Okanagan

Regional Newsletter
August 2025

Feature of the month: BC Crop and Livestock Reporter Program

Upcoming events: 

• Aug 5 & 6: Biodiversity in the Vineyard: Field tour with researchers & viticulturalists on cover crops and soil health in the south and central Okanagan
• Aug 14: Rotational Grazing and Field Assessment OFCAF workshop South Okanagan
• Aug 11,12,15,26: The AgLife Connector Training
• Nov 25-27: Early-bird tickets now available for the 2025 BC Organic Conference
• Jan 22-24, Feb 11-12: Save the Date: Lower Mainland Horticultural Conference and Southern Interior Horticultural Show

Drought and Wildfire Preparedness

• Proactive water conservation in August 
• Responding to drought on your farm
• Livestock Water Quality Testing Pilot Project
• Emergency management for agriculture - is your BCPID info up to date?

Programs and funding opportunities: 

• Success Story: Rosebank Farm tackles efficiency with the EFP Program
• Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program

Business Risk Management Programs:

• Production Insurance

Resources:

• Monitor for Little Cherry Disease
• The 2026 Census of Agriculture
• 2025 B.C. Cattleman's Association Drought Survey
• Your input needed - ease of doing business in B.C.
• New Compost Management Factsheets
• Benefits of Riparian Areas Factsheets
• Keep your plants healthy with B.C.'s Plant Healthy Laboratory!
• B.C. Indigenous Pathfinder Service

Become a Volunteer Crop and/or Livestock Reporter

Are you a weather-watcher who checks the rain gauge each morning? Do you enjoy discussing farming and crop conditions with your neighbours? Would you like to contribute local information that helps develop and support B.C.’s agriculture data? The data benefits all those involved in B.C.’s agriculture industry and helps the general public to understand the challenges facing our producers.

Consider becoming a Volunteer Crop and Livestock Reporter with the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food today!

Contest Alert! Crop reporters that report weekly for at least 50% of the growing season will be entered into a draw to win a basket of delicious B.C. food products valued at approximately $150!

OFCAF Rotational Grazing & Pasture Assessment Field Day

Calling all RANCHERS & FARMERS! Join BC Grazing Mentors and OFCAF Recipients at Casorso Ranch to learn cutting-edge virtual fencing technology, advanced rotational grazing principles, and the new BC Forage Council Grazing Response Index for data-driven grazing decisions. 

Host: Casorso Ranch, 410 Mcintyre Creek Road Okanagan Falls BC 
Date: Thursday, August 14th, 2025 
Time: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM 
Duration: 4 hours 

Field Day Structure 

Presenters: Casorso Ranch Team and Grazing Mentors Rob Dinwoodie and Tim Ross 

Session 1: Virtual Fencing Technology Workshop and Demonstration 

• Introduction to virtual fencing systems and GPS collar technology 
• Live demonstration of virtual fence setup and programming 
• Cattle behavior training tips and adaptation techniques 
• Cost-benefit and ROI considerations 
• Integration with existing ranch infrastructure 

Session 2: Advanced Rotational Grazing with Virtual Fencing and OFCAF Funding 

• Principles of advanced rotational grazing using virtual boundaries 
• Dynamic paddock design and flexible grazing cells 
• Maximizing pasture recovery periods with rotational grazing 
• Real-time grazing management adjustments 
• Overview of On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) opportunities 
• Virtual fencing funding eligibility and application process 
• Funding timelines and implementation support 

Session 3: Practical Pasture Assessment and Grazing Response Index 

• Guided pasture walk on Casorso Ranch property 
• Grazing Response Index (GRI) methodology 
• Plant health indicators and monitoring strategies 
• Data integration between virtual fencing and pasture assessment 

Our comprehensive GRI booklet will be available at this event - free for BC Forage Council members and $15 CAD for non-members.

The AgLife Connector Training

The AgLife Connector Training is a mental health awareness and suicide prevention skills training designed specifically for B.C. agriculture. By taking the training, you will learn valuable skills like:

• how to identify and support someone who is struggling with their mental health
• how you can get them connected to supports
• an easy-to-remember three-step framework for supporting BC producers who may be struggling with their mental health

Become an AgLife Connector and join a growing network of people who care about producer mental health and wellbeing and want to make a difference! This program is a collaboration between AgSafe BC and the Canadian Mental Health Association – BC Division.

