Farmers and Women's Institutes

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Farmers and Women's institutes are rural organizations that may be incorporated or continued under the Farmers and Women's Institutes Act RSBC 1996, Chapter 133 (the Act). 

The Superintendent of Farmers Institutes is appointed by the Minister of Agriculture and Food to administer the Act, along with registration and annual reporting requirements.

The legislation pieces are cross-commodity in nature and are concerned with most aspects of the farming industry and society from a community agriculture perspective.

The Act describes the objects for which farmers and women's institutes may be incorporated, and provides a process for incorporation. It authorizes the appointment of a Superintendent of Farmers Institutes:

B.C. Farmers Institutes

British Columbia Farmers Institutes strive to serve the needs of the local agricultural community, and meet monthly to identify and address issues of interest and concern to local farms, farmers, and agricultural stakeholders.

Members also sit on committees in the wider community, advocating for farmers’ interests at community, municipal, provincial and federal levels.

They offer regular workshops, farm tours, professional development opportunities, farmers markets, and social events to benefit farmers, farms, other agricultural stakeholders and the local community.

For more information about Farmers Institutes please contact AgriService BC.

B.C. Women's Institute

British Columbia Women's Institute offer opportunities for interested women to become informed on a variety of family and community issues by community action and involvement, personal development, and networking with other women.

There are learning opportunities from speakers, workshops, seminars and each other to gain awareness of current social issues, opportunities for self-improvement, leadership skills, self-confidence and new friends. Learn more about B.C.'s Women's Institute

Contact information

How to join
For more information, including how to join or form a farmers or women's institute, contact us below.