BC potato growers are breathing a sigh of relief following a Health Canada decision last week allowing the continued use of clothianidin and thiamethoxam for seed treatments. The two are neonicotinoids, which have come under fire for their negative effects on pollinators and other beneficial insects. The two have proven effective against key pests of …
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BCTF warehouse listed
BC Tree Fruits is moving ahead with the consolidation of facilities and the disposition of surplus assets as it continues to strengthen its financial position. The co-op listed its Kelowna warehouse at 858 Ellis Street with Kelowna brokerage HM Commercial for $20 million on April 1. “Roanoke no longer fits our portfolio,” says BC Tree …
No right to roam
VANCOUVER – The BC Court of Appeal has sided with Douglas Lake Cattle Co., overturning an earlier ruling granting recreational fishers access to Minnie and Stoney Lakes. The new judgment also firmly rejects claims of any public right to cross private lands to access Crown property in BC, often termed “right to roam.” This case …
Province reveals abattoir changes
A newer, simpler licensing system is on the horizon for BC abattoirs. During a meeting with the Small-Scale Livestock Producers Association on March 25, the province revealed that provincially inspected abattoirs (currently holding Class A and B licences) will be consolidated within a single licence class. On-farm slaughter will be allowed across the province, unlike …
BC farms reduce plastic
BC farms have made significant strides towards reducing plastic waste, and new federal funding will help them take additional steps to address the issue. CleanFarms, a manufacturer-led environmental stewardship organization based in Ontario, estimates BC farms generate 3,600 tonnes of waste plastic a year. This is down from nearly 4,000 tonnes in 2012. But the …
Buy BC program delivers
With the application deadline for a new round of Buy BC funding closing next week, many past recipients are giving thanks for the program’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm and Meadery in Abbotsford had to adapt quickly when the pandemic cancelled all workshops, tours and events on the farm. Through Buy …