When public health restrictions to fight COVID-19 came into effect earlier this year, wine production was named an essential service alongside other agricultural enterprises. Now, the province’s wineries are emphasizing their connection with primary production through a new name for their trade organization, Wine Growers BC. The name change was endorsed at the annual general …
NEWS
Under one roof
VICTORIA – The BC Ministry of Agriculture is taking over meat inspection in the province on December 1, consolidating oversight of the sector. “Effective December 1, 2020, all slaughter activity licensed under the Meat Inspection Regulation for class A, B, D, and E meat slaughter licenses will now be regulated under the Ministry of Agriculture,” …
Field days feeling the pinch of social distancing rules
DELTA – Many farmers block off their calendars for the field days that give them a chance to share information, learn and socialize. This year will be different, however, as ongoing restrictions designed to curb COVID-19 has changed the format of most field days. Alexis Arthur, owner of Pacific Forage Bag Supply Ltd. in Delta, …
Changes to land commission kick in this fall
BURNABY – Changes to how the Agricultural Land Commission does business at the end of this month are raising questions about what the future holds. This summer has seen at least two municipalities move forward with exclusion applications in advance of new rules that take effect September 30. In the six weeks ended August 19, …
Sheep producers told to bear with wildlife
METCHOSIN – A black bear has been killing sheep in the Metchosin area on Vancouver Island since July and unlike previous occasions, the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) is stepping back and asking farmers to step up prevention efforts. Twenty-one sheep from various farms have been killed to date. Ten of the bear kills were …
SAWP requirements waived
With the scramble for harvest labour continuing across BC, many growers are looking ahead to what the next season holds. To address the issues associated with labour, Ottawa is now accepting applications from employers for seasonal workers required in 2021. The minimum recruitment requirements for several occupations have been waived to improve employers’ access to …