Orchard & Vine Pre Spring 2022

BC Ag Minister Interview Blueberries in the Flood Zone BC Tree Fruits ‘The Path Forward’ Pre Spring 2022 $6.95

Canadian Winemaker Ann Sperling

Display Until Mar. 15, 2022 Publication Mail Agreement No. 40838008 www.orchardandvine.net

2022 Tractors Pre Spring 2022

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Photo credit: BC Blueberry Council

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Flooded blueberry fields in Sumas Prairie.

CONTENTS 6

Publisher’s View – Lisa Olson

10 Events Calendar

Photo credit: Government of BC

12 News and Events 23 It’s Been A Tough Year For BC Agriculture Annual interview with the Honourable Lana Popham BC’s Minister of Agriculture

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Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, met with farmers impacted by the flooding and mudslides in Abbotsford BC.

27 ‘ The Path Forward’ 19 Recommendations to rebuild the tree fruit industry 29 S outhwest Flooding: Kindness prevails as cleanup begins 33 Talking Tractors: Tractor survey & tractor specs 39 Safety Tips – WorksafeBC 40 Word on Wine – Kelly Josephson

Photo by Ronda Payne

41 Marketing Mix – Leeann Froese

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Kelsey Mostertman, the distiller at New Wave Distilling at Ripples, surveying the damage at Ripples Winery.

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43 Seeds of Growth – Glen Lucas 46 Canadian Winemaker Series – Ann Sperling Cover Photo: Curtis Sandhu of Sandhu Farms lost 25 acres of berries on the Sumas Prairie. In the low spots on the fields he had eight feet of water. Photo by Ronda Payne

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 PUBLISHER’S VIEW | LISA OLSON

Take the Time to Appreciate What You Have If you are a parent or have spent any time around children you will understand the following story.

Vol. 63, No 1 Pre Spring 2022

It was my son-in-law’s 30th birthday. I watched as he opened his presents, or rather observed as his four-year-old proceeded to open his dad’s gift bags, pulling out and exploring one item at a time while his dad sat back patiently, relaxed, smiling and enjoying his little one taking pleasure in opening his gifts.

Publisher

The last couple of years have been really hard for families to get together for a number of reasons. There’s the fear of getting sick or passing it along, not travelling, or not agreeing on one’s vaccination status, distance, and probably many other reasons.

While some friends and family became divided, while others became closer than ever.

One thing for sure, is that it can all be gone in a moment.

A good example is what happened this year with the fires and flooding. It doesn’t matter what your opinions or beliefs may be, your home and business can all be taken away in a moment, by something that’s completely unpredictable.

This year has been an apt, but tragic example, from the deadly heat dome in June to the catastrophic flooding in November.

In this issue, we tell the story of the flood cleanup and the rebuilding and how the

Lisa Olson Photo by Kimberly Brooke Photography

Not once did he say, “Hey! That’s for dad to open!” Rather, he sat back, appreciating his son’s enjoyment. Then the time came to blow out his candles, and I’m sure you can guess what happened there.

Established in 1959

farming community came together at a time of need.

While the flood brought dark days to many in towns and cities like Merritt, Princeton, Spences Bridge, and Abbotsford, the silver lining that shines bright is how people came together to help their neighbours and to save their communities.

We tell one of those stories in this issue, when neighbours of the Ripples Winery and Farm arrived to help the owners.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to all those who experienced a loss in this disaster, and we wish them all the very best in the rebuilding and recovery.

I also hope you get the chance to spend some quality time with close friends and family, blow out some monumental candles and appreciate sharing a good meal and some laughter together.

Enjoy the magazine!

Editor Gary Symons Graphic Design Stephanie Symons Writers Leeann Froese, Kelly Josephson, Glen Lucas, Ronda Payne, Gary Symons, Tom Walker Contact lisa@orchardandvine.net Orchard & Vine Magazine Ltd. Mailing Address 22-2475 Dobbin Road Suite #578 West Kelowna, BC V4T 2E9 www.orchardandvine.net Phone: 778-754-7078 Fax: 1-866-433-3349 Orchard & Vine Magazine is published six times a year and distributed by addressed mail to growers, suppliers and wineries in the Okanagan, Kootenays, Fraser Valley, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, Washington State and across Canada. Orchard & Vine is also available online.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40838008 Undeliverable copies should be sent to: 22-2475 Dobbin Road Suite #578 West Kelowna, BC V4T 2E9

Providing Canadian Grapevine Solutions BRITISH COLUMBIA Phone 250.809.6040 bcsales@vinetech.ca 6

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Salmon Arm Cherry Processing Salmon River Rd. Salmon Arm, BC 23,500 sq ft Cherry processing facility with labour housing on 7.10 acres. Equipment included, Hydraulic separator, Hydro coolers, GP grader - 8 lane machine with capacity for 4 more lanes, Chill tank, Size and Defect sorter, Air-jet grader, 12 packing stations. MLS 10240852, Price $4,500,000

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 PRE SPRING | FLOODING STATEMENT

BC Blueberry Council Statement Regarding November 2021 Floods

From flooded fields and homes to supply chain issues, this is an especially challenging time for British Columbia. We stand with the those impacted by floods.

Our hearts go out to the growers whose homes are flooded. Their loss is insurmountable. Blueberry grower Jaswant Dhillon says his “family has lost everything, including precious family memories.

The entire house is unsalvageable.” He says many of his neighbours are in the same situation.

The blueberry industry is experiencing an unprecedented event of great magnitude, in which at least 2500 acres of blueberries have been impacted, largely concentrated in the Sumas Prairie area. The total acreage of blueberry production in BC is approximately 27,000 acres, according to Statistics Canada.

Some portions of the Matsqui Flats area were also completely submerged for a period of time, and other areas near the Fraser River were affected to a lesser extent. Growers in less flooded areas where the water drained away after 5-6 days and was 2-3’ deep will possibly have a chance to recover their fields. Nonetheless, all flooded blueberry fields are likely to experience varying degrees of damage or loss.

