Photo by BC Government
Honourable Lana Popham
Agriculture Minister Lana Popham says her ears are wide open when it comes to revamping the agriculture industry in BC.
Popham spent two days in meetings with Okanagan tree fruit growers in March, getting their input on changes she’s making to regulations, support programs and marketing programs.
“Agriculture has a way of bringing people together and I have been sharing my exciting ideas to Grow BC, Feed BC and Buy BC,” Popham said. “However, when you walk into a room and a local legend like orchardist Fred Steele is there, it is time to listen. I want to thank Fred and all the growers in the Okanagan for their leadership and advice during my visit.”
Among other programs, Popham says there’s more money and support for the annual replant program, for new equipment and infrastructure, research, and marketing.
The BC government added $300,000 to the replant fund for this year, and created a $5 million Tree Fruit Competitiveness Fund that was announced at the BC Fruit Growers’ Association annual general meeting.