One trip through British Columbia and you will realize that BC is home to some of world’s best orchards and vineyards and Canadian government has always extended their support in promoting BC’s Orchards and Vineyards. Recently, Minister of Agriculture and Lands Steve Thomson and Member of Parliament Ron Cannan (Kelowna – Lake Country), presented a cheque to the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association for $591,426 as part of the Orchards and Vineyards Transition program.

In 2007, the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia entered into a Contribution Agreement for the Orchards and Vineyards Transition Program to help the tree fruit and grape industries adapt to industry pressures and changing markets. The federal government contributed $4.98 million towards strategic plans and removal costs and the province provided $3 million through a grant to the Investment Agriculture Foundation for an orchard replant program. The term of the agreement is for four years starting in fiscal 2007-08 to 2010-11.

With support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association initiated a long-term strategic planning process in 2006. The industry strategy has resulted in packinghouse restructuring, better quality control of packed product, new labour initiatives, industry participation in the school fruit and vegetable nutritional program and Eat and Drink B.C., expanded promotion of ambrosia apples in U.S. markets, continuing replant efforts, the launching of new cherry and apple varieties and the creation of an industry innovation fund.

Visit BC’s orchards and vineyards and we are sure you’ll be impressed. Plan your next BC trip with BC Travel Guide