The BC Milk Marketing Board has announced the 10 finalists for this year’s new entrant program.
The board received 66 completed applications by the February 11 deadline, down from 79 last year. The shortlist of 10 candidates included nine men, one womn, those with a family connection to the sector and newcomers.
The shortlist was randomly chosen via an online generator operated by Della Oberhoffner, general manager of the BC Council of Marketing Boards, and observed by a BC Milk staff member and a third-party observer.
The shortlist of 10 candidates will be narrowed to three by the selection committee. All 10 finalists must provide required documentation by June 1 to move onto the interview stage.
The three new entrants selected must begin milk production by December 31, 2023.
BC Milk’s new entrant program provides 15 kilograms of continuous daily quota and up to 8 kgs of matching CDQ provided on a 1:1 ratio basis throughout the 10-year program. Some of the goals the board looks to achieve through the NEP are renewal, sustainability and addressing the consolidation of farms in the province.
The board’s next NEP draw will take place in early 2023.
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