In the Sumas Prairie region, some growers reported there was up to 7-8 feet of water in their fields and expressed concerns about the long-term impact, especially due to debris and other possible issues arising from plants being submerged for an extended period.

“There is a strong possibility that severely impacted growers will need to pull out their plants and replant them, which could be a large financial expense.” says Harry Sidhu, whose family farms in Sumas Prairie. He further adds, “blueberries are a perennial plant, and

Photos of the devastating floods provided by the BC Blueberry Council.

it takes years for a sizeable crop yield, so this may be a significant loss of income for many years.”

This is still an active and evolving situation. Currently, the Council is identifying severely impacted growers and finding ways to assist them.

“Damage to fields will need to be reassessed once the water recedes,” says Jason Smith, the BC Blueberry Council’s board chair.

Smith also reassures that the vast majority of the BC blueberry growing region is not impacted and there is no short or long-term impact for consumers of blueberries.

Photo credits: BC Blueberry Council

The last few years have been challenging for the BC blueberry industry, due to unpredictable weather events and pollination challenges, which led to less-than-optimal volumes in production. In 2019, the crop volume was around 200 million pounds. It dropped by approximately 20 million pounds in 2020 and by nearly 50 million pounds in 2021.

To overcome some of these challenges, impacted blueberry growers need assistance. The blueberry industry is a defining characteristic of British Columbia, and the livelihood of many families, thus the BC Blueberry Council is asking for its flood impacted members to be fully included in all government relief measures. Currently, the 12 Pre Spring 2022

Council is awaiting the announcement of the AgriRecovery program, a federal and provincial cost-share initiative that is expected to assist growers in their flooding recovery efforts.

The Council has created a flooding resource page that outlines the varying levels of available assistance. This page will be updated as information becomes available: https://www.bcblueberry.com/resources-and-support-bc-flooding-event Members of the public who are interested in helping blueberry growers can contact the BC Blueberry Council at 604 864 2117 or email info@bcblueberry.com.

About the BC Blueberry Council Representing over 600+ growers of premium quality highbush blueberries in British Columbia Our Mission To support our growers by enhancing the viability and strategic development of the blueberry industry through promotion, research, industry education and relationship building.

What We Do Work collaboratively with growers, packers and processors to expand market opportunities for BC blueberries in Canada and abroad.

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 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

Chief Robert Louie Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award Winery founder and former Westbank First Nation Chief Robert Louie has been honoured with a lifetime achievement award by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business.

The annual award recognizes a First Nations, Inuit, or Métis person whose business leadership has made a substantive contribution to the economic and social well-being of Indigenous people.

A former lawyer, Louie spent 24 years as Chief of Westbank First Nation, while helping guide the band through independence and self-governance.

Over the years, he also served as chairman, director or board member of more than 30 corporate entities, six of which he continues to sit on today.

Louie is currently the owner of the widely acclaimed Indigenous World Winery and Distillery, the Kelowna West Manufacturing Home Park, and other business ventures.

“Robert Louie exemplifies the entrepreneurial and leadership characteristics at the heart of this award,” said CCAB president and CEO, Tabatha Bull.

“His entrepreneurial spirit, work leading the Westbank First Nation as Chief, and advocacy for legislative change to effect economic growth through Indigenous land, have earned him a reputation as a role model, mentor, and a deserving lifetime achievement recipient.”

Robert Louie and wife/partner Bernice at their winery in West Kelowna.

One of his greatest accomplishments came when he helped finalize WFN self-governance in 2005. Since then, economic growth within the reserve has grown from 110 businesses to more than 500, with close to $700 million in revenue.

“I am honoured, grateful and appreciative to receive the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Louie. “To serve, work with and support Indigenous people in economic and business ventures makes me so proud to be Indigenous.

I salute all Indigenous peoples in business.”

New Scholarship in Memory of Terry Threlfall A new scholarship is being launched to honour the memory of top sommelier and wine professional Terry Threlfall.

The seed money is coming from the Meyer Family Vineyards Tribute series program. The winery donated the funds to the Threlfall family, who have requested the donations be directed to the BC Hospitality Foundation.

Scholarship in memory of Terry Threlfall.

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Threlfall was a major force in the BC wine industry, being named Sommelier of the Year in 2012, the first Canadian to be a Decanter panelist, and head sommelier or wine buyer at Selfridge’s and London’s Michelin-starred Chez Bruce.

The Terry Threlfall Scholarship is the result of a partnership between the BCHF, the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers (CAPS), and the VIWF.

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 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

Sea Cider ‘Best in Show’ Honour at the PICC

The acclaimed cidery’s estate-grown cider, Bittersweet, was named Best of Show at this year’s awards by the Northwest Cider Association (NWCA) in Portland.

Photo credit: Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse

The Pacific Northwest is home to 150 orchard-based, small, independent, and midsized makers, and the eighth annual Portland International Cider Cup is the region’s premier judged competition.

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse from Saanich recently took home the top honour from the Portland International Cider Cup (PICC).

“Makers rely on this event for critical peer review, not to mention bar, restaurant and retail buyers who use these results for curating their cider selections,” says Ritchie.

“We’re judging one of the most prestigious apple-growing regions, and a place that puts a high value on craft culture. These awards are big,” says Emily Ritchie, Executive Director of the Northwest Cider Association.

NWCA is a non-profit supporting cidermakers in four Northwest states and British Columbia, an area recognized as one of the most innovative cider regions in the United States and Canada.

Dozens of ciders were entered in the competition, but only about a quarter won medals. The ciders that won gold then went on to compete in the Best of Show round, where the judge named Bittersweet to be the overall winner.

“We are thrilled that once again Bittersweet has been awarded Best of Show at PICC,” said

Thomas from Sea Cider with the PICC cup.

Kristen Needham, owner and cidermaster at Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse.

A Vulnerable Toad Gets Help from Summerhill

Summerhill has released three wines named after the unique Okanagan animal, inspired by master organic wine grower Ron Firman.

Firman is a dedicated friend of nature, creating breeding habitat on his farm for the vulnerable namesake Spadefoot Toads.

