Normally, there is a mix of optimism and concern among British Columbia farmers as they face the spring season. Despite the usual enthusiasm, the shadow of last year's unprecedented drought and the threat of another dry season loom large. Rancher Werner Stump, serving as the vice-president of the BC Cattleman's Association, expressed these sentiments during a news conference, emphasizing the critical importance of water for agriculture. The provincial government's announcement of an $80 million investment aimed at aiding farmers in water management, collection, and storage for crops and livestock was received with gratitude by the farming community.
Premier David Eby, announcing the funding, warned of the potential for this summer's drought to surpass last year's severity, citing notably low snow levels. The investment is directed towards the Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program, enhancing irrigation efficiency and developing infrastructure for better water availability and storage.
This initiative, building on last year's $20-million contribution that supported 108 water-storage projects, aims to prepare farmers for the upcoming drought while benefiting stream flows and fish populations. Eby emphasized the significant costs of inaction against climate change for the agricultural sector, underscoring the urgency of supporting farmers in these challenging conditions.
Source: bc.ctvnews.ca