Agricultural Advisory Committee delivers annual update to Scugog Council

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: Local councillors recently received the 2024 annual update from the Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee (DAAC) at its meeting, on Monday, May 5th, presented by committee chair Zac Cohoon.

DAAC, which advises the Region of Durham on agriculture-related matters, acts as a bridge between farmers, rural communities, and regional policymakers. Mr. Cohoon provided councillors with an overview of the committee’s work and the challenges currently facing the agricultural sector.

“DAAC is here to provide an agricultural lens on local and regional decision-making,” said Mr. Cohoon. “We want to ensure the realities of farming are understood, when planning infrastructure, shaping policy, or introducing new initiatives.”

The committee, which includes: 17 members, representing local municipalities; farm organizations; and non-farming voices, has been actively involved in numerous projects over the past year. Highlights included: participation in the North Durham On-Farm Diversified Uses Project, advocacy around farm worker housing by-laws, and consultations related to skilled trades programs.

Mr. Cohoon also pointed to several ongoing regional and provincial matters which DAAC is monitoring closely, such as: the impact of storm-water management fees on farms, transportation of goods, and the rising price of agricultural land.

“There’s a growing concern around policies which unintentionally increase the cost of doing business for farmers — things like tariffs, infrastructure charges, and land use restrictions,” he explained.

Council members were particularly interested in how DAAC’s expertise could support local planning and development. Mr. Cohoon noted the committee regularly provides feedback on strategies related to land use, transportation projects, and economic development initiatives.

“We’re a resource which can help councils make more informed decisions, by bringing the voice of agriculture to the table,” he said.

The committee also discussed emerging topics, such as: backyard chickens, the spread of avian influenza, and the region’s need for more meat processing capacity.

Mr. Cohoon concluded by encouraging municipal representatives to reach out to DAAC, when developing new plans or policies which may affect agriculture. “Whether it's road design, economic strategies, or local by-laws, DAAC is here to help ensure agriculture remains strong in Durham Region,” he said.