The Agriculture Sector Report provides an enhanced understanding of current trends and pressures in the agriculture sector. These reports were released to the agriculture industry November 15, 2019.
Background information on the agriculture industry
Beef cattle, poultry and specialty livestock are raised in the area. Dairy producers including artisanal cheese manufacturers are active as well. In the Thompson Okanagn, agriculture is a $450-million industry and contributes thousands of jobs ot the local economy. Lake Country has a strong agricultural base more than a century old. The Okanagan's uniquely warm and dry climate is ideal for growing tree fruit such as apples, pears, peaches, cherries and grapes. The region is known internationally as Canada's wine country, with 84% of BC's wine producers located in the Okanagan. Dozens of award-winning wines including BC's prized ice wines are produced locally.
The agriculture industry within Lake Country is seen to be an asset to the quality of life for all residents within the community. To help ensure that agriculture remains a profitable, vibrant and diverse part of the community, the Lake Country Community Agriculture Plan was completed in 2008 and will be updated in 2019-2020.
In addition, to help support the agricultural industry, the District has formed the Agricultural Advisory Committee, which advises Council on various issues including:
- Agricultural Land Commission applications;
- Land use applications which may affect agriculture and the agri-business community; and
- The impacts long range planning documents may have on agriculture and agri-businesses.
Resources
Key references for safe, sustainable and competitive production for crops in BC - Online berry and vegetable crop production guides
Efficiently manage agricultural wastes and pesticides
