Agricultural Steering Committee
Members:
  • Todd Sandstrum, Chair
  • Jennifer Cummings, Vice-Chair (NRT representative)
  • Edmund Hands
  • Alida Cantor (Farmer representative)
  • John Grant (Conservation Committee representative)

The Town voted at Annual Town Meeting on May 16, 2011 to adopt a bylaw to establish an Agricultural Commission. Applications for appointment to the Commission are currently being accepted. Potential members shall demonstrate an interest in carrying out the Purpose of the Commission, as set forth in the bylaw.  In appointing the members of the Commission, the Selectmen may consider a candidate’s actual experience in agricultural activities.  The term of office shall be three years. However the appointments of the initial members of the Commission shall be as follows: three members for a term of three years; two members for a term of two years; and two members for a term of one year.Click here for additional information on appointments and for an application.

Agricultural Commissions advocate for farmers and agriculture and can help promote agricultural economic development, farmland preservation and agricultural revitalization. In addition to meeting a growing demand among consumers for local products, which are generally fresher, more nutritional and more flavorful than the supermarket alternatives, agriculture can be a local economic driver. As local businesses, farmers contribute to the local economy by providing jobs and by purchasing supplies and products locally.

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August 18, 2011

Agricultural Steering Committee Charge:

The Steering Committee shall consist of five members, with representation from the Natural Resources Trust, the Conservation Commission, a local farmer and two citizens at large.

The Committee will be charged with drafting a bylaw for an Agricultural Commission, preparing a warrant article for the Annual Town Meeting in May 2011 and to gather public support for the Commission. 

The Steering Committee will finalize the bylaw and article within 90 days. The Committee will present the information to the Selectmen prior to the Annual Town Meeting and will hold a public information session.

Approved by the Board of Selectmen 11/1/10