The British Columbia government has launched a $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency Program to help orchardists mitigate the effects of extreme weather. The program provides up to 80% cost-share funding for eligible projects, with a maximum of $100,000 per farm business. Applications are now open and will continue until the funds are fully allocated.
The initiative aims to assist growers in purchasing wind machines, energy-efficient heaters, canopy sprinklers, and shade protection systems to safeguard crops against extreme cold and heat. The province also allows multiple growers to apply jointly for projects benefiting more than one property, such as shared wind machines.
Growers in the Okanagan Valley, home to B.C.'s iconic tree-fruit industry, have faced increasing challenges due to climate change. In January 2024, bitter cold nearly wiped out the region's cherry and peach crops, while extreme heat has previously damaged fruit, particularly after rainstorms when moisture causes fruit to split.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Lana Popham emphasized the importance of the new program, stating, "We know these climate impacts will continue, which is why we're helping growers so their crops and businesses become more resilient in the face of increasingly challenging growing conditions."
Wind machines, which pull warmer air down to ground level, are a key tool for protecting crops from freezing temperatures. During heat waves, shade protection systems help shield fruit from excessive sun exposure, and in some cases, helicopters are even used to dry fruit quickly after rain to prevent splitting.
The program was developed with input from the B.C. Fruit Growers' Association (BCFGA) and the B.C. Cherry Association. Deep Brar, BCFGA vice-president, described the funding as a necessary step in ensuring long-term sustainability for the industry. "The climate has been exceptionally tough on our growers for the past few years, with devastating impacts from heat domes and cold snaps," he said.
Okanagan orchardists have welcomed the funding, recognizing the increasing volatility of the climate. David Geen, CEO of one of B.C.'s largest cherry producers, noted that mitigation strategies such as frost-control materials, wind machines, and research into hardier varieties are essential for stabilizing the cherry industry.
MLA Harwinder Sandhu (Vernon-Lumby), who has spoken extensively with local growers, called the program a vital investment in the future of B.C.'s farming communities. "Climate change is a real challenge for our farming communities, and this program will help growers with projects and equipment that support their farms' profitability, resiliency, and sustainable food production for years to come."
With rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, the province continues to explore ways to support agricultural resilience, ensuring that locally grown cherries, peaches, apples, and other tree fruits remain available for future generations.
Source: Times Chronicle
Source: Kelowna Courier