Town Agricultural Commissions

Agricultural Commissions

A town Agricultural Commission is an appointed town standing committee whose members are primarily engaged in farming and represent the farm community, or are town residents who encourage and promote agricultural-based business. It has no regulatory authority and acts as an advisory group to other local boards.

Since 2005, 121 towns in Massachusetts have created Agriculture Commissions to help farmers articulate their needs to their neighbors and town officials. CISA played an important role raising awareness about agricultural commissions by helping to disseminate information created by the MA Department of Agricultural Resources and hosting information sessions in communities around the Pioneer Valley.

Tipsheets:

A Handbook for Agricultural Commissions
Massachusetts Dept of Agriculture Resources
More information on starting an agricultural commission in your town.