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Okanagan Edition
Regional Newsletter - August 2024
Regional Newsletter
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food is committed to timely, regional communications regarding preparedness for drought and other natural disasters for agriculture producers through the AgriService BC e-Bulletin.
Information is conveyed through Regional Newsletters as well as Special Bulletins as required. If you wish to stay informed and prepare your agriculture business,
sign up for the newsletter and select all regions you would like to receive information for.
Note: If you already receive the Provincial AgriService BC e-Bulletin, be sure to manage your preferences and update your region as this is a new feature.
We also encourage you to follow us on Facebook.
Salmon River & Bessette Creek Watershed Information
Drought levels in the Salmon River and Bessette Creek watersheds are now at drought Level 4, higher than the drought level of the major basin they sit within. “Watershed Watch” areas are priority watersheds identified as being at risk of severe low flows due to high water user demand, a history of low flows, and having significant ecological or fisheries value (see image below). Drought levels are updated every Thursday at 9 a.m. on the B.C. Drought Information Portal.
With the Salmon River and Bessette Creek watersheds now at drought Level 4 and worsening water scarcity conditions, the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship (WLRS) is urging water users to maximize voluntary efforts to reduce water use. If drought conditions do not improve and voluntary reduction measures are not enough to restore critical flows and protect fish populations in the Salmon and Bessette watersheds, WLRS will consider issuing Fish Population Protection Orders for some water users (likely large-volume agricultural irrigators and other industrial water users) to temporarily cease diversions in the coming weeks (find out more about temporary protection orders here).
Similkameen River Watershed Information
The drought level for the Similkameen River watershed has been elevated to Level 4 (see image below). Drought levels are updated every Thursday at 9 a.m. on the B.C. Drought Information Portal.
With the Similkameen River watershed now at drought Level 4 and worsening water scarcity conditions, the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship (WLRS) is urging water users to further reduce surface water and groundwater withdrawals.
Looking for General Information on Drought?
Please see the Drought in Agriculture webpage - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/agricultural-land-and-environment/water/drought-in-agriculture and the B.C. Drought Information Portal - https://droughtportal.gov.bc.ca/
Provincial drought levels are updated on the B.C. Drought Information Portal on Thursday mornings.
Cross-Commodity Leadership Support Project - Events Calendar
The Cross-Commodity Leadership Support Project (CCLSP) was launched in 2023 as a pilot forum for the tree fruit and wine grape industries to work together on common challenges and opportunities. The CCLSP maintains a collaborative tree fruit and wine grape calendar which is designed to streamline industry events, help prevent scheduling conflicts and broaden outreach. To view the live calendar or submit events, visit: https://crosscommodity.org/events/
Are you wondering how to assess your soil health and improve your soil nutrient management? Join us and get your hands dirty learning how to sample, evaluate and monitor soil on your farm.
To register, please visit Assessing Your Soil - Soil Management Workshop: Falkland Tickets | Eventbrite
Efficient Pivot Practices Field Day with Southern Irrigation
Join us at Westwold View Farms in BC and learn the best practices for managing a pivot over forage crops.
RSVP Deadline: August 9, 2024
EVENT DETAILS
- Speakers: Nigel Pedersen, Southern Irrigation
- Date: August 13, 2024
- Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
- Address: Westwold View Farms Corner of Douglas Lake Road and Back Road, Westwold BC
Irrigation Efficiency Workshop for Vineyards and Orchards
We are excited to announce another opportunity to attend an Irrigation Efficiency Workshop for vineyards and orchards!
Join us at Phantom Creek Winery at 4315 Black Sage Rd, Oliver, BC V0H 1T1
Date: Thursday, August 29th
Time: 8:30 AM – 11 PM
Main Topic: Irrigation Technology and Methods
Agenda (based on Cawston's Agenda):
- 8:30 AM Breakfast + Coffee
- 9:00 AM Welcome + Speakers
- 9:45 AM Vineyard Tour
- 10:30 AM Questions + Raffles
- 10:45 AM Networking
- 11:00 AM End of Event
Don’t miss out on Early Bird Ticket sale!
