November 20 marks one year since the sudden death of Country Life in BC editor emeritus David Schmidt at the age of 73.
The face of Country Life in BC for four decades, Schmidt was known for his deep understanding of the industry, his commitment to accurate, insightful reporting, and his passion for sharing the stories of BC farmers and food producers.
A dedicated journalist and mentor to many in the farm press, Schmidt was also a longtime member of the BC Farm Writers Association (BCFWA) and a life member of its national counterpart, the Canadian Farm Writers Federation.
This past spring, the BCFWA formed a committee to explore options for recognizing and honouring Schmidt’s legacy.
Chaired by policy advocate and Country Life in BC columnist Kathleen Gibson, the committee recently determined that an endowment fund held by the Vancouver Foundation bearing Schmidt’s name will be established.
“The David Schmidt Legacy Fund is a good option to help support BC-based journalists, communicators, and storytellers who are dedicated to thoughtful, research-based agricultural reporting – just as David was,” Gibson says.
The finer points of fund administration are being ironed out, and details of the award and opportunities to contribute to the fund will be announced during the Pacific Agriculture Show in Abbotsford at the end of January.
“We will invite the agriculture community as a whole, both farmers, suppliers and the public, to join our efforts to ensure David’s commitment to quality agricultural journalism continues to inspire future generations,” Gibson says.
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