Cost: FREE (with free snacks, coffee, and lunch provided for in-person training)
Duration: 4.5 hours (30 minutes for lunch)

Locations:
August 11: VIRTUAL | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Register
August 12: Penticton at Beem Credit Union Penticton|10:00 AM – 2:30 PM Register
August 15: Kelowna at CMHA Kelowna| 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM  Register
August 26: VIRTUAL | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Register

BC Fairs & Exhibitions – 2025 Calendar of events

The "BC Fairs & Exhibitions – 2025 Calendar of Events" is your go-to guide for all the exciting fairs and exhibitions happening across British Columbia in 2025. Whether you’re a local resident, an organizer, or just looking for something fun to do, this resource brings together a wonderful mix of cultural, agricultural, and entertainment events from all corners of the province. It’s a fantastic way to stay connected, celebrate local traditions, and enjoy unforgettable experiences with your community!

Local fairs in your region:

• Aug 27-31: Interior Provincial Exhibition
• Sep 6-7: Peachland Fall Fair

To learn more about BC Fairs visit our website at www.bcfairs.ca

Early-bird tickets now available for the 2025 BC Organic Conference

Join Organic BC in Harrison Hot Springs from November 25 - 27 to farm ideas and build community!

This year’s highlights include:

• Keynotes: We're excited to welcome Jacob Beaton, Gillian Flies, Brent Preston and our virtual keynote, Paul Holmbeck
• Workshops: 20+ sessions featuring practical, hands-on learning
• Trade show: The latest products, services, equipment and more
• Organic banquet: A delicious feast featuring local, organic products
• Farm tours: A close-up look at innovative practices, techniques, and tools
• Seed swap table: Bring seeds. Take seeds. Share stories!

Discounts are available for recently purchased Organic BC memberships at the Organic Farm/Business, Sustainer and Certifying Body tiers. Haven’t joined the new Organic BC yet? Join now at organicbc.org/membership

Southern Interior Horticultural Show

When: February 11 - 12, 2026
Where: Penticton Trade and Convention Centre

The Southern Interior Horticultural Show provides producers with the opportunity to network and access the latest information on research, innovation, and farming practices from some of the industry’s most knowledgeable experts.

Details on how to purchase tickets, as well as an agenda overview, will be provided in the fall.

The ever-popular tradeshow and sponsorship opportunities are back! Details will be shared by the end of summer for those that wish to be a part of the show. If this is of interest to you, please reach out to sihs@pacegroup.com and we will add you to our distribution list.

The event is delivered by the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food in partnership with: B.C. Cherry Assoc, B.C. Fruit Growers’ Assoc., B.C. Grapegrowers’ Assoc., B.C. Wine Grape Council, Wine Growers British Columbia, Sustainable Winegrowing B.C., Okanagan-Kootenay Sterile Insect Release, Summerland Varieties Corp., and the Cross-Commodity Leadership Support Project.

Funding for the conference is provided in part by the governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

Lower Mainland Horticultural Conference

When: January 22 - 24, 2026
Where: TRADEX, Abbotsford

The Lower Mainland Horticultural Conference provides producers the opportunity to get the latest information on research, farming practices and market opportunities from some of the industry’s most knowledgeable experts.

Details on how to purchase tickets, as well as an agenda overview, will be provided in the fall.

The Lower Mainland Horticultural Conference is delivered by the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food in partnership with the Lower Mainland Horticultural Improvement Association and the Pacific Agriculture Show. Funding for the conference is provided in part by the governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial- territorial initiative.

Proactive water conservation in August 

As we enter August, drought conditions continue to intensify in many regions of the Province. Producers can help make the most of our shared water resources by focusing on water efficiency and conserving water wherever possible.

Consider these key water-saving measures:

• Use efficient irrigation techniques to reduce water demand.
• A well-maintained system saves water. Regularly check for leaks, inspect nozzles, and apply water wisely to maximize every drop.
• Monitor crop and soil conditions to apply water when and where its most effective. If you're in a watershed facing water shortages, consider prioritizing crops at critical growth stages and coordinating with neighbours irrigating to stagger watering schedules and ease pressure on local water sources.

