Processing capacity is essential to local food security, bringing local production across the finish line onto the plates of consumers. While the province’s agriculture ministry has invested in a food hub network, smaller initiatives are also afoot to support the crop and livestock producers. On August 23, Hornby Island Farmland Trust Society was awarded a …
Province’s peach supply down
Cold winter weather and the cooler spring have profoundly affected the BC peach crops, with some producers reporting little or no production this year. “A couple of the early varieties had blossoms and got pollinated. So, we had peaches on three types, a very light crop, but they are all finished now,” says Jennay Oliver …
Researchers probe blueberry disease
A team of researchers is looking to uncover the mysterious cause of a new disease damaging blueberry fields across the province. Over the last few years, farmers have tested plants showing symptoms of disease for blueberry scorch and other diseases. However, more and more plants are testing negative while symptoms persist, leaving producers unsure how …
Billion-dollar wine boost
The economic impact of BC’s wine industry increased by a billion dollars in the five years prior to the pandemic before crashing as public health restrictions slammed the brakes on public events and social gatherings. According to a study Wine Growers Canada and its member organizations including Wine Growers BC (WGBC) released earlier this month, …
Fossens recognized for innovative practices
ROCK CREEK – Ranch sustainability depends on three key strengths, according to the Fossen family: innovation, improvement and involvement. The family’s commitment to all three won them recognition this year with the presentation in June of the BC Cattlemen’s Association’s Ranch Sustainability Award. “For us, the award is not about one specific project,” says Doug …
Orchard sector pilots new job-matching website
KELOWNA – Fruit growers who employ temporary workers each summer may find a phone app being trialed this season will help fill the gap left by the retirement of long-time BC Fruit Growers Association liaison Ron Forrest. “Over the last 15 years, Ron and other BCFGA team members have welcomed, provided safety and orientation training, …