B.C. vineyards, orchards get help to replant for changing climate

The B.C. government has announced a new enhanced replant program to help grape and tree fruit growers make their farms and orchards more resilient to climate change.

Premier David Eby said the program will provide as much as $70 million to allow producers of grapes, cherries, tree fruit and berries, to replace damaged, diseased and low-producing vines, plants and trees with varieties that produce in-demand, premium fruit.

“We’re taking action to support farmers who have been hit hard by a changing climate with a new task force and replant program, which will help about 1,000 more growers revitalize their farms and protect their businesses. The security of our food and our economy depend on the strength and resilience of our farmers,” Eby said.

Government staff will work with industry associations to develop planting guidelines to ensure replanted varieties can perform better when faced with climate change, pests, disease and market pressures.

“Producers will make replant choices based on the best available agronomic science to ensure they can handle extreme-weather events,” Agriculture and Food Minister Pam Alexis said.

Application information will be made available once the guidelines are set.

“This investment is an essential piece of the puzzle that will help our growers adapt their orchards to plant more efficient and productive orchards that can weather the storms of climate change,” Peter Simonsen, president, BC Fruit Growers’ Association, said.

“B.C. cherries are the best in the world and this funding is a significant step toward making sure our hard-working growers can continue to provide the best cherries to British Columbians and the world. Replant funds are an excellent long-term strategy to support a strong fruit sector,” Sukhpaul Bal, farmer and president of the BC Cherry Association, said.

The province is also establishing a B.C. wine-grape sector task force to develop a road map for an economically viable B.C. wine industry. The task force will run for two years and provide recommendations to producers and the industry about how to remain profitable and resilient. It will be made up of Canadian and international experts with members to be identified this year.

Additionally, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General is working with manufacturers, with a specific focus on wineries and other liquor-making sites, to support better experiences for visitors and promote tourism.

The new changes in development include:

• supporting better guided-tour experiences that allow people to sit and enjoy a glass of wine while on a tour;
• allowing sales in more places on site, including on tours;
• allowing more flexibility around sampling so manufacturers can customize sampling experiences; and
• allowing manufacturers to sell their product in picnic areas and host people more effectively.

Miles Prodan, president and CEO, Wine Growers BC, said the ongoing climate change effects on B.C. farmers, highlighted by recent freeze events, are real and directly impact individuals and families in the wine industry.

“We look forward to working with the ministry to ensure B.C. vineyards come back better than ever to continue to produce the quality wine consumers have come to expect and that the B.C. wine industry continues to be a significant driver for the B.C. economy,” Prodan said.