Fraser Valley poultry farms will receive up to $30,000 each from the province for barn upgrades that reduce the risk of avian influenza. Announced August 15, the $2.5 million Novel Tools and Technologies Program will fund tools such as air filters and ultraviolet light systems to ensure they’re receiving clean, virus-free air and water. “Despite …
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Regions selected for livestock tax deferral
Dry conditions in wide swaths of eastern BC means ranchers in the regions can take advantage of the federal livestock tax deferral provision in 2025. The provision is triggered when drought, excess moisture or flooding cause forage shortfalls of 50% or more. On August 18, federal agriculture minister Heath MacDonald announced that the Northern Rockies …
Food costs in Conservative crosshairs
BC food prices rose faster than anywhere else in Canada in the 12 months ended July, according to Statistics Canada data released this week. Supermarket food items cost 3.9% more in the month than a year earlier, versus a national average of 3.4%. Most food items saw price increases greater than the national average, led …
Sweetpea Farms focuses on sustainable meat
VERNON – Kaitlyne Peden wants to make a difference in how people perceive their food. In her first full year operating Sweetpea Farms, the 25-year-old is raising chickens, turkeys and hogs on 15 acres of her parents’ 50-acre property on Westside Road outside Vernon. “I started out because I wanted better quality meat for our family,” …
Apple marketing commission rejected
BC apple growers have voted against establishing an apple marketing commission. Close to 60% of growers who cast ballots did not support the establishment of a commission to regulate and market BC apples. The referendum closed July 21, with 129 of 377 eligible growers participating. The low participation rate of just 34% surprised Lake Country …
New executive director for blueberries
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 …