Farm Management Canada’s Agricultural Excellence Conference
Date: November 19-21, 2024
Location: Abbotsford-Chilliwack
Autonomous Robots in Grape Production
Join Organic BC to interact with the Naio TED straddle robot! Get a firsthand look at how this innovative tool is helping farmers improve soil health and tackle rising costs and labour shortages.
Aug 16th: Sperling Vineyards, Kelowna
Aug 17th: Covert Farms Family Estate Winery, Oliver
Representatives from Vitis-Import, the Canadian distributor of the Naio TED, will discuss the latest advancements in agri-tech weeding technology in grape production. They will showcase and demonstrate the TED, highlighting its capabilities using finger hoes, inter-vine hydraulic tillage tools, electric edging tools and more.
A Q&A period will follow the demonstration, and snacks and refreshments will be provided.
This event is free and open to anyone interested, but registration is required.
Register for the Sperling Vineyards event (Kelowna) here, and the Covert Farms event (Oliver) here.
New Research Briefs from BC Food Web!
“Don’t forget sunscreen: Protecting tree fruits during extreme heat events”, summarizes research on foliar protectants in the Okanagan Valley. Read the full brief here: https://bcfoodweb.ca/briefs/dont-forget-sunscreen-protecting-tree-fruits-during-extreme-heat-events
- "Reducing post-harvest irrigation in sweet cherry production”, explores research on water use in 'Sweetheart' cherry orchards in the Okanagan Valley. Read the full brief here: https://bcfoodweb.ca/briefs/reducing-post-harvest-irrigation-sweet-cherry-production
New Resources: Ambrosia Fruitlet Sampling
Follow the links to access instructional videos and factsheet designed to guide producers and packers on how to carryout apple fruitlet sampling, and make use of the B.C. developed Ambrosia fruitlet nutrient information found at fruit tree nutrition (B.C. Tree Fruit Production Guide). The information includes specific ideal fruitlet nutrient targets for Ambrosia apples and some common disorders that can occur with deficiencies or excesses of particular nutrients.
Fruitlet analysis plays a key role of informing fruit quality decisions in orchards and storage of premium apples, especially for export markets. For example, calcium plays an important role in storage quality of fruit, however, levels in leaf or soil samples are poorly correlated with calcium levels in the fruit.
Information for BC Tree Fruits Cooperative Members
To support BC Tree Fruits Cooperative members in finding packing capacity for their fruit, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food is collaborating with the BC Tree Fruit Growers Association to identify producer needs and challenges.
For those in need of services provided by a packing house, please complete the Impacted Producer Needs Survey below. Your business information will be provided to the packing houses on the list available on the Ministry’s website (please link to this website https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/animals-and-crops/crop-production/tree-fruits/information-for-bc-tree-fruit-cooperative-members) for them to follow up with you as they wish. By completing and submitting this survey, neither the Ministry nor the packing houses guarantee that a match or an arrangement can be made.
· Impacted Producer Needs Survey
Rather than complete the online form, producers who wish to speak to a representative can call the AgriService BC Toll Free line at 1-888-221-7141 (hours are M-F 8:30 to 4:30). A ministry representative will collect their information and pass it along to the packers. Upon request, a Punjabi speaking employee can be available to collect the information.
Landscape Modeling Project in the Bolean and 6-Mile Creek Areas
The BC Cattlemen’s Association (BCCA), supported by the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food, is initiating a landscape modeling project in the Bolean and 6-Mile Creek areas of the Salmon River Watershed. BCCA contractors will be in the Bolean and 6-Mile Creek areas conducting sampling and survey work from mid-August to the end of September. The work will support evaluation of a modeling tool, focusing on landscape water and testing potential to predict where water might be anticipated to accumulate on the landscape, which in turn can be used to contribute to future planning discussions in the region.
