Exploring the Role of BC Regional Districts
The role that municipal and regional governments play in food and agricultural systems in British Columbia is increasing. Historically, food and agricultural considerations and responsibilities have been within the purview of higher levels of government (e.g., extension, agricultural development, land policy implementation, enforcement/compliance). However, food and agriculture functions and services are being devolved to local levels, with the non-profit and private sectors also playing an increasingly larger role in the delivery of these services. Given the complexities of food systems planning and the increasing role local governments (as well as organizations outside of the public sector) play in this area, it is important to understand the nature of and challenges experienced by local/regional governments that take on this role. To this end, a study was conducted that pursues two questions:
- What are the current roles and responsibilities that regional districts (RD) are taking on to support agriculture and food systems?
- What challenges are RDs facing across the province?
Research Outcomes
Click the buttons below to download the report, policy brief, and infographic produced through this study.
| Full Report | Policy Brief | Study Infographic |
Collaborators and Funding
The study was led by the Food and Agriculture Institute at the University of the Fraser Valley, working in collaboration with the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District and Royal Roads University. This study is part of a broader Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District's Systems Change project, funded by the Vancouver Foundation: Expanding the Influence of Regional Agricultural Support.