The Saanich Peninsula has some of the most productive agricultural land in British Columbia. But for years, much of what it produced stopped there at the farm gate, for want of anywhere to take it next.
That is about to change. Crews broke ground on April 20 at 1776/1900 Glamorgan Rd. on the Sandown Lands in North Saanich, beginning construction on a shared-use Harvest Hub facility.
At 1,720 square feet, the Harvest Hub will provide infrastructure for the local food system, helping small- and medium-scale farmers distribute their products. It will also support small-scale food processing, provide a local market and host programs that improve community access to healthy food. The building is designed with future expansion in mind.
Building on ideas first explored in 2010, the Harvest Hub represents a significant step toward strengthening local food systems, supporting North Saanich farmers and enhancing regional collaboration.
“We’re excited for the potential of this project to add value to local farms and farmers. Farming is tough business, especially as rising costs cut into profit margins,” says Dallas Gislason, Executive Director, Regional Economic Development, for SIPP. “The Harvest Hub offers the types of facilities and services that farmers have stated will help create new opportunities to protect margins that might otherwise be carved into by shipping, storage and processing costs.
The $1.25-million project is anchored by a gift agreement of $750,000, a private donation from North Saanich resident Gregory Warner. The District has created a Farm Hub Fund to receive the initial contribution, as well as any additional funds the greater community may wish to contribute for the purpose of constructing a Harvest Hub facility.
Completion of the Harvest Hub is targeted for late 2026.
