Sustainable food production relies on healthy ecosystems. In turn, many ecosystems and associated wildlife depend on B.C. farm and ranch land.
Certified Organic Associations of B.C.
“The Certified Organic Associations of B.C. (COABC) is an umbrella association for certification bodies which provides certification accreditation and leadership in the development of organic food production throughout British Columbia and Canada.”
Environmental Farm Plan Program (EFP) – British Columbia
This risk-based audit and planning process is voluntary and is designed to help producers identify areas where environmental improvements should occur on a farm or ranch. The program is intended for all types and scales of farms and ranches in B.C. The program provides information, legislation, worksheets and beneficial management practices related to farmstead; livestock; crops; pest management; soil amendments; stewardship areas; soil; water; air and biodiversity. Producers can apply for funding to implement beneficial management practices.
Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture – United States
The Leopold Center offers extensive resources and research related to sustainable farming and ranching (including marketing, policy, and ecology).
Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF) – United Kingdom
The LEAF Marque standard is a list of questions about how the land is farmed and managed. The questions are applied to the whole farm including rented land and joint ventures. The standard is based on Integrated Farm Management (IFM). The goal of IFM is “…a countryside that is alive with wildlife, supports viable farming businesses and produces wholesome, affordable food.”
National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA) – United States
ATTRA is wealth of information on sustainable agriculture practices. For example, they provide publications on production practices, alternative crop and livestock enterprises, innovative marketing, organic certification, and highlights of local, regional, USDA and other federal sustainable agricultural activities. They provide information and resource on horticultural crops; field crops; soils and compost; energy alternatives; water management; pest management; organic farming; livestock; marketing, business and risk management; and, education.
Planning for Biodiversity: A Guide for B.C. Farmers and Ranchers – B.C. Agriculture Council, British Columbia – Canada Environmental Farm Plan Program.
The guide provides extensive coverage of the relationship between agriculture and biodiversity. It includes is a Biodiversity Assessment Tool and Beneficial Management Practices for farmers and ranchers. It is the first EFP Biodiversity Guide in Canada.
