Sudeshna Nambiar is the new executive director of the BC Blueberry Council. Nambiar officially steps into the role August 11, following two years as chief operating officer at the Coaching Association of Canada. “As we navigate complex challenges and new opportunities in our sector, Sudeshna’s vision, passion and bold thinking will be instrumental in shaping …
CROPS
On the rebound
KELOWNA – Fruit growers in the Okanagan have suffered at the hands of Mother Nature over the past four years, but she just might be smiling on them this season. “This is very good weather that is conducive to growing good quality fruit,” says Sam DiMaria of Bella Rosa Orchards in Kelowna. “From my perspective …
Showdown looms over co-op’s surplus
A year after the BC Tree Fruits Cooperative shut its doors, work towards winding up the operation continues. While most of the assets have been sold, what happens to surplus funds leftover after its debts are paid remains a live issue. Creditor payments are expected to be finalized by late August, leaving an estimated $17 …
Biobest acquires North Vancouver’s Ecoation
North Vancouver-based agritech start-up Ecoation Innovative Solutions Inc. is now part of Biobest. Biobest purchased Ecoation’s business, certain assets and acquired key personnel as part of the deal, which completed July 17. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Ecoation will operate as part of Biobest, which acquired an equity interest in Ecoation four years …
Hazelnuts enjoy strong pricing as global production falls short
ABBOTSFORD – Production volumes are rising as BC hazelnut orchards mature following replanting with varieties resistant to Eastern Filbert Blight. “We’re about 10 years in after replanting … and we’re starting to see a lot of good yields,” says Steve Hope, co-owner of Fraser Valley Hazelnuts in Chilliwack, who delivered the hazelnut market outlook during …
Apple commission vote underway
BC apples growers should know within two weeks whether or not a proposed apple marketing commission will move forward. A vote on the proposal was announced in late May, and is set to conclude later this month. “The vote closes at midnight on July 14, and unless there is an extension, the results should be …