Agricultural Land Improvement and Regulatory Compliance
Cranberry Meadow Farms Ltd. applied to deposit soil to improve the agricultural capability of their property at the eastern terminus of Francis Road. The application proposes depositing 72,800 cubic meters of soil to raise the elevation and address water issues hindering agricultural productivity. The property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), requiring referral to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) for review and approval. Staff recommends approval of the referral to the ALC. The application satisfies City referral requirements; however, upon ALC approval, the Applicant must meet City Bylaw No. 10200 requirements before receiving a soil deposit permit. The permit will include conditions addressing reporting, invasive species, public safety, drainage, impacts on neighboring properties and infrastructure, security deposits, and operational hours. A security deposit of $200,000 will be required. The project’s estimated cost for the applicant exceeds $700,000, offset by potential tipping fees. The project supports the City’s Flood Protection Management Strategy and Strategic Plan 2022-2026, enhancing food security. Environmental assessments found no significant impact, with mitigation measures planned for riparian areas and sandhill crane habitat. The City and VAAFC reviewed and had no concerns related to a nearby pipeline.