KELOWNA – Of all the challenges farmers face – from unpredictable weather to finding workers – one of the greatest often occurs when it’s time to transition the farm. Whether a farm is passed to a family member, sold to an outside buyer or placed on the auction block, planning an exit strategy should begin …
CROPS
Strong growth for organics
A new report by the Canadian Organic Trade Association pegs the value of the BC organic food and beverage market at $508.1 million in 2020, a 54% increase from $329.2 million in 2017. “Organic producers can be proud of participating in a growing sector, particularly when agriculture has faced many challenges in recent years,” Organic …
Co-op meets with growers
A series of public engagement sessions are giving BC Tree Fruits Co-op members an opportunity to comment on plans to consolidate packing operations in Oliver and sell off assets in Kelowna and Lake Country. An in-person meeting takes place in Oliver today, with a second session set to take place in Kelowna in the days …
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 …
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, …