According to iNFOnews, the BC Government is taking steps to assist fruit growers who have suffered significant losses for the third consecutive year due to erratic weather patterns. While specific funding allocations for growers remain uncertain, the government aims to support them in adapting to future weather challenges.

A sudden cold spell in January severely impacted cherry, peach, and other stone fruit growers, marking the third consecutive year of substantial losses for many. Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Monashee, described the financial assistance as an investment in local growers and farmers, focusing on innovation, climate resilience, and production enhancement.

However, the exact amount earmarked for growers remains unclear. Agriculture and Food Minister Alexis Pam highlighted a crop renewal program aimed at replacing vulnerable crops with more resilient varieties, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring food security.

Additionally, the government encourages growers to enroll in crop insurance plans, particularly following the $27 million in losses reported by grape producers in 2023. Despite these measures, Kelowna-Mission MLA Renee Merrifield expressed skepticism about the efficacy of insurance in the face of increasingly severe climate events.

Merrifield criticized the government’s response, noting that farmers have faced four consecutive challenging seasons without adequate support. She underscored the need for a long-term strategy focused on building resilience and innovation within the farming sector, lamenting the current lack of sufficient funding and support models.

Source: iNFOnews

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