The British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture has introduced a $10 million fund to assist tree fruit farmers in light of proposed U.S. tariffs. The fund aims to support farmers with one-time payments, applicable for tools, training, farm improvement capital, debt repayment, and wages.
Eligible farmers, approximately 720 in number, can receive payments based on acreage, capped at 28.3 hectares. This initiative coincides with U.S. tariff threats, which are currently on hold until March 4, aligning with the province's budget release.
Recent extreme weather events, including a severe cold snap last winter, have adversely affected B.C. farmers, particularly impacting stone fruit crops. Since 2020, the province has allocated over $237 million in support for tree fruit growers.
Minister of Agriculture and Food, Lana Popham, states, "These past years have been very challenging for B.C. tree fruit farmers and we want to make sure they are ready for this season and seasons to come." She adds, "We want farmers to be successful and this $10 million will help them rebuild to ensure a resilient, sustainable future for B.C.'s tree fruit industry."
Source: The Canadian Press