Over 20 Island farmers are getting access to more affordable, available farmland after partnering with a provincial land matching program. (FreePik)

By farmnewsNOW Staff

AFFORDABLE LAND

Island farmers getting access to affordable farmland to grow food production

Aug 7, 2020 | 3:10 PM

NANAIMO — A collection of young farmers on Vancouver Island are being given a leg up through a provincial program to share farmland.

A total of 24 farmers on Vancouver Island have been matched through the B.C. Land Matching Program (BCLMP) with established farmers to lease sections of their properties at an affordable cost.

The agreement helps land owners ensure their properties remain productive, while giving those needing land a much needed boost.

“Whether they are new farmers, or established farmers who need more land, each farmer has their own unique criteria when looking for farmland,” Lana Popham, B.C. minister of agriculture said. “The services delivered by Young Agrarians are so valuable in bringing people together and making these matches that meet everyone’s needs.”

Valorie Masuda and Alan Moore own a 10 acre food production farm outside of Duncan. They matched with Megan Henwood and Callum Bottrell through the program.

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Henwood and Bottrell wanted to create a mixed farm of vegetables, duck eggs and grains for their food truck business.

Stuart Oke, youth president of the National Farmers Union said the program has helped address significant barriers facing new farmers.

“As a worsening climate and rising land prices create further obstacles for farmers, it’s programs like this one that will help to address serious gaps in our food system and provide a clear path for young farmers, as well as help to ensure our food system into the future,” Oke said.

Overall, 81 matches have been made through the BCLMP, farming a range of products from vegetables and grain, to berries and honey.

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