To collect the necessary data, BCCA contractors (Pantel Environmental Services Inc) will be out in the area starting mid-August and continuing through September. They’ll be surveying stream channel characteristics such as width, depth, flow rate, gradient, as well as streamside plant communities of both Bolean Creek and 6-Mile Creek. BCCA contractors will be using public roads located throughout the Crown land portion of the area to access sampling points, they will not be accessing private land.
Watch for the survey crew across the region from August 12 to September 30, 2024.
For further information please contact: BC Cattlemen’s Association (250) 573-3611
Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program
The Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program (AWP) aims to increase adoption of efficient irrigation infrastructure and improve agricultural water supply and management in British Columbia. Through this program, the Government of B.C. seeks to see improvements to stream flows, fish populations and an increased and more sustainable food production. The program goal is to help improve water security in agricultural areas and food security in B.C.
The AWP is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation (IAF) of B.C. Please refer to the program website for details: https://iafbc.ca/awp.
Stream 1 Producer Projects
Stream 2 Community Projects
Stream 3 Assessments, Engineering Studies or Plans
Stream 4 Strategic Projects
Drafts for applications opened June 27, 2024, application submissions are open July 25, 2024 to August 8, 2024. This application is approved based on eligibility of projects submitted between the dates mentioned above.
Learn more about financial assistance for agricultural producers impacted by drought on the Ministry’s Drought in Agriculture webpage. This page also contains key drought resources and information on livestock, crop, and irrigation management during drought. Links to information on flood forecasting, preparedness, and mitigation are found on our Flooding webpage.
Please visit the Ministry’s Drought in agriculture web page to access our library of water management resources for producers.
Accommodation For Employees
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food would like to remind producers who have employees living on site, or are providing housing for employees off-site, that the accommodation must abide by the Industrial Camps Regulation. The B.C. Guidelines for Industrial Camps Regulation is a helpful resource that provides guidance, best practices, definitions, and interpretation of the Industrial Camps Regulation.
If you have any questions, please refer to the relevant Health Authority Contacts on the Government of British Columbia's Industrial Camp webpage
B.C.'s agricultural producers face many business risks that are beyond their control (production losses, severe market volatility, extreme weather events or disasters); the Province’s suite of agricultural insurance and income stability programs can help you manage those risks.
Production Insurance Application Deadlines for the 2025 Crop Year (https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/agriculture-insurance-and-income-protection-programs/redirect-production-insurance):
• Berries, Grapes, Flower Bulbs and Strawberry Plants – October 31, 2024
• Tree Fruits and Forage – November 30, 2024
In July 2024 the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food launched the AgriService BC Crop and Livestock Reporter Program based on the very successful crop reporting programs in Alberta and Saskatchewan. This program is for any agricultural producer or allied tradesperson who enjoys monitoring agricultural production conditions in their area and would like to be part of a network of people contributing timely, local agricultural intel to raise awareness of growing conditions throughout B.C. and support agricultural information sharing.
Each week from April to November, Reporters will spend about 5 minutes filling out an easy online survey that collects information on rainfall, topsoil moisture conditions, seeding progress, crop development, crop damage, harvest progress, livestock feed and water supplies, and pasture conditions. This information will be used in B.C. by producers, producer organizations, government, and others interested in keeping informed of current agricultural production findings in regions across B.C.
Please visit the program website here: B.C. Crop and Livestock Reporter Program - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
What to Do with Excess Manure?
In certain regions of British Columbia, it may be more difficult to effectively manage surplus manure for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to: cost of land, transport costs to distant fields, and increasing quota to meet market demand.
The following factsheet provides guidance on dealing with surplus manure and covers a range of topics such as manure storage, nutrient management, and techniques for converting manure into valuable by-products.
Pasture Walks and Field Scouting
Whether you have forage fields or pastures, it is important to get out and walk the land to evaluate what is happening throughout the growing season. A quick look at soil health and moisture, along with plant vigour and productivity can help you evaluate what is going on and make decisions on the next steps. This article provides information on pasture walks and field scouting, along with some guiding questions for forecasting and looking ahead.
