The Agricultural Study Survey in North Saanich completed an inventory of traditional and non-traditional farms and products. The survey methodology targeted owners of farm land with questions to understand the agricultural economy and suggest municipal actions. Respondents spoke to issues in the Whole Community Agricultural Strategy including, farm worker housing, tax reduction, water rates, wildlife, burning agricultural refuse, water runoff, an abattoir and increased public dialog. Other issues raised were the regulation of cold frames, theft from farm gate stands and controversy over agricultural land preservation.

190 Owners or operators of agricultural land were contacted, of which 104 completed the Agricultural Study Survey. The survey responses resulted in an understanding of the utilization and potential of land in North Saanich. Participants were asked about their value adding activities, sales venues, willingness to rent land and interest in an interactive District website. Barriers to more intensive farming and suggested municipal actions were queried. Thirty-one North Saanich agricultural businesses agreed to be listed on the Local Agricultural Producers webpage. Information was also collected for synthetic chemical inputs on farms and the renting of land. Data on land use and commercial goods and services will help guide an agricultural economic development strategy.