Governmentfallsshortinprioritizingagriculture

IAN PATON Delta South MLA

In one of British Columbia’s most vital agricultural regions, an unprecedented crisis is unfurling this year. As the sun beats down relentlessly and rain is hard to come by, farmers and ranchers are struggling tremendously right now. In some regions, with pastures shrinking and hay prices soaring to exorbitant heights, many cattle ranchers are contemplating the heartwrenching decision of having to part ways and sell their herds.

This harsh reality ripples far beyond the fields, shaking the very foundation of families who have owned and worked these farms and ranches for generations. The very farms that have been cherished and passed down are facing major challenges of longevity and economic sustainability. The repercussions extend beyond the boundaries of these agricultural landscapes, casting a gloomy cloud over the province’s food security. The necessity of selling cows that would have played a pivotal role in next year ’ s calf production only compounds the crisis Simultaneously, crop failures due to the relentless drought aggravate the situation, leaving farmers anxious about the viability of future growing seasons.

A further complication has emerged from the rivers that have long nurtured these lands The Fraser River’s water levels are dwindling, causing concern The encroachment of saltwater farther inland than usual heightens the worry, an event typically reserved for later in the summer. This eerie transformation of the water’s nature is yet another testament to the far-reaching effects of this drought crisis.

Farmers are on their heels as they do everything they can so save their wilted crops and alleviate the scarcity of hay Rising hay costs that don’t show any signs of slowing down create a distressing financial burden for farmers who grapple with the dual struggle of affordability and availability, while receiving inadequate support.

As I continue to advocate for more help for farmers and ranchers, both close to home and across B.C., I also continue to push for the preservation of significant lands like Brunswick Point in Delta

The history of Brunswick Point has been lengthy and painful for several Delta families. More than 600 acres of Brunswick Point farm- land that is being held by the Crown has not been sold back to the original owners instead, it has been offered back to the families through short-term leases I have long advocated for this to change, introducing a private member’s bill three times in the Legislature It’s my sincere hope the government will call it for debate

Our BC United Caucus continues to advocate for farmers, ranchers and other producers, and for the conservation of our precious land As fire and droughts continue to worsen, we must do more to protect our agriculture sector and ensure its longevity