Boards & Commissions
Agricultural Advisory Committee
On October 12, 2004, the Bernards Township Committee created the
Bernards Township Agricultural Task Force through adoption of Resolution
#040390. The Committee indicated that the Agricultural Task Force
was to consist of four active farmers, one resident non farmer,
a member of the Township Committee, a member of the Planning Board,
Township Engineer, the Planning Board Planner, liaisons from the
Rutgers Cooperative Extension and Somerset County Agricultural Development
Board. The term of the Agricultural Task Force extended through
12/31/2004.
Beginning in September and extending through December 2004, the
Bernards Agricultural Task Force (ATF) convened a series of meetings
to respond to the Township Committee's request for a report on
farmland preservation in Bernards Township. The ATF investigated
whether farmland preservation through the purchase of development
easements is feasible and appropriate in Bernards Township.
Download
the Bernards Township Agricultural Task Force Report & Recommendations
to the Bernards Township Committee.
Mission Statement:
To support the Agricultural community and its continued contribution
to the quality of life in Bernards Township, by preserving agricultural
land, providing advocacy for agricultural viability and promoting
public education.
Goals:
- Identify issues facing local agricultural enterprises and provide
recommendations for resolution
- Continue the sustainable use of economically viable farmland
for production through farmland preservation options
- Promote local agriculture through municipal activities
- Provide education to agricultural community to meet future
economic challenges
- Promote community interest in agriculturally related activities
- Foster responsible stewardship of land
- Promote communication and cooperation among farmers and the
public
- Communicate, educate and promote contributions made by agriculture
to the local community
Membership:
The Agricultural Advisory Committee is made up of five members
and two alternate members. In addition, the Agricultural Advisory
Committee includes staff, consultants and liaisons to county and
state organizations appointed at the beginning of each year when
it reorganizes.
Meeting Schedule:
The Agricultural Advisory Committee meets on the following dates at 7:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building. Additional
meetings may be scheduled.
- January 21, 2010-
- April 22, 2010
- July 22, 2010
- October 21, 2010
Contact:
AgriculturalAdvisory@bernards.org