Ottawa is looking for BC farmers to tell them which way the wind is blowing – literally. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada is seeking agroclimate impact reporters to complete a monthly survey regarding weather conditions in their area. The survey takes less than five minutes to complete and helps federal staff identify climate and weather-related risks …
NEWS
Province talks meat licensing
Small-scale meat producers have won an extension to the latest provincial consultation on meat inspection regulations. The new exercise requests proposals for new Class D regions or subregions, and began with outreach to local governments on June 3. The initial deadline was July 19, but the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association (SSMPA) fought to have that …
Armyworm precautions urged
The province is asking North Okanagan producers affected by Western yellowstriped armyworm to help prevent spreading the pest. BC Ministry of Agriculture staff in Kelowna reported that a load of cut hay infested with armyworms was sold and shipped from a farm in the North Okanagan. The ministry did not provide details on where the …
Free trade ratification delayed
Summer, and the livin’ is easy – but the new free trade deal awaits the fall. Ratification of the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement that’s set to replace the existing North American Free Trade Agreement now seems set to be delayed till November, following the failure of US lawmakers to advance ratification of the treaty prior to their …
Marketing board names new entrant winners
ABBOTSFORD—The BC Milk Marketing Board has chosen the first three successful applicants in its New Entrant Program. After clearing the waitlist in its previous Graduated Entry Program, the BCMMB introduced the NEP in August 2018. Ninety-five applicants paid the $250 fee to be included in the first draw, held in February 2019. A random draw …
Vineyard damage lowers expectations
Okanagan wineries hope growing conditions this summer will deliver a decent grape crop, despite delayed budbreak in vineyards across the Okanagan that hampered vine development. BC Grapegrowers Association members discussed the problem at a field day in May. “Some vines in some vineyards saw poor bud break this year, with erratic and late development,” says …