18 LOBBYnfrom pg 17


Other concerns included the need for a group to lobby on behalf of Langley farmers and small farms generally; education and extension work; and encouraging collaboration among farms. BC Sheep Federation


president Barb Ydenberg of Wind’s Reach Farm came to the meeting to represent sheep farmers. “I always think it’s


important that sheep farmers get their viewpoints heard at the agricultural meetings,” she says. “I think small farmers are lacking a strong voice.” She added that many of the farmers in the room were in dairy, such as township councillor David Davis, but she feels they have good representation already. Reeve noted that the


Farmers and Womens Institutes Act says farmers’ institutes are “cross- commodity in nature and are concerned with most aspects of the farming industry and society from a community agriculture perspective.” Although the legislation is


over 100 years old, Reeve says farmers’ institutes are enjoying a revival in BC. “The township itself is frustrated trying to reach farmers and to communicate with farmers,” she says. “It’s good to see that the


Langley Environmental Partners Society agricultural program coordinator Amanda Smith helped lead discussions important to farmers at the October meeting that led to the formation of the new Langley Farmers' Institute. RONDA PAYNE PHOTO


township is invested in this as well.” In researching possible models to follow, Reeve found


that one of the newest BC institutes is the Sunshine Coast Farmers’ Institute, formed earlier this year. The


focus of this group is on professional development and organizing bulk purchasing of feed and other


materials. Zabek says this is one of three new farmers’ institutes established in the last three years.


COUNTRY LIFE IN BC • DECEMBER 2019


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