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raspberry
Things are looking up for 2013 with the push for a national promotional council and optimism for better weather and market pricing, despite the disappointing 2012 raspberry season.
“Things look good for this year so far,” says David Mutz, Raspberry Growers Association president.
According to Jesse Brar of Pacific Coast Fruit in Abbotsford, with inventories of 2012 fruit now sold out, there is an expectation of better pricing for 2013 berries.
The national council, which is the brainchild of the association, is moving ahead quickly. The 70% vote in favour of forming a red raspberry national council conducted earlier this year at the 2013 Pacific Agriculture Show was a positive step.
The Farm Products Council of Canada (FPCC) has agreed to move forward with the association’s proposal and was expected to hold a pre-hearing conference on June 11 to determine future steps and requirements.
“We, at the (association) board are pleased,” notes Sharmin Gamiet, executive director for the Raspberry Growers Association.
Opportunities for stakeholders to give their opinions and ask questions will be permitted at sittings held in Ottawa and Abbotsford in October and November. Following the sittings, the panel will make recommendations to the FPCC. The council will then provide a recommendation to the agriculture minister.
