Potatoes will be included in the next phase of a federal review of grading standards for fresh fruits and vegetables, and industry representatives at the Canadian Spud Congress this week think consumers are willing to be a bit more forgiving of imperfections. “There’s a lot more acceptance for whatever the farmer grows when you’re in …
Vet shortage persists
High veterinary school tuition costs and competition for spots pose challenges for students and producers. The situation is so dire that some Prairie producers cannot access vets to regularly check herd health, says WestGen Group CEO Chris Parry, speaking at the organization’s annual general meeting, March 22. The situation is one that’s been ongoing in …
Investment intentions dip
Weaker spending in the horticulture sector is forecast to result in lower spending in the BC agriculture sector this year, according to Statistics Canada. Capital expenditures topped $601 million last year, according to federal estimates. This year, spending will drop to $537.9 million. The survey indicates that construction spending will take the greatest hit, inching …
Small-scale producers voice concerns
An industry survey by the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association has identified access to slaughter as the number one challenge producers across the province face. SSMPA wrapped up a province-wide sector survey earlier this year and presented the findings to approximately 72 viewers in a March 15 webinar. The survey aimed to ensure that challenges to …
Tractor training highlights safety
Two years of public health protocols have emphasized our obligations not only to ourselves but to our communities. This year’s promotion of farm safety during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (March 13-19) has a similar emphasis. Spearheaded by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, the 2022 campaign focuses not just on practical safety advice and awareness, but …
Wage rates increase
With inflation at its highest rate since the 1980s, a higher cost of living is also inflating the notion of a so-called living wage. Once pegged at $15 an hour, it’s now $16.75 in the agricultural heartland of the Fraser Valley and $18.49 in the Okanagan. BC made good on the recommendation of the Fair …