The label illustration is by Canadian artist Robert Bateman, who drew the amphibian especially for this series. Ten per cent of the proceeds of every sale supports the Bateman Foundation’s work to nurture the next generation of conservationists.

Photo credit: Summerland Pyramid Winery

BC wine lovers can now enjoy their favourite beverage from Summerhill Pyramid Winery while helping preserve the endangered Spadefooted Toad.

Top Honours for Okanagan Spirits Okanagan Spirits was named the Artisan Distillery of the Year and also took home three gold medals for its BRBN bourbon-style whisky, BLK BRBN cask-strength bourbon, and Black Laird of Fintry caskstrength single-malt whisky.

The distillery also earned silver medals for its Laird of Fintry single-malt and Blue Laird rum-cask finished single-malt, and a bronze for its Okanagan Spirits BC Rye Whisky.

“This has truly lifted our spirits,” said CEO Tyler Dyck. “To be honoured by Canada’s premier whisky competition.”

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 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

The Inspiring McWatters Sisters

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN VINEYARD, ORCHARD AND AGRICULTURAL REAL ESTATE VALUATIONS From our central Kelowna office, NCA Commercial Inc. is best placed to offer experienced, reliable and professional valuation and consulting services to those owning and operating agricultural land and businesses in BC’s interior.

Our team of accredited commercial real estate appraisers specializes in a variety of services including:

Photo credit: TIME Family of Wines

• market valuations for financing • property settlement & estate planning • site selection & pre-acquisition negotiation • insurance replacement cost & risk management • compensation in expropriation & partial takings • subdivision & ALR applications • arbitration & expert witness Brian Pauluzzi, B.Com., RI, AACI, MRICS Owner/Commercial Appraiser

Darrien and Christa-Lee McWatters recognized for their positive impact on North American Wine Culture.

• land leases & rent reviews • “going concern” business valuations

We invite you to call us today, or have your financial advisor contact us, if you require an accurate opinion of value.

Okanagan sisters Christa-Lee and Darrien McWatters have been named as two of the Wine Industry Network’s ‘Most Inspiring People of 2021’.

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The McWatter sisters are the daughters of Okanagan wine pioneer Harry McWatters, who sadly passed away last year. Both also work at TIME Family of Wines, which they co-founded with their legendary father.

WIN annually selects 10 industry individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, and inspiration.

In 2021, WIN received more than 100 submissions, with the editorial team narrowing it down to the 10 finalists who positively impacted North American wine culture. For the first time ever, two sisters cracked the top 10!

Christa-Lee and Darrien work as the general manager and operations manager respectively at TIME Family of Wines. Both are very are well known in British Columbia, but now the wider wine world will know their names.

This award validates what many people in the BC wine industry have already noticed, and proves that the McWatters sisters are celebrating the work first started by their father.

“Christa-Lee and Darrien McWatters manage to honour their family’s incredible history and legacy in Canadian wine, while fearlessly pushing their brands into the future,” said Kathleen Wilcox of the Wine Industry Network.”

As Wilcox explains in the recognition article, the sisters received this accolade for their ability to be adaptable and innovative, while paving the way for others.

Throughout the pandemic, the two worked to sell the winery to new owners Ron and Shelley Mayert, and update the winery with new brands, fresh new packaging, and a solid plan for expansion of the business.

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 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

Supports Expanded For Flood-Affected Residents in BC Starting Feb. 1, 2022, people affected by the flooding in fall 2021 receiving Emergency Support Services will see this support evolve to personalized wraparound services delivered by the Canadian Red Cross.

“The recent floods in British Columbia have been devastating for individuals and communities throughout the province, and we know that there is a long road ahead to full recovery. That’s why our government is committing to provide timely, robust and effective supports for the people of British Columbia,” said Bill Blair, president of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Min-

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ister of Emergency Preparedness. “We are pleased to partner with the Canadian Red Cross to help those whose lives have been impacted by the effects of floods, and we will continue to work with the Committee of British Columbia and Federal Ministers on Disaster Response and Climate Resilience to support recovery efforts.”

Through the Red Cross, the provincial and federal governments will provide personalized recovery support, including interim housing and basic needs assistance. These personalized supports will be funded by donations to the 2021 Canadian Red Cross

British Columbia Floods and Extreme Weather Appeal.

“Many people who were affected by the recent flooding haven’t been able to return home,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “We are here for you, and we’re making sure people receive the support they need and for the length of time needed, including lodging, basic needs and mental-health supports.”

British Columbians can access the Disaster Financial Assistance application online: http://www.gov.bc.ca/disasterfinancialassistance

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 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

BCFGA Expecting Crop Damage From Christmas Cold Snap BC grape and tree fruit growers expect yet another hit from the wild weather in 2021.

In addition to the deadly heat dome in June and the catastrophic floods of November, an unprecedented cold snap over the holidays has growers fearing more crop damage.

The Christmas holidays were marked by

temperatures in the -20s in the Okanagan and much of the southern BC Interior. Glen Lucas, general manager of the BC Fruit Growers Association (BCFGA) says the organization believes that extreme and sudden drop in temperature has damaged fruit trees and grape vines throughout the region.

“It does seem we’ve had some winter damage,” said Lucas. “That very deep period of cold we had just before Christmas is the concern.

“It’s too early to say how bad it could be. We are just starting some initial work, and you have to dissect the buds to really see what’s happening, and that will happen over the next couple of months as we try to find out what’s happening.”

Lucas said one reason growers research frost damage is to get a better idea of labour requirements for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, and that data needs to be available by the end of May. At the moment, the BCFGA believes it is almost certain there will be damage affecting productivity in 2022, but most of the information at this point is anecdotal. “I’ve heard grapes have been impacted but I don’t know the detail on that, as it’s mostly anecdotal information,” Lucas explained. “I also think there is concern about cherries, and some of the other soft fruit, I don’t have a read on yet, like peaches and fruit plums and so on. Apricots is a smaller crop but they are quite sensitive to cold, so I suspect there will be some impact there.”

Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor said in late December that the wild swings in weather in BC created a ‘high amplitude pattern’ that generates longer periods of wild, often disastrous weather extremes.

