1 acre of fenced livestock enclosure is available for lease on this ALR land in the Cowichan Valley. Pastured poultry (eggs or meat) would be ideal for this space, but other animals can be discussed. There is an additional garden area, that could be cultivated for mixed vegetables. The landholders are seeking a young, energetic farmer who can make good use of the land. This is an ideal opportunity for a start-up farmer who has agricultural education and/or experience, and is ready to launch a farm business here.
Land Details
Participant in BC Land Matching Program
Yes - This opportunity is participating in the BC Land Matching Program. Reach out to kiyomi@youngagrarians.org to start a conversation.
Total land size in acres
2.5 acres
Wooded Area
No
Cultivable Area
1 acre for poultry/livestock, and 3000-sqft vegetable garden
Expansion potential (acres)
Yes - The garden area could be expanded up to 1/4 acre
Zoning
ALR
Current use
Not used for agriculture - Neighbour's sheep grazing part-time, and a home garden
Current practices
Organic -
State of the surface of the cultivable area
The livestock area has natural grass, periodically grazed by sheep. The garden is in its 2nd year - cultivated mostly for annual vegetables, with some berries and fruit trees.
Description and historical use of land available for farming
This property was subdivided from a bigger farm approximately 30 years ago. The land has not been farmed since then, while being used as a home for the previous owners. The neighbouring fields are used for growing hay/corn for dairy cattle, sheep, and horses.
Road Access
Yes
Electricity
No
Cell Service
Yes
Long-term goal or vision for land
The landholders are seeking a professional farmer to bring growing skills and youthful energy to the land. The landholders envision supporting a new farmer to create an ecological farm that could help educate the children about nature and full circle of food. Shared values and a good personality match are the most important for this match.
Known environmental hazards (wildfire area, flooding, etc.)
No
Current residents living on property
Yes - Landholders (family of 5) live on the property
Availability of farm buildings
Yes - Roadside farm stand is available for shared use
Land is fenced
Yes - The livestock enclosure is fully fenced. The property has perimeter fencing, but the garden is not deer-fenced.
Availability of farm machinery and tools
No
Water source
Well -
Water rights to these sources
Yes - Need to apply for a water license
On-site housing
No
Restricted access of visitors
Yes - Customer access will be okay
Types of production you are open to
Vegetable - Market garden
Livestock - Poultry (eggs and meat), no roosters
Mixed -
Bees -
Practices preferred
Organic - Naturally grown, spray free
Agronomic potential
Good
Soil details
Texture - Clay base
General fertility (nutrients) - 2 years of adding horse manure and lime to increase the soil pH
Preferred arrangement
Lease -
License -
Would you be willing to mentor or advise the entering farmer(s)?
Yes - Business and marketing
Do you require references from the farmer(s)?
Yes
Agreement duration
Long-term collaborative agreement with the right person
