The Government of Canada is to invest in British Columbia’s organics industry to allow local farmers to take advantage of new research and growing market opportunities.
Member of Parliament Ed Fast (Abbotsford) announced an investment of up to C$900,000 to help the Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) implement a new and comprehensive market development strategy for the organics industry.
“Our Government knows that farmers are key to Canada’s economy, especially as it begins to show signs of recovery,” said Mr Fast, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.
“Organic agriculture gives farmers new market opportunities that will boost their bottom line. This investment will help build a road map to keep organic farmers on the cutting edge of innovation, improve industry best practices, and make sure farmers can respond to increasing consumer demands for top quality organically grown food.”
The Organic Sector Development Program Strategic Initiative will support five goals: increasing sector capacity, building confidence in certified organic systems and products, promoting environmental stewardship, advancing organic research and innovation, and strengthening organics infrastructure.
This will involve, for example, creating a resource directory for growers, developing research proposals, designing an environmental assessment instrument to be used in the certification process, and educational materials and workshops to encourage farmers to transition to organics.
“This funding will allow us to continue to develop and support organic agriculture in BC,” said Brad Reid, President of COABC.
“From field to plate these funds will aid with organic research and innovation, increase the capacity of the organic sector, and ensure continued confidence in BC certified organic products. We are grateful to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Investment Agriculture Foundation of British Columbia (IAF) for this opportunity.”
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