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“The one thing I will say about the past seasons is that we’ve had this very high-amplitude pattern,” Proctor said. “When we get these high-amplitude patterns, it’s often very difficult to shift out of it.”

Climatologists predict global warming will make these extreme weather shifts more common, and Lucas says farmers are working together with the BC government to see how they can best adapt to a more extreme climate.

“We formed a group to look at a new program called agriculture climate solutions, and it will be looking at some of these climate change questions,” he said. “We want to see what actions can we take at the farm level to make sure the trees are not impacted by a heat dome, for example. “

 PRE SPRING | NEWS & EVENTS

Apply to License Your Groundwater Use Before March 1, 2022

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BC farmers need to license their use of groundwater before March 1 to comply with the Water Sustainability Act. Licensing your groundwater use is not the same as registering your well. If you have registered your well, you still need to license your groundwater for non-domestic use under the Water Sustainability Act (WSA).

If you were using groundwater on or before February 29, 2016, for non-domestic purposes such as irrigation and livestock watering, you are legally required to apply for a water licence by March 1, 2022.

If you do not apply by the deadline, you must stop using the groundwater or you will be considered an illegal user after March 1, 2022.

You will then need to apply for a licence as a “new groundwater user” and you will be at the back of the line.

A new application may require an expensive assessment of the well indicating the impacts on the aquifer and the application may not be granted if there is not enough water.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries is offering free workshops (in-person or virtual) to producers to ensure farmers aren’t caught by the deadline.

To register, contact AgriServiceBC@gov.bc. ca or 1-888-221-7141.

The steps to apply for a license are as follows:

When one cold night can ruin an entire year’s hard work...

It’s best to play it safe.

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1. Register for a basic BC electronic identification (basic BCeID) if you don‘t have one.

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prairiecoastequipment.com Pre Spring 2022

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22 Pre Spring 2022

It’s Been a Tough Year for BC Agriculture Annual Interview with the Honourable Lana Popham BC’s Minister of Agriculture

By Tom Walker

2021 was an extremely difficult year for farmers in BC with record heat, floods, and fires. While the Ministry of Agriculture Food and Fisheries (MAFF) has been busy responding to farmer’s needs, they have also been moving ahead with several initiatives. O&V caught up with MAFF minister Lana Popham just before Christmas to look back at the year.

Pre Spring 2022

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O&V “You have been very busy helping farmers with the extreme weather events.”

Minister Popham “Yes, we were just starting to get to the bottom of the damage estimates for the heat dome when the flooding happened in November.” (For a snapshot of the damage, see sidebar)

O&V “What programs are available to help farmers recover from their loses?”

Minister Popham “We do have quite the suite of programs through our business risk management department, including Crop Insurance (also known as Production Insurance), AgriStability, and AgriRecovery. Crop insurance in particular would help significantly especially with this flooding, but we don’t see a massive up take on that program.”

We are able to back date AgriStability, so people can sign up now all the way to December 2022, but for crop insurance we use an outside international insurance broker, so we can’t change any dates on that.

We are working furiously on the AgriRecovery program that is cost shared with the federal government. We have submitted our package, and I expect that will be announced in the middle of January and the portal for applications will open. The most important thing people can be doing to prepare for that portal is to document all expenses. Receipts, and even a journal entry on a calendar, will definitely make the process go faster.

There is a lot we are even considering outside the normal slate of things that are covered. We know, for example, that berry growers are going to need some time for their plants if they need to be replanted to start producing again.”

Above: Flooding in Sumas Prairie. Right: Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture, Food

O&V “The ministry was very active over the summer and fall developing a strategy for tree fruits. Can you comment on how the process went, who was involved and the outcome?”

Minister Popham One of the things we have realized, it’s been year after year, decades, is that the fruit tree industry has been declining. We decided this is it. Either we address some of the problems, which are hard for some people to accept, or we are not going to have an industry at all.

We spoke with growers and other folks in the industry and asked, what is the best way to address governance models, transparency and modernization of the industry? We came up with a whole list of things that could be implemented. Then we took it back out to the industry and the associations and over many, many stressful meetings - and I would love to give credit to the many participants - there was an agreement that the plan we have come up with was a plan that people could support.

Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, met with farmers impacted by the flooding and mudslides in Abbotsford BC. 24 Pre Spring 2022

We have a lot to be proud of in the tree fruit industry, but we have to align ourselves in the most effective way. I am looking forward to moving ahead on some actions and we are going to go back to

Photo credits: Government of BC

and Fisheries, getting an aerial view of the damage from a helicopter.

the growers and associations often because we all have to be in this together.”

and that is going to take investing in the research. Government can also do our part on the marketing side with our Buy BC program.”

O&V

O&V

The “Path Forward” document includes 19 recommendations. Are there a couple that you believe are really key?”

“Are there recommendations that are moving towards implementation? Is there money to support them?”

Minister Popham

Minister Popham

“One of them that I think is quite key, and welcome, is supporting growers to have the best quality of product. It’s the same thing that I have been hearing since the 1990’s, having ministry experts on the ground, what has been called extension services. There has been a lack of resources within the Ministry and I think it is one of the most important things we can do.

“Figuring that out as we come up to the next budget cycle is our job, we need to make sure we have the budget. But this is the thing with this industry. If we don’t invest in the right ways right now, we are going to lose the industry. It is important for our government to make sure that we are supporting apple and other fruit tree growers because they are a good part of our economy and they are also a good part of communities. If we lose them, we lose a lot of other things that go with it, and we are not willing to do that.”

Secondly, I think that when we look at what we are replanting and what we are identifying as future market possibilities, that is one thing that has always been, I’d say, controversial. But we have to recognize what other areas of the world are growing and where we can align ourselves best in the marketplace. BC is small compared to other jurisdictions. We don’t necessarily have to identify ourselves as a niche market, but we have to be the best at what we are doing.

So looking at what we are replanting, looking at how we develop the market place for other types of varieties, is critically important

O&V “This is the second year for Raspberry replant. How is the response?”

