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View Agricultural Updates
The Township of Spallumcheen is a beautiful sunny valley made up of rich agriculture and farming operations that have been since the incorporation in 1892. The Township of Spallumcheen gold lettering depicts the bold sunshine, as well as the golden wheat, corn, barley, triticale and oat crops grown within the community. The black walking plow (which is a horse drawn implement), centered on the flag, symbolizes the heritage of farming practices since the community’s incorporation. The brown soil reflects that Spallumcheen is a rich agricultural land base and the green oval signifies the rich green valley within our municipality.
A large part of the Township of Spallumcheen is located in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). The Township has many different types of farming operations located within its borders. This page is to provide information to our local farmers regarding farm operations. This Living in an Agricultural Community - What Can You Expect brochure was created to provide a quick summary of key items to be aware of when living in a rural, agricultural area.
The Agricultural Area Plan is available under this section for further information as to the Township's dedication to Agriculture.
Also, there have been many discussions regarding Emergency Management in the Township of Spallumcheen. We have joined forces with six (6) other communities to provide for Emergency Planning to ensure we are prepared in the event of an emergency. All farmers are encouraged to have some sort of emergency plan in the event of fire, Mass Carcass Disposal emergency, flood, etc.
What is the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)?
The Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is a provincial zone in which agriculture is recognized as the priority use. Farming is encouraged and non-agricultural uses are controlled. The ALR covers approximately 4.7 million hectares. It includes private and public lands that may be farmed, forested or vacant land. Some ALR blocks cover thousands of hectares while others are small pockets of only a few hectares. In total, the ALR comprises those lands within BC that have the potential for agricultural production.
The Agricultural Land Reserve takes precedence over, but does not replace other legislation and bylaws that may apply to the land. Local and regional governments, as well as other provincial agencies, are expected to plan in accordance with the provincial policy of preserving agricultural land. The Agricultural Land Commission Act sets the legislative framework for the establishment and administration of the agricultural land preservation program.
***NEW Residential Flexibility in the ALR effective December 31, 2021*** The current residential regulations remain in effect for the month of December, information on the current regulations can be viewed in Information Bulletin #5 (CURRENT). As of December 31, 2021, new residential regulations will apply, information on the new regulations can be viewed in Information Bulletin #5 (As of Dec 31/21). The ALC has also put together a set of Frequently Asked Questions to help assist landowners with the new residential flexibility regulations.
Launched in 2003, the BC Environmental Farm Plan Program will complement and enhance the current environmental stewardship practices of producers. It is a partnership between Agriculture and Agri-food Canada (AAFC), the BC Ministry of Agriculture (AGRI) and the BC Agriculture Council. The program is intended to assist farm producers in developing an environmental action plan for their farm. This is a plan that enhances natural resources and reduces the possibility of accidental harm to soil, air, water and biodiversity values.
Township of Spallumcheen Agri-Hub Feasibility Study
The Agri-Hub Feasibility Study was conducted to determine what agri-industry uses could be supported in the area.
Township of Spallumcheen Agricultural Area Plan - Provided by Zbeetnoff Agro-Environmental Consulting and Quadra Planning Consultants Ltd. August 2006
Township of Spallumcheen Agricultural Land Reserve Map - (Last updated April 2012)
Hullcar Aquifer Matters - The fact sheet is based on information from the US. We will update as we learn more in our area.
Western Yellowstriped Armyworm Moth - This fact sheet is based on information from the US and we will update as we learn more in our area.
July 2019 Western Yellowstriped Armyworm Update - Picture of the Parasitic Fly Eggs and Adult on Armyworm Stop Western Yellowstriped Armyworm August 2019 Update
The moth flight for the second generation is done.
To help prevent the spread of the worms to the Coast and other areas we recommend the following practices:
Controlling Western Yellowstriped Armyworms in Home Gardens
Avian influenza, known as "bird flu," is a viral infection that spreads easily and quickly among birds. Parts of North America, Europe, Asia and Africa are currently seeing bird flu outbreaks. Your small flocks and pet birds could be at risk of catching bird flu when wild birds migrate to and through Canada in the spring and fall months, as wild birds naturally carry influenza viruses. Now is the time to review your preventative measures to keep your birds healthy, especially if you have a chicken coop or keep pet birds outside. Simple, inexpensive practices can be very effective at keeping this serious disease away from your birds.
More information can be found at the following locations:
Province of BC information and Orders related to Avian Flu
General Order AIV 2023-01 (terminates and replaces General Order AIV 2022-09)
Inspections Canada - Animal Health
Centre for Disease Control
BC Centre for Disease Control
Protect Your Flock Graphic
If you have an active grain, forage or vegetable Production Insurance policy, you should remit a Notice of Loss immediately to start the claim process.
AgriStability
Whole farm income declines may trigger an Agristability payment. You must be registered for the current program year, however the registration deadline has been extended until 2 July, 2019. Program staff are available at 1-877-605-8467 to assist you with the Agristability registration and benefit processes.
Agricultural Area Plan - 2014 updated version.
CleanFarms
Pilot programs to collect items that include baler twine, bale wrap, silage plastic/bunker covers and grain bags are (depending on location) in progress in three communities. Find out more information including What to Recycle and Where on the CleanFarms website.