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January 30, 2013 at 1:36 PM

Agricultural Commissions have been established by over two dozen cities and towns in New Hampshire to foster awareness of farming, forestry and locally grown food, garden and forest products. Often referred to as “Ag Comms”, the Commissions have no regulatory or enforcement authority, acting in an advisory capacity to other municipal boards or commissions and as advocates for the farming community.

In 2006, the NH Farm Viability Task Force, created by the NH legislature and appointed by the Governor, included establishment of Ag Comms as one of 10 key recommendations. The Task Force concluded that Ag Comms can be the voice for agriculture in each municipality, ensuring that agriculture remains in their town by identifying barriers to the viability of farming, such as local regulations or ordinances. Enabling legislation for Ag Comms was adopted in 2007, NH RSA 674:44-e. For more information on the NH Farm Viability Task Force recommendations review the Final Report.

As consumer awareness and interest in locally grown food and food security grows, enabling increased production of locally grown food and other agricultural products has become a priority for many in New Hampshire. In response, the Rockingham Planning Commission has provided outreach and education programs to municipal officials and residents interested in establishing an Agricultural Commission in their community. This work is done in cooperation with UNH Cooperative Extension, the NH Coalition for Sustaining Agriculture, and members of established Agricultural Commissions. Examples of projects initiated by Ag Comms include master planning, zoning ordinance revisions, creation of farmers’ markets, and buy local programs.

For more information on establishing an Agricultural Commission, please contact your regional planning commission.

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