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SLRD doesn't support Squamish Valley campground application

Board waits for updated agricultural plan
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At the Squamish Lilliooet Regional District's latest meeting, the board decided not to support a non-farm use application from the Squamish Valley Campground. The SLRD will also ask the applicant to submit a new application including a plan for how the land where the campground is being moved from would go into agricultural production. 

The campground in the Upper Squamish Valley had plans to relocate from the northeast portion of the property to closer to the river, but in 2017, the owner was told to reapply for non-farm use for the new location. Such an application was submitted in April 2018, followed by more requested information in March 2019.

"We're waiting until our agricultural plan is fully developed and we have a better idea of what is the significance of taking more land out or switching one piece of land to another," SLRD director Tony Rainbow said. 

"I would like to hear from an agrologist about what is farmable, what land could support crops. Where they want to move the camp to — for all I know it might be to a prime piece of agricultural land and where it is now is less than prime. I want to wait."

As it is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), it is up to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) to decide what happens on the campground's land. While the SLRD can make a recommendation, the ultimate authority lies with the ALC. 

Rainbow said the agricultural plan is a joint project between the District of Squamish and SLRD, and they anticipate it to be ready within a year.

 

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