Governance, investment for growth and development, accessing institutional markets, and land management were among the topics covered at the inaugural BC Agriculture and Food Co-op Conference in Kamloops, March 24-25. Hosted by the BC Co-operative Association, the event attracted about 120 growers, processors, retailers, academics, government representatives, policymakers and others came together to raise awareness …
New farm building codes
The new model building codes for farm buildings have finally been released. Technical experts in Ottawa signed off on the updates last summer, which represent the first overhaul of the model code for farm buildings since 1995. The model code sets the baseline for updates to provincial building codes, and recognize the fact that barn …
Broader tolerance for culls
Potatoes will be included in the next phase of a federal review of grading standards for fresh fruits and vegetables, and industry representatives at the Canadian Spud Congress this week think consumers are willing to be a bit more forgiving of imperfections. “There’s a lot more acceptance for whatever the farmer grows when you’re in …
Vet shortage persists
High veterinary school tuition costs and competition for spots pose challenges for students and producers. The situation is so dire that some Prairie producers cannot access vets to regularly check herd health, says WestGen Group CEO Chris Parry, speaking at the organization’s annual general meeting, March 22. The situation is one that’s been ongoing in …
Investment intentions dip
Weaker spending in the horticulture sector is forecast to result in lower spending in the BC agriculture sector this year, according to Statistics Canada. Capital expenditures topped $601 million last year, according to federal estimates. This year, spending will drop to $537.9 million. The survey indicates that construction spending will take the greatest hit, inching …
Small-scale producers voice concerns
An industry survey by the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association has identified access to slaughter as the number one challenge producers across the province face. SSMPA wrapped up a province-wide sector survey earlier this year and presented the findings to approximately 72 viewers in a March 15 webinar. The survey aimed to ensure that challenges to …