Minister Popham “Response is excellent, but because of the floods we are going to Pre Spring 2022

25

BC Provincial Extreme Weather Damage Estimates • The tree fruit sector has a high participation rate in production insurance and they rely on the program to manage weather related risk. have a different issue with the raspberry industry. We are going to lose some acres for sure. But the raspberry growers I have had conversations with don’t want to give it up.

They haven’t had a lot of government support before, so I am happy we did that, and we will continue. I think we are looking at a budget increase for that as well.”

• Production insurance provides coverage on 13,000 acres of tree fruit orchards.

O&V

Heat Event

“Secondary housing will be allowed on ALR land beginning in the new year. How will that support BC farmers?”

Minister Popham “I think we have struck a balance between acknowledging what people are up against these days, with either needing space for farm workers or they need a mortgage helper or whatever they want. It also acknowledges that how we define what was needed by a family farm has changed over the years. We are also hoping, and I have heard a couple of reports back, that it has allowed a farm to start up because having help live right on the farm has made that happen.”

O&V “Improving worker housing was a priority going in to 2021. Any new developments?”

Minister Popham “Because of the floods, I think we have lost a lot of worker housing in the Sumas Prairie area, so we are going to have to address that. We are going to be looking for quality housing to be in its place and whether or not that is in the Sumas Prairie area or outside is yet to be seen. We continue to address the quality of housing with the Mexican consulate. I know there has been a lot of improvement over the last three years, but I think to be honest we will need to pay more attention to that as this year unfolds, we are going to have a lack of housing for sure.” ■ 26 Pre Spring 2022

• Production insurance received 1255 claims from tree fruit growers in 2021. Of those, 886 were claims for damage from the heat event.

• When all claims are finalized, it is expected to be in the region of $17 million dollars.

• 2019 and 2020 crop years were also difficult for weather related losses and production insurance paid $16.4 million and $22.5 million respectively.

• The 10-year average indemnity payment to the tree fruit sector is $9.5 million.

• Fresh market and early season individually quick frozen raspberry grades were significantly impacted by extreme heat. Fruit was sun scalded, shriveled and small.

• The BC Raspberry Council estimates raspberry crop loss due to the extreme heat was around 35%.

• Early and mid-season blueberry varieties in the Central and Eastern Fraser Valley were damaged due to the extreme heat. Crop loss was variable by farm and by variety, with some farms losing 10-30% of their crop.

• The BC Blueberry Council is reporting a total crop of 140 million pounds for 2021. This is down from previous years and below the potential production for BC (estimated potential of 200 million pounds), however poor pollination was a contributing factor to reduced yields.

• Production insurance received 135 claims of heat damage from berry growers across the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland.

• To date $4.85 million dollars has been paid to berry growers.

• Not all berry growers purchase production insurance so the actual damages will not be reflective of the impact to the entire industry.

Flood Event • There were approximately 2200 acres of blueberries, 80 acres of raspberries/ blackberries and over 15 acres of strawberries on the Sumas Prairie that were impacted by the flooding. Some of these fields remained under water for more than three weeks.

• Fields on the Sumas Prairie were impacted by both extreme heat in June and flooding in November.

• Production insurance has received 77 claims of flood damage to berry crop and plants from the November flood event.

• It is still too early to quantify damage and potential payments, but production insurance will be working with producers as they return to their operations.

Fire and Smoke Impacts and Claims • Production insurance received very few claims for damage from fire or smoke damage from grape growers and wineries.

• No appreciable crop loss or loss in grape juice quality was reported however, one claim was paid to a grower with smoke taint from a nearby wildfire.

19 Recommendations to Rebuild Tree Fruit Industry

By Gary Symons The provincial government has made 19 recommendations to rebuild declining sectors of the BC tree fruit industry.

Agriculture minister Lana Popham says the apple industry in particular has been in decline, and tree fruit farming as a whole faces structural issues that put the entire sector at risk.

“One of the things we have realized - it’s been year after year, decades - is that the fruit tree industry has been declining,” Popham said. “We decided this is it. Either we address some of the problems, which are hard for some people to accept, or we are not going to have an industry at all.”

While some of the recommendations may be controversial, the BC Fruit Growers Association says the decline in apple production is a sign the industry needs to change.

“However, there were at the outset linkages made between the decline of one sector, and the possibility of those same problems overflowing into other sectors such as grapes and cherries, and that’s why the study does focus on apples but the scope is all tree fruits and it actually includes grapes as well.”

Lucas explains that while grapes and cherries have seen high prices and profitable crops, the same issues facing apple growers face all farmers. A decline in demand or prices, he said, could put those growers in the same position faced by apple growers today.

For that reason, Popham says the government believes action must be taken to stabilize and balance all sectors so that price fluctuations don’t imperil the entire tree fruit industry in the coming years.

“It’s important for our government to make sure that we are supporting apple and other fruit tree growers because they are a good part of our economy and they are also a

Photo by Gary Symons

“There are 19 recommendations and we support the specific recommendations in the report,” said BCFGA general manager Glen Lucas. “The impetus is the downturn in apple returns over the past four years, and in fact there has been a reduction in apple acreage over those four years of about 15 per cent.

good part of communities,” said Popham. “If we lose them, we lose a lot of other things that go with it, and we are not willing to do that.”

The tree fruit sector includes a variety of commodities concentrated in the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Creston valleys, with an estimated 800 growers farming approximately 14,000 acres planted in apples and cherries and 10,000 acres planted in grapes.

Ministry research shows the sector contributed $201 million to BC’s GDP in 2019, of which $114 million was labour income from 2,500 jobs across B.C. The preliminary results also suggest that economic activity generated $27 million in provincial taxes and $6 million in local government taxes.

But despite this economic activity, the ministry is concerned “the challenges facing apple farmers will expand to impact B.C.’s cherry and wine grape farmers and potentially other crops as apple farmers remove their

apple trees and replace them with cherries and/or wine grapes.

“This could negatively impact BC’s reputation as a leading exporter of tree fruit,” the report says. “If these challenges continue, declines in export and domestic sales are likely, which would negatively impact the provincial economy.”

