By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
BC tree-fruit growers are getting more support from the provincial government to help fortify their orchards against the increasing incidence of extreme weather.
The new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program is aimed at helping fund measures such as protective covers, energy-efficient heaters and wind machines to help during periods of extreme cold, as well as canopy sprinklers and shade protection to help ward off the effects of extreme heat.
The program will provide 80 per cent cost-share funding for eligible projects up to a maximum of $100,000 per farm business.
“Last summer, British Columbians saw almost no local cherries available and missed out on having delicious Okanagan peaches to enjoy,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food.
“We know these climate impacts will continue, which is why we’re helping growers with a new program so their crops and businesses become more resilient in the face of increasingly challenging growing conditions.”
Noting this funding is a significant step in further building resiliency in the sector, Deep Brar, vice-president, B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, and a tree-fruit grower said the funding will help farmers prepare their orchards for the challenges posed by extreme weather.
This will ensure that “families and communities can continue to enjoy our locally grown peaches, cherries, and apples” he added.
“The climate has been exceptionally tough on our growers for the past few years, with devastating impacts from heat domes and cold snaps,” Brar said noting farmers are looking forward to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the tree fruit industry in “remains strong and sustainable for generations to come.”
The province noted that multiple growers may also jointly apply for a project that benefits more than one producer, such as a wind machine that could be used on multiple properties.
As CEO of one of BC’s largest cherry producers, David Geen said the industry is witnessing an increasingly volatile climate which is “stretching the ability of growers to adapt”.
“Climate mitigation strategies, such as frost-control materials, installation of wind machines, and researching and developing hardier genetics and varieties can all contribute to a more stable cherry industry. It is great that the B.C. government is listening to grower concerns and providing funding for these industry endeavours,” Green added.
Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture and MLA for Vernon-Lumby also noted the struggles growers are grappling with at both ends of the temperature spectrum following conversations he’s had with growers.
“Climate change is a real challenge for our farming communities and this new program will help growers with projects and equipment that support their farms’ profitability, resiliency and sustainable food production for the years ahead.”
The program was developed with input from the B.C.Fruit Growers Association and the B.C. Cherry Association. The program was announced in August 2024 as one part of government’s efforts to help tree-fruit growers through challenges faced by their industry.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food says applications are now being accepted and will continue until funds are fully committed and Ministry staff are able to answer questions regarding eligible activities, costs and/or the application process.
Applicants can contact [email protected] with questions about the program or to receive support in developing their applications.
