KELOWNA – The province’s biggest fruit co-op is facing a dramatic shakeup, as turnover pares both the executive team and key staff In November, BC Tree Fruits Cooperative’s board decided not to renew the management contract of CEO Stan Swales, who stepped into the role in November 2016. CFO Warren Everton also left to work …
Growers pin hopes on Columbia River update
KELOWNA – Negotiations to update the 55-year-old Columbia River Treaty between Canada and the US are ramping up. Ratified in 1964, the treaty’s main purpose was to optimize power generation and flood control for both Canada and the US. Three dams were constructed in Canada: Duncan in 1967, Arrow/Hugh Keenleyside in 1968 and Mica in …
Capital Region considers compensation cuts
VICTORIA – A backlash from farmers has stalled a proposal to amend the Capital Regional District (CRD) animal control bylaw to eliminate compensation for livestock killed by unidentified dogs. “I received a lot of feedback from the farm community,” says Mike Hicks, director for the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area who originally proposed the amendment. …
Microgreen grower attracts far-flung following
SALMON ARM – A different kind of hydroponic grow-op has set up shop in the Shuswap, looking to meet the demand for leafy greens. Living Leaf Growers started producing microgreens in a corner of Salmon Arm’s Westgate Public Market late last year, planting its first crop in October and harvesting its third in early January. …
It’s show time!
The largest agricultural trade show in BC kicks off in Abbotsford this week for the 21st year. The Pacific Agriculture Show runs at the Tradex in Abbotsford, January 24-26. “The focus this year is on technology,” says show coordinator Jim Shepard, who says there will be close to 300 exhibitors at this year’s show. These …
Piece rates, taxes increase
Just weeks into the new year, BC farmers may be starting to feel the pinch. One thing’s for certain: their pennies won’t. Various government policies designed to part farmers and their money have kicked in, raising the cost of doing business in BC. Piece rates increased on January 1, six months after an increase to …