Lucas agrees with that assessment, saying balance is needed to ensure all sectors can flourish in BC. “Growing any commodity on land that is not appropriate is, in the long term, probably not viable,” he said. “If we get the economics of the apple sector improved that would lead to more crops being grown on land that is best suited for it. People would make decisions on the best productivity rather than on the current price for a particular crop.”

The ministry’s approach is outlined in the 19 recommendations (see sidebar), but in general is designed to increase support for Pre Spring 2022

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Recommendations From “The Path Forward: A Blueprint for BC’s Tree Fruit Industry” 1) Create a new agency to provide leadership, governance and planning.

2) Develop new data strategy for the sector.

3) Develop a comprehensive labour strategy.

4) Enhance support of horticulture and extension services.

5) Establish comprehensive process to develop and market new varieties.

Photo by Gary Symons

6) Create a 5-10 year Market Development Strategy.

7) Implement a retail Code of Practice.

8) Create globally competitive fruit quality standards, similar to the VQA model. farmers in ways that would impact all growers of tree fruits and grapes.

For example, Lucas says the labour issues facing cherry or grape growers are the same as those faced by apple farmers. Within Canada there is an imbalance of labour and supply and demand that has been addressed through the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). That program saw a balance created between supply and demand by 2019, but the balance was significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lucas says the SAWP program still needs improvement to deal with a crisis, and to ensure particularly that smaller farms are not left in the lurch, as worker hires are dominated by larger operations that can provide more hours of work. For that reason, Lucas has drafted a new agricultural labour framework for consideration by the ministry and by growers.

Another change would see the BCFGA and likely other industry associations taking a step back in terms of governance for the sector, something Lucas has welcomed.

“It’s a rebalancing of activities and services we provide to the whole sector, and it’s rebalancing that so we would be less involved in the pan-agriculture programs and services, but moving more towards benefits that are for BCFGA members alone,” he explained. “We’ve been making that movement for years.”

28 Pre Spring 2022

One example of that change is that the BCFGA no longer takes the lead on the Tree Fruit Competitiveness Fund, but instead creates projects within the fund to benefit its members.

The recommendations, if adopted, would see another agency created to take the lead on overall programs for the entire sector, while the BCFGA and other organizations would work with that new agency.

Popham says the process is aimed at creating a stronger industry that focuses on the strengths of the BC industry, and allows it to thrive. Popham notes that BC’s industry is much smaller than some of its competitors in the US, China, and parts of Latin America, so the province has to focus on providing superior quality and products.

“We have to recognize what other areas of the world are growing and where we can align ourselves best in the marketplace,” Popham explains. “BC is small compared to other jurisdictions. We don’t necessarily have to identify ourselves as a niche market, but we have to be the best at what we are doing, so looking at what we are replanting, looking at how we develop the market place for other types of varieties, is critically important and that is going to take investing in the research. Government can also do our part on the marketing side with our Buy BC program.” ■

9) Determine how innovation and technology can support the sector.

10) Assess the Sterile Insect Release program, and consider new funding model.

11) Develop local irrigation systems to better address drought and climate change.

12) Provide one-time support to farmers in financial distress.

13) Realign financial contributions to the industry, supporting sound business management practices.

14) Funding from the Tree Fruit Competitiveness Program to support initiatives with a sound business rationale.

15) Support industry efforts for a replant program for “commercially viable” varieties suitable for local climate.

16) Work to improve understanding of ministry programs.

17) Establish a method to identify “bona fide,” active farmers, as opposed to people who own land used for non-agricultural purposes.

18) Ensure crop production is the primary use of ALR land and support opportunities to make farmers financially viable.

19) Work with local governments to coordinate support for the industry.

Southwest Flooding

Kindness Prevails as Cleanup Begins Many growing regions were hard hit

by November’s floods, including the Fraser Valley where nature attempted to restore Sumas Lake.

By Ronda Payne Anyone in BC who questioned the impacts of climate change was likely silenced by the atmospheric rivers that fell on the province in mid-November 2021.

Prior to the record-smashing deluge, the term atmospheric river was only used in meteorological circles. Now, people throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Nicola Valley and beyond associate the phrase with disaster.

Photo by Ronda Payne

Record volumes of rain fell as the province was hit by three atmospheric river events, one after the other. The unprecedented storm washed away highways, kicked over bridges, breached century-old dikes, and overwhelmed pumps as homes were destroyed, farms were flooded, and animals were evacuated or died in their fields and barns.

Perhaps the hardest hit agricultural area was Sumas Prairie, formerly Sumas Lake.

Caroline Morstertman (co-owner of Ripples) and volunteer helper Abe Gotzke.

Drained from 1920 to 1924 to create valuable farmland, the region flooded 100 years later as the Fraser River flooded, and waters from the Nooksack River breached a critical dike. Productive farmland, homes and businesses were under more than eight feet of water in some areas. Most property owners are left without insurance due to the region being in a floodplain.

Ripples Winery Overwhelmed with Help

Photo credit: Ripples Estate Winery

The hardest hit farms were primarily those with dairy cattle, poultry, and various berry crops. Among the latter, Caroline Mostertman, co-owner of Ripples Winery and New Wave Distilling, was in shock at first as her blueberry and grape winery and the berry farm were buried under a tide of muddy water. Who wouldn’t be, with water lapping up around the top of door frames?

The breach of a critical dike practically submerged the Ripples Estate Winery in November.

“The positive side is that we have been inundated with people to help us,” she says. “It’s Pre Spring 2022

29

Photo credits: Ripples Estate Winery

Before the flood.

friends, it’s ex-employees. You have to realize that 50 people lost their jobs just on the farm alone. They’re all coming back. It’s just been amazing, the community support. That’s my takeaway from this. It’s been such an amazing experience to see how this community has come together and helped people.”

But the help was hard to acclimatize to at first. When all the volunteers showed up and Mostertman looked around at the devastation of the 20-acre winery, distillery, nursery, pond supply store and homestead, it was impossible to take action.

“The first day that people came, it was a small army that descended on us. It was so overwhelming to me. I went and hid in my greenhouse for the better part of the day. My husband and I were shellshocked,” she explains. “The next day, I was a little bit more prepared.

