FAQs

What is Horse Lake Community Farm Cooperative?

Horse Lake Community Farm Cooperative (HLCFC) was incorporated in September 2006. The Co-op was formed to acquire and steward the “Betty Place,” a 133-acre working farm located at the east end of Horse Lake in British Columbia’s South Cariboo region. Its purpose is to ensure community ownership of this land while protecting its agricultural use for future generations.

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What are the Co-op's goals?

The Co-op's goals are to:

  1. Preserve Local Farmland – We are dedicated to conserving farmland for future generations, ensuring it remains a thriving space for sustainable agriculture.
  2. Build a Strong Community – Our farm is more than just a place to grow food; it’s a hub for people passionate about protecting the environment, supporting local food systems, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
  3. Support New Farmers – We create opportunities for farmers who may not otherwise have access to land, providing them with support and space to grow their businesses and contribute to a more resilient food system.
  4. Strengthen Local Food Production – By encouraging ethical and organic farming, we help provide fresh, nutritious food while promoting responsible agricultural practices.
  5. Educate and Inspire – Through workshops, hands-on experiences, and community events, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of sustainable farming and its role in a healthier future.

Why was it set up as a cooperative?

A cooperative is a member-owned and democratically governed organization, where each member has one vote regardless of investment level. This structure ensures shared decision-making, transparency, and long-term accountability to the community it serves.

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What would I get as a member?

The Co-op welcomes members who are interested in actively supporting its goals and long-term vision. Membership provides access to co-op grown food, opportunities to participate in land-based activities, involvement in governance and decision-making, and a meaningful role in strengthening local food security and community resilience.

Do I have to become a member to buy a share?

Yes. Co-op shares are membership shares, and ownership is limited to individuals or groups who hold active membership in the Co-op.

What do I have to do to become a member?

Prospective members must complete a share subscription agreement. Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors, and membership becomes active upon approval and completion of the share purchase.

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How much is a share, and can I pay for it over time?

A membership share is $5,000. Payment arrangements may be considered at the discretion of the directors; however, the full share value is ultimately required upon approval. Shares are redeemable upon withdrawal from membership, subject to Co-op policies.

How many shares can I buy?

The Co-op’s Rules require each member to purchase at least one share. There is no formal upper limit on the number of shares a member may hold. However, all membership applications and share purchases are subject to approval by the Board of Directors in accordance with the Co-op’s Rules and governance policies.

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Can I buy shares for my children?

Individuals aged 16 and older may hold shares directly as members. For younger children, shares may be purchased and held in trust by a parent or guardian until the child reaches eligible age.

Is there any financial return on the money placed in shares?

At present, the Co-op does not provide a financial return on shares. Historically, and in line with cooperative principles, any surplus has been reinvested into the Co-op’s operations and long-term development. Any future consideration of member returns would be determined by the Board and approved by the membership.

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Can more than one member own a share?

Yes, shares can be held jointly by two or more members. Examples include friends sharing the cost of a share, couples putting both their names on a share or adding children (16+) to your share. While all joint shareholders are considered to be members, the joint shareholders only have one joint vote. That is, if there are three members jointly holding a share the three members would need to agree on how to vote. At an AGM for example, if the three members attending could not agree on how to vote the Chair would consider the joint members to have abstained.

Contact

For questions or membership inquiries, email: info@horselakefarmcoop.ca

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See our Downloads page for documents.