STATE AG DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF A HANDBOOK FOR TOWN AGRICULTURAL COMMISSIONS
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) has
announced the release of A Handbook for Agricultural Commissions.
This 150 page book is a step-by-step reference guide for newly organized
agricultural commissions (AgComs).
This handbook, developed by the Pilgrim Resource Conservation
and Development (RC&D) Council through a grant provided by the
MDAR, presents successful organizational and planning strategies used
by AgComs. Actual examples from existing AgComs are provided and include
their purpose, structure and steps they used to plan and implement
their work.
MDAR can also provide hard copy handbooks in 3-ring binders to existing
AgComs throughout the Commonwealth. For more information about AgComs or
to request a copy of the handbook call 617-626-1759.
The AgCom represents the farming community, encourages
the pursuit of agriculture, promotes agriculture-based economic opportunities
and works to protect and sustain agricultural businesses and farmland.
AgComs are a standing committee of town government, created through
a vote at Town Meeting appointed by the Board of Selectmen or governing
body of the town.
AgComs have been organizing in towns and cities throughout the state. More
than 100 AgComs exist today, with more planned for the future.
View
Handbook by Chapter [PDF] | View
Full Handbook [PDF]
Building
Relationships with Town Boards and Staff [PDF]
Organizing
a Town Agricultural Commission
What is an agricultural
commission (ag comm)?
Under Massachusetts law, communities
can create committees at the town level that serve in the interest
of that town.