The Provincial Government is launching its review of the St. John�s Urban Region Agriculture Development Area with the opening of an office dedicated to the process and subsequent public consultations.

"The preservation of agricultural land is important to ensure the continued growth of the industry in the province and in this region," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources. "At the same time, it is also important to ensure that only land that is relevant to agricultural development is included in the Agricultural Zone."

Placentia & St. Mary�s MHA Felix Collins will lead the St. John�s Urban Region Agriculture Development Area Review Commission. The commission will invite public and individual submissions from everyone with an interest in the St. John�s Urban Region Agriculture Development Area.

"I look forward to hearing from all the farmers, citizens and business people who are committed to this important resource," said Commissioner Collins. "This open and transparent review process will focus on sustaining existing farmland initiatives and providing solutions to overcome land-related barriers to farming and urban development."

The St. John�s region has experienced significant growth in population and industrial services with the growth of the oil and gas industry and related spin-offs. At the same time, the agriculture industry has witnessed tremendous growth with the increased production of industrial milk, food processing facilities and silage corn production. Continued interest and demand for agriculture and commercial development has prompted government�s review of this agricultural area.

The commission will announce the dates and locations of individual and public hearings on the boundary review in the near future.

For more information about the Agriculture Area review, please contact the commission�s office: