BC Fruit Growers Association Secures $10 Million Support Fund from Provincial Government
(Kelowna) The British Columbia Fruit Growers Association (BCFGA) is happy to announce that the
provincial government has committed $10 million to support our hardworking tree fruit growers. This vital
funding, announced by Minister of Agriculture and Food Lana Popham, comes as a direct result of our
persistent advocacy and collaborative efforts with the government to address the significant challenges
faced by our sector over the past four years. This announcement follows previous advocacy efforts which
resulted in the enhancement of the AgriStability program and the $5 million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency
program.
“We are incredibly grateful to Premier David Eby and the government for recognizing the importance of
the tree fruit industry in British Columbia and for taking decisive action to support our growers,” said
BCFGA Vice-President, Deep Brar. “This $10 million investment will not only help us recover from the
recent hardships of crop loss, labour shortages, and fluctuating markets but also pave the way for a
resilient and sustainable future.”
The BCFGA has worked tirelessly to represent the interests of our members, bringing to light the urgent
need for assistance in the face of U.S. tariffs that threaten our food resiliency. We are pleased that our
concerted efforts have culminated in this significant financial backing, which will be allocated based on
acreage to ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
Looking ahead, we are optimistic that this funding will enable our growers to rebuild and thrive, securing
the future of B.C.’s tree fruit industry. We urge British Columbians to support our local farmers by
choosing B.C.-grown fruit, especially as we navigate the uncertainties posed by international trade
dynamics.
Minister Popham’s commitment to maintaining a collaborative approach with the tree fruit sector
reassures us that we are on the right path. The BCFGA will continue to work closely with the provincial
government to develop and implement initiatives that further stabilize and strengthen our industry.
“Buying local is more important than ever,” emphasized BCFGA President, Peter Simonsen. “By
supporting B.C. tree fruit growers, you are not only enjoying fresh, high-quality fruit but also contributing to
the resilience of our local food system and the livelihoods of our farmers.”
Together, we can ensure that British Columbia remains a leader in sustainable and resilient agriculture.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
For more information, please contact:
Peter Simonsen, President, 250-488-0363
Deep Brar, Vice-President, 250-462-5687