By day three, I was able to make decisions and organize people and direct people. I’ve learned to say yes and thank you. It’s not an easy thing to learn as a farmer.”

The Extent of Losses The brand-new winery hadn’t even had its final inspection when it was filled with three feet of flood water. Other areas, like the old winery, the tasting room and the nursery store had water six feet deep. Spirits tanks from the distillery floated, hit other debris and lost their contents or were breached. Pallets of wine and spirits collapsed, wine tanks spouted.

Mostertman estimates the losses in the millions, especially if the blueberries and grapes have been killed.

“If we have to replant all our fruit, then indeed it is millions,” she says.

“It’s too early to tell. We won’t know that until spring. They’ve been underwater for the better part of three weeks.”

If the grape and berry plants aren’t able to produce, the Mostertmans will lose their ability to create alcohol, and with it, their manufacturing licence and the accompanying licensed endorsements of the picnic area and lounge. Even if the vines and bushes survive, they will have had, as she puts it, “a hell of a kicker.”

Other Vineyards Okay, Berries Took a Beating No other vineyards appear to have been impacted by the atmo30 Pre Spring 2022

Photos before the flood contrast with the devastation after water and mud poured

spheric rivers according to Tyrion Miskell, administrator with the BC Grape Growers’ Association. Many responded to the organization’s request for a check-in with none reporting flood issues.

Berry growers didn’t fare so well. The BC Blueberry Council reported that while Sumas Prairie was hit hardest, Matsqui Flats also flooded as did Hatzic and other localized areas. Approximately 2,500 acres were impacted, with 1,000 severely impacted.

One of the localized flood areas was Karnail Singh’s blueberry farm in Cloverdale. His son, Purdip Sekhon spoke about the excessive water seen at their four locations totaling 150 planted acres.

At the outset of the first atmospheric river, Sekhon knew the situation was different.

“The volume of rain over that period of time, the fields just couldn’t handle it. We couldn’t get into our fields,” he says. “They were already wet, full of water. It was a combination of things. It was high tide, so the water had nowhere to go, so it just had to sit there.”

Now, as the water is receding, the family still deals with flooded patches and they can’t get machinery into the fields to dig trenches. Some standing water is normal, but this is definitely exceptional.

Losses Pile Up on the Prairie Unfortunately, Dossett says strawberries and cane berries are unlikely to survive such significant flooding and lack of oxygen. Curtis Sandhu of Farmers Fresh Quality Produce (Sandhu Farms) agrees, saying his 25 acres of berries on the Sumas Prairie are “done.”

“In the fields, in the low spots we had eight feet [of water],” he says.

“Our house [had] about four feet. It’s disgusting. An inch of mud lining every square foot of the property.”

In addition to berries, the farm also grows vegetables. Sandhu feels the vegetable fields will be fine, but knows that he will have to replant berries and do soil testing to ensure the balance is restored for good growth.

“It’s a full tear out and replant,” he says. “It will be two years until we get a crop. Three years until we’re at full production.”

While the Sandhus are one of the lucky families to have some insurance, it doesn’t cover everything and it certainly won’t cover losses estimated to be in the millions.

into the Ripples Estate Winery building.

After the flood.

“We were lucky in that the water did come up, but our buildings are all okay,” he says. “We’re doing pruning when we can get into our fields. We have little windows when we can go in and do the work, but for the most part, we have to wait until they dry out.”

Blueberry Production Will Take Years To Recover Michael Dossett, breeder and geneticist with BC Berry Cultivar Development says many factors will determine how blueberry plants fare.

“I suspect that even after three weeks under water, most mature blueberry fields that were healthy going into this will survive with the caveat that there may be significant damage to fruiting wood above ground,” he says. “The best course of action for those plants will be to stump the field at 18 to 24 inches.”

This drastic pruning will eliminate the 2022 crop and will see a reduced crop in the subsequent year or two.

“By June or July it will be apparent which fields have vigour and will bounce back and which ones won’t,” he says. “We won’t know until plants wake up.”

Before the flood.

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Photo by Ronda Payne

Flooded Fraser Valley fields.

“The tractors are a write-off. Water got into the cab of the tractors,” he says. “The older ones that we have that don’t have any computers, we can salvage those.”

Other equipment is still in question and due to the toxic water, everything is corroding.

“After two weeks it’s already rusting,” he says. “Things that sit outside for years without rusting, and they are already rusting.”

Financial Help Has Started Although not everyone has the ability to volunteer like the helpers at Ripples Winery,

the desire to contribute is strong. Danielle Synotte, executive director with the BC Agriculture Council notes the organization set up the Fund for Farmers in mid-November in response to those looking for a way to support farmers and ranchers facing losses.

BCAC member organizations will be instrumental in the process. This is also why BCAC continues to be instrumental in connecting member organization boards with various governments and stakeholders to discuss needs and facilitate communication.

“We are industry, working for industry. It’s important to note that a dollar in is a dollar out,” she says. “We don’t do this all the time.

This is a unique case.”

It’s a long road ahead for farmers and growers impacted by flooding. In a year that has already been unkind, it’s best to look for the silver linings as Mostertman has. Appreciating the kindness and support of others is the best way to maintain sanity in the face of disaster. ■

While distribution of funds is not yet established as it will take time to see what happens around the province, Synotte says

www.avenuemachinery.ca

32 Pre Spring 2022

The Tractor Survey – Orchard & Vine Readers Talk Tractors Tractors have been the farmer’s single most important piece of equipment since the first steam engine models were built in England in the 1840s.

ONLY

3%

Today, with the advent of precision spraying and automated systems, the tractor is more important than ever.

OF RESPONDENTS DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY FLOODS

This month in Orchard & Vine we are taking our annual look at tractors designed for the grape and orchard farmers, as well as publishing the results of our tractor survey.

Photo credit: Wines of British Columbia

Work in orchards brings unique challenges for famers, as the rows are narrow, the land is often hilly and uneven, and farms often have tight space for turning around.

