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A - Z index of Programs and Services Towns with Agricultural Commissions Massachusetts Agricultural Commission Website, www.massagcom.org Statewide map of Towns with Ag Commissions [PDF] Organizations Lending Assistance to agricultural Commissions: Agricultural Commissions Handbook Sample Agricultural Commission Warrant Articles. Comments from the Commissioner Model Right to Farm By-Law [PDF] Information on Commonwealth Capital Description of APR Municipal Commonwealth Capital Program APR Municipal Commonwealth Capital Grant Application [PDF] Scott Soares |
Agricultural Commissions
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 617-626-1726. 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 CommissionWhat 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.
Where to get help organizing an Agricultural Commission? As of December 2004 fourteen towns have established ag comms. Click on the town name on the left side of the page to get contact information. Assistance can also be obtained from DAR and the other organizations listed on the left side of this page. A CD is also available to provide
all the tools needed for organizing an ag comm. The CD contains sample
documents that can be customized. The files on the CD, can also be accessed
by clicking on the links below. The CD also
contains a PowerPoint presentation that you can use when speaking to local
groups. The presentation is only available on the CD due to its large
size.
To
order a copy of the Organizing a Town Agricultural Commission CD Contact: Table of ContentsProvided by the |
Ag Comm Conference January 23-24, Massachusetts Agricultural Commissions' Conference:
Making a Difference in Our Communities, The Crowne Plaza, 10 Lincoln Square,
Worcester, MA 01608 - massagcom.org/conference. 
Agriculture Specialty License Plate
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