The municipal governments in Canada may have more power that many people realize, especially in agriculture. As rural towns grow there are two important areas that municipal governments control, the first is local infrastructure like powerlines, water towers and water systems, the other is the zoning of new buildings, businesses and land as towns expand.
Water and utility are extremely important for farms of all sizes, the ability to water effectively is paramount to a good harvest, but without local hookups to water systems and electricity farms can struggle to effectively take care of the land. Getting adequate irrigation can be done with the help of municipal partners and can reduce water waste and increase productivity.
To avoid farms being forgotten it is important to remain a voice in the community, the more legislators know about farming and the needs of its employees the stronger agricultural growth will be within the area. Having planners and officials elected into office who represent the ideas of small farming will greatly aid in their ability to improve farming life and preserve farmland.
With the impact of COVID-19, there may be an influx of people moving back to small towns. Farmers will need to ensure their voices are heard.