BC Grain Producers Association president talks ALC staffing cuts ‘concern’

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Staffing cuts at the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) are “absolutely a concern.”

That’s according to Malcolm Odermatt, a farmer in Baldonnel and president of the BC Grain Producers Association, who has spoken out against the ALC’s decision to cut 42 staff.

According to Odermatt, the ALC protects farmland by ensuring people use it for its intended purpose, rather than “recreational lifestyles.”

In a conversation with Energeticcity.ca, Odermatt says he is concerned about the effects of the cuts long term. 

“They [the ALC] does a lot more than just compliance and making sure people aren’t squandering and misusing farmland,” Odermatt said. “At the same time, we need to make sure that B.C. is prosperous. If farmland does need to be subdivided, that’s the organization that would do it.

“I understand the province needs to cut, but I’m just scared that they’re cutting in an area where it’s going to hurt long term.” 

Odermatt says he has reached out to Lana Popham, minister of agriculture and food, who assured him the cuts wouldn’t impede the compliance and enforcement officer, but he still has his doubts. 

Popham told Energeticcity.ca the ministry remains committed to supporting farmers despite the staffing cuts. 

“This is a very difficult time for those affected, and for the Agricultural Land Commission,” Popham said. “The ALC does important work to protect farmland and encourage farming. The ALC has faced increasing challenges in recent years. I am confident the ALC will continue to carry out its important work and that it remains firmly committed to advancing B.C.’s farmers, food security and food economy.”

Jordan Kealy, MLA for Peace River North and co-owner of Kealy Farms, says while the cuts are a concern, the ALC has a bigger issue on its hands.

“The cuts are detrimental,” said Kealy. “The Agriculture Land Commission needs to be restructured so it better serves farming.”

Kealy says farming practices differ between the Peace River region and the Lower Mainland, and representation needs to be equal when it comes to funding. 

The ministry says its budget of $5.5 million is the same as last year’s budget, and that it has increased by $500,000 since 2022.