BC sheep producers shipped less wool for less in 2023, reversing strong growth a year earlier. BC producers shipped 5,200 kilograms of raw wool in 2023, according to Statistics Canada data released on April 17. This was down from 18,600 kilograms a year earlier. The shipments fetched an average of 37 cents per kilogram, down …
Agriculture at the polls
The polls will be closed and a new government elected by this time next week, but that gives farmers and other voters time to decide which platform they’re willing to support. A number of faces familiar with the agriculture sector’s priorities are on ballots in BC, including Abbotsford’s Mike De Jong, Chilliwack’s Mark Strahl, Langley’s …
BC growers look beyond tariff turbulence
A new global trade environment erupted last week after weeks of threats, but BC agriculture sector continues to look for solutions despite the real risk of a significant financial hit. Volatile financial markets have raised the spectre of higher borrowing costs, reinforcing a sense of caution that has slowed property investment. Despite an optimistic report …
BCAC holds AGM
The annual general meeting of the BC Agriculture Council this week hailed a “transformative year” that saw BCAC’s recent focus on advocacy bear fruit on several fronts. “Our investment into working proactively on policy development has resulted in the federal and provincial governments increasingly relying upon BCAC for consultation and input,” BCAC executive director Danielle …
Potato acreage declines in 2025
BC potato seeding is down this spring as producers pare acreage. The BC Vegetable Marketing Commission is reporting “a small shift out of potatoes” this spring of approximately 2%. BC growers seeded 5,900 acres last spring and harvested 5,700 acres. This spring, just under 5,800 acres will be seeded. “There has been a decrease in …
Comox Valley sweeps farmers market awards
COURTENAY – Community engagement and involvement are hallmarks of the Comox Valley Farmers Market, its vendors and partners, garnering them the lion’s share of awards at the BC Association of Farmers Markets annual awards ceremony on March 4. The market and its vendors were nominated in seven of the 10 award categories and took home …