For more tips and information on resources and supports during drought, check out the Quick Guide to Drought Resources or visit the Drought in Agriculture webpage.

Responding to drought on your farm

When drought conditions impact your crops and livestock, timely decisions are critical. Focusing on key management strategies can help you navigate the challenges of a dry season. If you are experiencing the effects of hot and dry conditions, the Drought in Agriculture webpage has specific resources to help you make tough management decisions:

• The Drought Management Checklist for Livestock and Forage Producers provides key management practices to help minimize losses.
• The Managing Livestock During Drought Decision Tree can help you make informed decisions during drought conditions and ensure the health of livestock.
• Learn more about Drought impacts on soil fertility to plan your fertilizer program according if you're expecting reduced crop yield.

Livestock Water Quality Testing Pilot Project

BC Cattlemen's Association has partnered with the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food to initiate a Livestock Water Quality Testing Pilot Project. This project will serve as a proactive way for producers to test their water and mitigate potential losses.

Why it was developed:
Severe drought and dry weather conditions can negatively impact the quality of livestock drinking water and have serious implications on animal health and reproduction.
Impacts from poor water quality are often discovered after animals have suddenly become ill or a group of susceptible animals, such as calves, die.

Reminders:

• Thoroughly clean a 1 litre bottle to collect your sample in
• Be sure the bottle is full
• You may submit multiple samples to be conductivity tested
• Be sure to know the source type - ground or surface water
• Take a photo with your phone of the id sheet you filled out with the sample to have a record

Test Locations in the Okanagan:

• Kamloops - Delta Irrigation
• Oliver - Southern Irrigation

For more information, contact: water@cattlemen.bc.ca or 250-573-3611

Emergency management for agriculture - Is your BCPID info up to date?

If you keep livestock, poultry, or bees, it's time to update your BC Premises ID — it could make all the difference in an emergency. Take five minutes to login to your account and confirm your details to make sure you are prepared in the event of an emergency. 

Not sure if your animals require registration? 
Check the BCPID brochure for a full list of species that need to be reported. 
Your animals rely on you. Help us support you—keep your BCPID info current. 
Register or Reconfirm your account now!  

Have a Premises ID, but no online access? 
Click "Get Access"  under the Access Paper Account section and enter your account number and phone number. 

Trouble logging in? Questions? We’re here to help: BCPID@gov.bc.ca | 1-888-221-7141 (Ask for Premises ID)  

Success Story: Rosebank Farm tackles efficiency with the EFP Program

At Rosebank Farms, located in an area previously known as “Drought Hill,” the commitment to sustainable water management has transformed challenges into opportunities for growth. Since its inception in 1992, the farm has faced ongoing water scarcity and contamination issues, prompting a continuous journey towards water efficiency and safety. This led owner Andrea Gunner to discover the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) Program.

“Farmers who have an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) learn how to reduce agriculture’s impact on the environment. Many Environmental Farm Plan participants enjoy increased efficiency, profitability, and new customers as a result of increased environmental sustainability.” (Ministry of Agriculture and Food)

EFP Program Funding has been provided by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a $3.5 billion, 5-year agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments. Additional funding has been provided by CleanBC. The program is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF).

Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program

Funding remains available for this year’s Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program intake. Submit your application now to receive support for your knowledge or skill-building event.

A new infographic has been published summarizing the results from the 2024–25 Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program and the impact of last year’s funding on B.C.’s agriculture and food sector. Click the button below to learn more.

Insurance and Income Protection Programs are an important part of a farmer’s overall risk management strategy. AgriStability and Production Insurance work together to provide the best coverage for producers. 

Production Insurance

Production Insurance helps producers manage their risk of crop losses caused by hail, spring frost, excessive rain, drought, flooding and other extreme weather events.  In British Columbia, Production Insurance is available for: 

• Berries 
• Flower bulbs 
• Forage 
• Grain 
• Grapes 
• Tree fruit 
• Vegetables 

Need help with Production Insurance? 

• Phone: 1-888-332-3352 toll-free  
• Email: ProductionInsurance.Kelowna@gov.bc.ca  
• Visit: www.gov.bc.ca/CropInsurance

 Staff are available to help with the application and renewal process.

