The future of proceedings against those charged of abusing chickens in 2017 could be decided this afternoon. An arraignment hearing – where those charged plead innocent or guilty, and opt for trial by judge or jury – was scheduled for July in Chilliwack, but was put over till August 28 in Surrey. Defense counsel requested …
NEWS
BCAC defends pot growers
Cannabis should be treated just like any other agricultural crop, according to the BC Agriculture Council, which is opposing a bid by Metro Vancouver to regulate odours from pot producers and processors. Metro Vancouver launched a public consultation in June on the proposed cannabis emissions regulation. The consultation wraps up September 30. “Cannabis production has …
Where’s the beef?
Canadians who’ve tried plant-based burgers like the taste, but a significant proportion question whether they can stomach the cost. Survey results released this week by the Angus Reid Institute indicate 80% of consumers who’ve tried them enjoyed the taste of plant-based meats. However, 41% say the meat alternatives gave “poor” or “terrible” value for money. …
Clean plants build confidence
A certified supply of clean plants was the key to cleaning up New Zealand vineyards and keeping vine diseases at bay, says Vaughn Bell, senior scientist with the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research. Bell was in the Okanagan last week as the featured speaker in this year’s Triggs International Premium Vinifera Lecture …
Cherry exports get boost
Rains have delivered significant damage to the BC cherry crop this summer, limiting the volume of fruit heading to market. But this week brought $241,000 worth of federal support for international marketing efforts under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriMarketing Program. The funding, announced by federal justice minister David Lametti during a visit to Kelowna on …
Cash for innovation
Projects focused on bees, barrels and mushroom harvesting have won $150,000 in the province’s second Agritech Innovation Challenge. The challenges three winners were announced August 2 following an assessment by Innovate BC and the BC Ministry of Agriculture. The winning projects each receive $50,000, mentorship and the support needed to validate relevant market demand. The …