Dean Murdock Saanich Councillor

Saanich bans use of genetically modified seeds
By Kyle Slavin, Saanich News

Saanich council took a united stance Monday night in opposing the use of genetically modified seed crops in the municipality.

Councillors argued that the motion, which also included writing a letter to various senior levels of government asking for mandatory labelling of genetically modified foods, was the best way to protect local organic farms.

Saanich landowner feeling henpecked
Saanich News October 17, 2012

The chickens aren’t coming home to roost, yet.

A Saanich family’s plan to open a chicken farm on their agricultural land has hit a stumbling block at the municipal level.

Gordon Alberg said his hands were tied after Saanich council twice denied his family’s request to developing housing on property at 1516 Mount Douglas X Rd.

So the family – Gord and his siblings Don Alberg and Florence Davis – went the route council suggested, and proposed a poultry operation that would house 12,000 birds in four barns.

Saanich hosts local food fest
Saanich News September 25, 2012

The Healthy Saanich advisory committee will host an event next weekend to help promote locally grown food.

“It’s an opportunity to showcase local food and local food producers. There will also be opportunities for people to learn more about growing their own food in their own yard or garden,” said Coun. Dean Murdock, who chairs the committee.

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
November 15, 2011

Murdock wants Saanich’s green roofs for urban farming

Victoria – Saanich Councillor Dean Murdock thinks one of the best places to grow crops in Saanich could be up on the roof.

Murdock wants to see Saanich Council introduce rooftop gardens as a suggested amenity for large-scale developments in major centre development permit guidelines.

“We can turn acres of asphalt into green space and vegetable gardens,” he said. “Green roofs allow urban residents to grow their own food, and help reduce our carbon footprint.”

Saanich Council has taken another step toward supporting local farms, increasing our food security, and making local food more accessible.

Councillors unanimously voted to create a Local Food Procurement Policy. This will give preference to local food producers when purchasing food for municipal events and food services. So, instead of buying tomatoes or cherries that travel all the way from California or Mexico, we’ll get them from Saanich or Vancouver Island farmers.