Annie’s Family Farm, located on the lush outskirts of North Cowichan in the Cowichan Valley, participated in the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) Program in 2025. Utilizing this no-cost, confidential assessment, John & Telia collaborated with their local EFP Advisor to identify opportunities to improve their farm’s impact on the land and water.
“We chose to complete an Environmental Farm Plan early on because we wanted a structured way to assess risks, identify priorities, and make informed decisions as new farmers. The EFP process helped us step back and look at our farm holistically; from soil and water management, to livestock care, infrastructure placement, and record-keeping.”
With the support and guidance of their EFP Advisor, the farm completed their EFP workbook, which helped them recognize key areas for improvement, such as riparian protection, nutrient management, and efficient irrigation. Together, they developed a practical action plan that identified opportunities to protect the natural resources on their property and improve the productivity and resilience of their farm.
John & Telia reflect on their experience working with the EFP Program:
“One of the biggest benefits of completing the EFP was how it supported our planning and infrastructure decisions. It helped us think through drainage, runoff, and nutrient management before expanding production, and it gave us a clear framework for improving how we manage inputs, waste, and on-farm activities.
As new farmers, having that guidance early on gave us confidence that we were building things properly rather than retrofitting later. The EFP also strengthened our record-keeping practices and prepared us to align with other programs and funding opportunities. It has directly supported our ability to pursue additional [cost-share] funded projects and work toward longer-term goals such as organic certification and improved environmental stewardship across the farm.
Overall, completing the Environmental Farm Plan helped us establish a strong foundation in our first year! One that balances productivity with care for the land, water, and ecosystems we depend on. We see it as a living document that will continue to guide our decision-making as the farm grows.”
Funding for the Environmental Farm Plan program has been provided by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a $3.5-billion, 5-year agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. The program is delivered by IAF.
