CLARKWATCH: Follow news and updates regarding sanctions on Mayor Clark.

Province tables legislation to support local food producers

Apr 5, 2018 | 5:25 PM

EDMONTON — The provincial government is looking to give a boost to locally-grown food across Alberta.

The NDP tabled legislation on Thursday that would create a local food council to help address challenges facing the industry.

If passed, the legislation would also adopt the federal government’s standard for organic foods.

The move is in line with other provinces such as B.C. and Quebec.

“Alberta has some of the best farmers and food producers in the world,” said Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, in a news release. “Our government is stepping up to show their support for this industry and the people who put food on our table.

“This new legislation will help this growing industry find new markets, create new jobs and further diversify the provincial economy.”

The local food sector in Alberta is valued at $1 billion.

The legislation also includes a proposed Alberta Local Food Week, which would be held the third week of August to celebrate and promote local foods. The week would coincide with Alberta Open Farm Days.