Jennifer Molgat checks on the progress of the young Chardonnay vines planted at The View Winery located on the East Kelowna Slopes.
B.C. berry, wine grape and tree fruit producers will receive more support to replant their farms, with climate-resilient fruit as the enhanced replant program enters its second year.
Funds are designated to help growers increase production, be more climate resilient and access new markets. The 2025 intake is expected to support the replanting of approximately 809.4 hectares (2,000 acres) with four streams open: berry replant, tree fruit replant, wine grape replant and berry removal.
In Kelowna, The View Winery, a family-owned and fifth-generation estate, received replant funding to switch to a hardier grape that produces a crisp white wine.
“The funding we received through the Enhanced Replant Program enabled us to replace a less cold-hardy grape variety with Chardonnay vines, which are better suited to withstand the extreme cold-weather events that have become more common in our region,” says president Jennifer Molgat.
The BC Fruit Growers’ Association (BCFGA) welcomed the continued funding.
“In this ever-changing and challenging climate and retail environment, it is essential that British Columbia tree fruit growers continue to be on the varietal and productive leading edge,” says Peter Simonsen, BCFGA president.
For approximately 40 years, Kahlon Farms have been growing raspberries, blueberries and strawberries in the Fraser Valley. The family-owned business has replanted new varieties, helping reposition themselves to meet market needs.
“Plant removal and replanting cost can be a significant barrier to converting berry plantings to climate-adaptable, disease-resistant and higher-yielding varieties,” says owner Sukh Kahlon. “The Enhanced Replant Program has played a crucial role in maintaining berry industry competitiveness.”