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Q: What is organic farming?
A: Organic farming is an agricultural production system that promotes and enhances biological diversity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony.
Q: How did the Society gain access to the land?
A: Through the work of committed volunteers (many of whom are on the Board), prime agricultural land was protected from becoming a residential subdivision. In support of the goals of the Society, the District of Saanich offered to secure the land from the CRD to ensure the long-term agricultural sustainability of this valuable piece of farm land. Saanich, in turn, leases the land to the Society for a nominal fee.
Q: How is the Haliburton Community Organic Farm currently managed?
A: The Society is currently being managed by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Board or its sub-committees addresses Farming Activities, Fundraising, Education and Community Liaison. We are also supported by volunteers who offer their professional services -- an architect, an accountant and a lawyer. One of our board members acts as the Farm Manager who manages farm activities.
Q: How will the Haliburton Community Organic Farm be developed?
A: We view the development of the farm as a process -- we have started small and are working towards bringing more land into cultivation. In our first year, we fulfilled our goal of tilling one acre, fencing it, and growing late summer/fall crops. The Board viewed this initial acre as a pilot project. In proceeding years, we will be adding two more acreages and farmers.
Q: How was the land rezoned to accommodate the farm?
A: The land was zoned for utility use within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). While a small portion of it remains a utility zone under ownership by CRD Water, the rest of the land has been transferred to Saanich and rezoned, as a Rural Demonstration Farm zone. The Haliburton Farm remains within the ALR.
Q: Will there be walking trails and public education at the farm?
A: Yes, our plan includes the development of a perimeter trail (likely in collaboration with Saanich Parks). The trail will be available for use by the public during the posted hours, when the main gate is open. The farming areas will be fenced (to protect the crops from deer) but there will be numerous opportunities for public participation in workshops and educational events. The gate for the farm will be locked at night.
Q: How will parking and traffic be dealt with?
A: We are making plans to accommodate adequate on-site parking for the educational workshop participants (10-12 vehicles). Farm sales that occur on the property will involve people stopping by the farm at bi-monthly produce pick-up times that should ensure only a couple of cars at any one time. For the few large community events that we anticipate holding, we are investigating temporary off-site parking (through local schools, churches or parks), possible in tandem with a shuttle service. We will also encourage local residents to walk or ride bicycles to the farm. For more information, download our Parking and Traffic Considerations document.
Q: Will there be community markets on the property?
A: In order to keep traffic to a minimum there will not be community markets on the property. There will be produce pick-ups which will happen from Monday to Wednesday throughout the day. If a community market is desirable to the community, we will find a suitable location within the neighbourhood.
Q: Will there be animals at the farm?
A: Our lease allows for some chickens, roosters and ducks.
Q: Does Saanich Council support the Farm?
A: Saanich has been extremely supportive of the Farm to date, and indeed without their support the land would have been sold for development. The Board will continue to work in partnership with Saanich as the farm grows and flourishes.
Q: How can I get involved?
A: The Farm needs support from its neighbours and from residents throughout the region. Please consider becoming a member of the Society, making a donation, or devoting some of your time to the farm through its volunteer opportunities. Visit our volunteer page on this website to learn more about how you can donate your skills or time.
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