Letter to the Editor: Let’s Really Support Local Agriculture

— from Sandy Strehlou of the Committee for Diversified Agriculture —

Last week the County Council announced that they will not be putting the proposed greenhouse regulations on the Council agenda. While it doesn’t mean the Council has dropped the issue for good, this is still good news. I choose to see it as an indication that the Council listened to islanders’ concerns about over-regulation without proof of substantive problems. For this, I thank the Council.

While the debate around the issue was contentious, I believe it was useful for shedding light on a host of local agricultural issues. For one, more people are now aware that the County has Right to Farm provisions (Land Use 18.30.050) currently on the books, and more now recognize that farm diversification, greenhouses and other contemporary farming tools are necessary for extending the growing season and making farms viable.

Isn’t it high-time to reconsider the importance of saving farms and supporting farmers? These issues are critical to many; to our hardworking farmers, but also to consumers, open-space advocates, environmental sustainability, food security, and preserving the rural character of the San Juans. Let’s continue to watch for and support local compliance with Right to Farm laws, and preserving farmland priorities in our community.