This is the second article in the monthly Livestock Drought Management Article Series. All articles can be found here: Drought articles - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
Heads Up! Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program opening soon!
The objective of the KTTP is to increase the competitiveness, resiliency, and innovation of the British Columbia (B.C.) agriculture and food sector through facilitated knowledge and technology transfer.
The cost-shared reimbursement program is intended to strategically support B.C.’s producers and processors to innovate and adapt to changing environmental, production, and market conditions through practical, applied knowledge and skill development to ensure behaviour change.
The next KTTP intake is expected to open later in 2024. Please check back for updates and announcements.
Farming Fundamentals at VIU
This fall and winter VIU will be offering three new micro-credentials with an agricultural focus. Courses are online, with in-person field day options.
Please visit viu.ca/agriculture or email pdtagriculture@viu.ca for more information and registration details.
Courses
Sustainable Soils Management
September – October 2024
Explore the science of soils. Develop an understanding of soil as a complex community of living beings. Learn about the physical, chemical, biological and social environments of soil.
Understand how communities of plants, animals and other biological beings in the soil can thrive or be regenerated with soil amendment practices.
Agro-ecological Systems Management
November – December 2024
Get an introduction to the art and the sciences that shape agro-ecological principles and practices. Explores ecological and farm biodiversity, climate-adaptation and ecosystem restoration strategies.
This course invites a holistic, Two-Eyed Seeing perspective on the ecological, social, and economic impacts and benefits of contemporary and traditional land management.
Organic Vegetable Seed Production
January-March 2025
Gain an understanding of the science of organic seed production for vegetables. Explore the current regulatory and policy environments in Canada that impact seed saving and seed sovereignty.
This national initiative is a refresh of the Organic Vegetable Seed Production course developed with Canadian Organic Growers and SeedChange Canada.
Species at Risk Partnership on Agricultural Land (SARPAL) Applications Are Open
The SARPAL Program is open for applications!
Call the BC Cattlemen's Association office - 1-877-668-2333
or email: sarpal@cattlemen.bc.ca
Access to Feed Program
Available to all livestock producers.
A program provided by the BC Cattlemen's Association was created to connect feed suppliers to livestock producers that are in need of feed due to drought.
Submit applications if you have feed available for sale including: type of hay/ quality, bale type & size, equipment to unload, ability to handle a b-train or step-deck delivery, your contact info & location.
Contact hay@cattlemen.bc.ca or 250-306-6277
Agroclimate Impact Reporter
The Government of Canada is collecting AIR reports for AIR for the month of June. To learn more about AIR, follow this link.
To let the Science and Technology Branch of AAFC know what the conditions are like this month in your area, please respond to one of the links below:
As always, please consider sharing these links with your colleagues and networks.
To view previous Agroclimate Impact maps, follow this link. Or see some of the other resources we produce on the AAFC Weather and Drought home page. Thank you for your participation.
Thank you for your interest in this citizen science project.
Emergency Supports Needed
The Emergency Management Branch of the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food creates an annual emergency resources list which is used during emergencies that impact the agriculture sector. The list includes hay & feed suppliers, livestock haulers, and water haulers whose assistance may be needed during emergency events.
If you fit in one or more of these categories, we are encouraging you to contact the Emergency Management Branch at AF.Emergency.Management@gov.bc.ca so that we can have a discussion with you, and add you to our resource list.
We are looking for hay suppliers, livestock haulers, and water haulers throughout the province.
SAVE THE DATE!
Application intake for the B.C. Agri-Business Planning Program will be opening SOON.
The B.C. Agri-Business Planning Program (ABPP) provides funding support for primary agricultural producers and agriculture, food and beverage processors to support informed decision making and ensure business development.
Funding is available under two streams:
1) Agri-business skills and leadership development
2) Business planning, preparedness, and disaster recovery
To find out more, please visit the Ministry’s website https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/agri-business-planning-program#Overview
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