About Our Organization
More than 20 years ago farmers on the Old Mission Peninsula came together to offer a unified voice with regard to ordinances being proposed by the then township which would have limited the ability of farmers to find new ways to enhance their farm income.
For most of those 20 years the farmers were able to sustain their farming operations. However in the last several years the economic climate for farming has changed. In addition, the demographics of the peninsula has changed. The peninsula is no longer primarily agricultural. The population has grown and the need for housing has put pressure on agricultural land. In addition the non farming community often does not understand the state of play on the peninsula when it comes to farming and often opposes any attempt to expand their operation beyond simply growing crops and marketing only the crops. Processing or accessory uses are often opposed by the non farming community.
Of significant concern is that the various markets for peninsula fruit has drastically changed for the worse. Tart cherries are no longer a mainstay for farmers. Apples too are under siege as the demand has slowly eroded over the years. Grapes once thought as a haven for other disappearing fruit markets too is seeing reduced demand as wine tastes change.
New accessory uses need to be supported in order for farming to be sustained on the peninsula. The right to farm needs to be supported by the township and novel ways to add to a farmers income needs to be supported. No longer can a farmer rely on just the sale of his fruit to remain in farming. In addition, young people need to be encouraged to engage in farming.
New products such as lavender have been introduced. Accessory uses like airbnbs, farm to table dinners, corn mazes, and events such as weddings should be considered.
Our Mission & Goals
Background: 25 years ago,following years of township roadblocks to the emerging winegrape industry, a group met and formed the “Agricu;tural Preservation League”. The mission was a sounding board for our members and a unifying voice in the community.
Vision: “Growing The Future”
Key Needs Identified then were:
- Right To Farm
- Transportation, M-37 @55 mph to Accommodate Trucking
- Buffers
- Migrant Housing
- Restricted and unrestricted farms had the same rights
- Uses by right i.e. on farm direct sales
Over many months amendment 139 was negotiated and passed with overwhelming support.
Following the passage and an “outbreak of peace” the League was dissolved. Success and growth of the wine industry brought opposition from activist groups culminating in a lawsuit brought by the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula. In this environment, the township passed a new Farm Processing amendment #201 drafted in large part by the activists. This was done with the strong opposition of growers.
What is needed now?
- A communication platform giving growers a strong voice for ag opportunities.
- Support to those growers who are appointed to the “Agriculture Advisory Committee”.
- Reinforce those needs identified 25 years ago and expand agritourism opportunities as well as power generation (wind/solar) needs. Ag uses by right can be clearly defined and when requirements are met, proceed with granting land use permits.
- Revision of Amendment 201.