It’s a human trait to be sustainable, to sustain our life and our existence.
Our growers help sustain our existence by working with nature to grow one of our most valuable resources, our fresh food.
As growers and business owners we strive not only to be sustainable, but to successfully and conscientiously be sustainable. It’s rewarding when it all works out, but it’s not always easy. There can be many obstacles and challenges along the way. Prices and return on investment are sometimes the biggest challenge along with the weather and labour issues. There can be perfect growing conditions, an ideal business location and great products offered, but if the return isn’t able to comfortably sustain us it makes for some challenges.
Working together as a community, we support each other by sourcing out local products and promoting each other. Recommending our neighbour down the road, shopping in our towns and cities first, then provincially and nationally all help. It’s great how wineries are joining together geographically to promote their area, B&B’s offer local venues to visit and fruit stands and farmers’ market’s cross promote.
Sustainability and loyalty at O&V means our dedication to keeping this 50-year publication alive. Printing using FSC paper (Forest Stewardship Council) with the same B.C. printer for 8 years. Our very talented graphic designer and writers. Loyal advertisers who experience the value, some who have been with the publication since 1959, wow! Gee, when I think about that, there is so much to be grateful!
In this issue we share a couple of very interesting profiles and expert views on sustainability and diversity. As always, I hope you come away with some ideas for your business.
How many of you shopped locally this season at the fruit stands or in stores? Do you tend to use local suppliers when you can, first? I’m curious.
In the next issue: B.C. becomes a GMO Free Zone and the BCFGA President Packinghouse update.