Context
Since 2013, the RCM of Argenteuil has owned a 245-hectare piece of farmland located in Brownsburg-Chatham. Of this land, about 45 hectares are suitable for cultivation, while the rest is primarily forested. At present, two initiatives—each with their own distinct mission but coordinated by the RCM—occupy roughly one hectare:
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The Agroforestry Laboratory
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The Community Agriculture Project
As part of the revision of its Agricultural Zone Development Plan (PDZA), the RCM of Argenteuil and its partners have identified eight promising projects that address the region’s key agricultural priorities. Among them is the Agricultural and Agroforestry Platforms Project. It is under this project that the RCM aims to conduct a strategic reflection on the current and future uses of its farmland, while also exploring governance models that can strengthen and ensure the long-term sustainability of its community agriculture project.
To support this process, a mandate has been given to CISA so that the expertise of its team can guide the development of this strategic reflection.
Project Objectives
With CISA’s support, the objectives are to:
- Produce a diagnostic portrait of the current and potential uses of the farmland.
- Develop scenarios for future land use.
- Identify governance models that could strengthen and sustain the community agriculture project, while co-constructing a shared vision in collaboration with local partners.