Developing a method for regional food system planning in the Sea to Sky Region, British Columbia

Abstract

This study set out to test the potential of an environmental management planning method to be adapted into a food system planning framework, referred to as a Regional Food System Management Plan (RFSMP). The RFSMP approach is a valuable and useful tool for regional food systems planning as it promotes community and environmental sustainability through enhanced food self-reliance. The RFSMP framework was developed and tested in the context of the Sea to Sky Region of British Columbia. The main components of the RFSMP framework included delineation of regional boundaries, stakeholder values identification and calculation of food self-reliance. Implementation of the RFSMP framework focused on the planning stage and the crop production components of the food system. This study recommends future work to address agricultural data gaps, complete the RFSMP framework beyond the planning phase and production component of the food system, and test the planning framework in other regions.