Whereas food insecurity remains a critical issue in British Columbia, exacerbated by climate change, economic instability, and supply chain disruptions, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, Indigenous communities, and socioeconomically disadvantaged regions; And whereas a resilient and inclusive food system requires sustained investment, cross-sector collaboration, and policies that integrate infrastructure development, technological innovation, cultural food systems, and community-driven approaches to ensure equitable access to nutritious food, economic resilience, and regional food security: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia collaborate with local governments to develop and implement a comprehensive food security and well-being strategy that ensures sustainable investment in local food systems, strengthens regional and provincial food networks, promotes innovation in agriculture and food technology, and enhances access to culturally appropriate, affordable, and nutritious food for all communities.
Ministry of Agriculture and Food The Ministry of Agriculture and Food AF appreciates the intent of this resolution and recognizes the importance of food security and well-being for British Columbians. We value the leadership of local governments and other agencies in supporting equitable food access and well-being. In our 2025 mandate letter, the Premier requested that AF prioritize expanded affordability and food security in the province by controlling costs for farmers and subsequently for BC families. The resolution aligns with the recommendations of the Premiers Task Force on Agriculture and Food Economy, co-chaired by AF. Submitted in November 2025, the Task Force addressed sector challenges and proposed actions to strengthen BCs food security and economy, focusing on water, land, labour, competitiveness, and investment. AF is reviewing these recommendations, with implementation expected to involve multiple ministries and collaboration with industry, local governments, and First Nations. Many of the Ministrys initiatives in recent years support secure food supply, stable production, and economic viability including the Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program, the Food Affordability and Innovation Fund, and the Food Security Emergency Planning and Preparedness Fund. AF also supports agriculture and food production through Business Risk Management programs, the Beneficial Management Practices Program, the Extreme Weather Preparedness Program, the Extension Program, the On-Farm Technology Adoption Program, the Tree Fruit Climate Change Resiliency Program, and the Fraser Valley Flood Mitigation Program. In 2020, a cross-Ministry Food Security Steering Committee was established to coordinate food security initiatives across the BC Government. This collaboration brought together the ministries of AF, Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and Health to advance shared goals. Since then, the Province has made significant investments to strengthen food security and well-being, including a 200 million commitment in 2023 to improve the food supply chain, expand local food production, support Indigenous and remote communities, and increase food access. The Provinces 2024 Poverty Reduction Strategy focuses on food security in the meeting basic needs action areas. Local governments were actively engaged in the development of the strategy and will continue to be engaged moving forward, ensuring alignment with community priorities and progress reporting. AF continues to work on enhancing the security of the provinces food supply through strengthening the stability and economic viability of the agriculture and food sector. We encourage local governments to continue their important work addressing equitable food access and regional economic development inclusive of the agri-food sector.