Monitor for Little Cherry Disease

As the season progresses, please take time to monitor your orchards for symptoms of Little Cherry Disease (LCD) and Western X Phytoplasma, both of which continue to threaten cherry production in B.C. The best time to collect samples is the week before harvest to mid-August.

Key symptoms to watch for:

• Small, poorly coloured fruit that is bland or bitter
• Delayed or uneven ripening
• Symptoms typically appear on individual limbs or localized areas within a tree
• Affected fruit often remains clustered and hangs on the tree late into the season

If you see signs of possible infection, sample symptomatic branches as soon as symptoms appear. Early detection is critical to reduce spread and support timely management.

How to sample:

• Collect four, 5" (13cm) cuttings from the diseased limb(s) including leaves, and fruit stems. Remove fruit from the sample but leave the fruit stems
• Clearly label each sample with your name, contact information, sample date, and tree/row ID
• Keep samples cool and submit to lab within 24 hours

Send samples to:
BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food Plant Health Laboratory
1767 Angus Campbell Road
Abbotsford, BC V3G 2M3
Phone: 604-556-3003
Note: There is currently no charge for LCD or Western X testing for commercial growers in B.C.

For more information, please refer to the links below:
Factsheet: Little Cherry Disease
WSU YouTube Video: Scouting and Sampling for Little Cherry Disease
More information on X-Disease: Pests | BC Tree Fruit Production Guide

The 2026 Census of Agriculture

The questionnaire for the 2026 Census of Agriculture has been published on the Statistics Canada website. 

New categories have been added to the commodity questions in the 2026 Census to identify emerging agricultural products. Questions on agricultural practices have been expanded to measure the breadth of environmental practices and environmental sustainability in the agricultural sector. Questions on the adoption of on-farm technologies and renewable energy production were updated with new or modified categories to better reflect current technologies.

2025 BC Cattlemen's Association Drought survey

As the extreme heat and dry conditions prevail across the province, BC Cattlemen's Association is seeking feedback from producers about the severity and extent of drought conditions throughout B.C.

We are collecting information such as forage yields, regional hay availability, feed prices, water availability and reservoir levels as well as impacts from forest fires.

Your input needed - ease of doing business in B.C.

Do you have some challenges and ideas for solutions on how we can make it simpler to do business in B.C.? The Province wants to hear from entrepreneurs, business owners and leaders in the business community to understand the barriers and improve competitiveness. 

New Compost Management Factsheets now available

To support BC farmers and landowners in producing, using and assessing compost effectively, the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food has created a new series of compost factsheets.

These resources provide science-based guidance on:

• The composting process
• How to start on-farm composting
• Troubleshooting issues
• Assessing compost quality
• and others! 

Read our Factsheets by following the link below.

Benefits of Riparian Areas Factsheets

Check out our four Benefits of Riparian Areas Factsheets to learn more about how maintaining healthy riparian areas on your farm can benefit your agricultural operation and contribute to ecosystem health.

Factsheet topics include:

1. Healthy Riparian Areas and Agricultural Land
2. Flood Mitigation and Water Resources
3. Improved Pollination, Pest Control, and Biodiversity
4. Soil Health

Read our Factsheets by following the link below.

Keep your plants healthy with B.C.'s Plant Health Laboratory!

Are you a grower or plant enthusiast in British Columbia? The Plant Health Laboratory is here to help you diagnose and manage plant health problems. From plant diseases to insect pests, our experts use advanced diagnostic methods to keep your crops thriving.

Services Include:

• Disease diagnosis
• Insect identification
• Soil testing for pH and clubroot detection

How to Submit Samples:

1. Collect a sample showing the problem (whole plant with roots and soil is best)
2. Package it properly to prevent damage
3. Submit it to our lab for a thorough analysis

Turnaround Time:
8 to 15 business days for most samples

Fees:

• Disease screen: $52.50
• Insect identification: $31.50

For more details, visit our website. You can also email: PAHB@gov.bc.ca or phone: 1-800-661-9903

B.C. Indigenous Pathfinder Service 

The B.C. Indigenous Pathfinder Service is a single source for support and referral to help navigate the relevant information, tools and funding available To access this free service, email IndigenousFoodSystems@gov.bc.ca or call 236-426-5024 and a staff member will be in contact with you as soon as possible.

Funding for the B.C. Indigenous Pathfinder Service is provided by the governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

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