As a result, orchardists use very specific equipment for working with their highly sensitive crops. Typically narrow but with advanced systems to increase stability and a tight turning circle, the tractors for this sector are a special breed, just like the people who drive them in the fields of British Columbia.

To help those looking for a new or slightly used tractor this year, we’ve collected the data and specs on all of the major lines of tractors designed for work in orchards and vineyards. The list includes the newest machines from Antonio Carraro, Deutz Fahr, John Deere, Kioti, Kubota, Mahindra, Massey Ferguson and New Holland. ■

How many acres do you farm?

MAYBE YES

16%

26%

32 % 10 Acres and under

NO 32 % 11-25 Acres

19 % 26-99 Acres

16 % 100 + Acres

58%

Will you purchase a tractor or other farm machinery this year?

51%

Have Noticed an Increase in Prices for Tractors and Machinery

51%

Have Noticed a Shortage of Available Equipment and Inventory Pre Spring 2022

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What are your plans for 2022?

Down size, getting close to retirement.

Some replanting and new planting. Building a warehouse and renovating a house on the main property.

Similkameen Valley Okanagan apples.

Increase irrigation. Right now we have a single drip line for our blueberries. I want to run an additional line to protect the plants from drought.

Continuing as usual barring any unforeseen pandemic incidents.

Larch Hills Winery

We are hoping to become more strictly organized and to use new ergonomics to assist our farm flow.

Managing winter bud damage in the vines.

Planting, new irrigation, new staff, if I can get them.

Eau Vivre Winery & Vineyards

Photo credits: Wines of British Columbia

No major infrastructure changes. Just growing grape vines as per usual.

25 acre vineyard planting.

Harper’s Trail Estate Winery

Replanting, retraining after the cold damage. Gearing up to focus on soil health in a year with not much crop.

Backyard Vineyards

34 Pre Spring 2022

TRACTOR

SPECS

2022

Manufacturer

Antonio Carraro

Antonio Carraro

Deutz Fahr

Model

SN5800V

Mach 4

5080DS

Engine Hp

50 Hp

75 Hp

75 Hp

PTO

540E

98 Hp

Fuel Tank (imp. gal.)

40 litres

50 litres

14 gallons

Transmission

12x12 Synchronized Reverser

16+16 Synchronized Reverser

30+15 or 45+45

Steering

Hydraulic Steering

Hydraulic Power

Hydrostatic

Brakes

Hydraulic rear oil bath

Hydr Brakes in oil bath

4 wheel Brake Disc

Wheelbase

1530 mm / 60.2"

59.2"

80"

Minimum Width

98cm / 39"

51.5"

49"

Weight

1600 Kgs. / 3527 lbs.

3200 Kgs/7054 lbs.

5926-6657 lbs.

Driving Wheels

4x4

Tracks

4WD

Website

www.antoniocarraro.it/en/

www.antoniocarraro.it/en/

www.deutz-fahr.com

Find Professional Services and Suppliers

BUYER’S GUIDE Do you have quality products or services?

List your company online today!

2022 Buyer’s Guide Print Directory + Online Quality professionals with knowledge, expertise and dedication to this industry.

Orchard & Vine Buyer’s Guide

Call 778-754-7078 info@orchardandvine.net

www.orchardandvine.net Pre Spring 2022

35

TRACTOR

SPECS

2022

Manufacturer

John Deere

John Deere

John Deere

Kioti

Model

5GN

5GV

5075GL

CX2510

Engine Hp

75,90,100 Hp

75,90 Hp

73 Hp

24.5 Hp

PTO Hp

70-95 Hp

70-85 Hp

61 Hp

19.3 Hp

Fuel Tank (imp. gal.)

19.3-22.7 gal.

19.3-22.7 gal.

22.7 gal 85.9 L

6.6 gal.

Transmission

24F/12R PowrReverser

24F/12R PowrReverser

24F/12R PowrReverser

Manual/Hydrostatic

Steering

Hydrostatic

Hydrostatic

Hydrostatic

Power Steering

Brakes

Wet Disc

Wet Disc

Multi Disc Rear Braking

Wet Disc

Wheelbase

82.6"

82.6”

82.5”

59.8"

Minimum Width

49.5”"

39"

53.6”

49.4"

Weight

5567-6559 lbs.

5379-6052 lbs.

OOS:5577 lb Cab: 6051 lb

2260 lbs.

Driving Wheels

MFWD

2WD or MFWD

4WD

4WD

Website

www.johndeere.ca

www.johndeere.ca

www.johndeere.ca

www.kioti.com

5090GN

AG CENTRE: Chilliwack 44725 Yale Road West, 604-792-1301

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TRACTOR

SPECS

2022

Manufacturer

Kubota

Kubota

Kubota

Kubota

Model

LX3310 Cab or Rops

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M4N-071 Cab or Rops

M5N-091 or -111 Cab or Rops

Engine Hp

30.8 Hp

57 Hp

72.6 Hp

95/108 Hp

PTO Hp

27 Hp

46.5 Hp

61 Hp

78/91 Hp

Fuel Tank (imp. gal.)

8.4 gallons

13.5 gallons

20.1 gallons

20.1 gallons

Transmission

Hydrostatic

HST or Gear

Electro-Hydraulic Shuttle 12X12 Electro-Hydraulic Shuttle 12X12

Steering

Power

Hydrostatic Power

Hydrostatic Power

Hydrostatic Power

Brakes

Wet Disc

Mechanical Wet Disc

Hydraulic Wet Disc

Hydraulic Wet Disc

Wheelbase

65.5"

74.6"

83.9"

Power Crawler Optional

Minimum Width

53.7"

69.7"

48"

48"

Weight

2557 lbs.

3474/3716 lbs.

5291 lbs. (cab)

5622 lbs (cab)

Driving Wheels

Ag

4WD (2 wd Rops only)

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TRACTOR

SPECS

2022

Manufacturer

Mahindra

Mahindra

Massey Ferguson

Model

1640HST Cab

2545 Shuttle Cab

2607H

Engine Hp

38.7 Hp

44 Hp

74 Hp

PTO Hp

27.7 Hp

28 Hp

64 Hp

Fuel Tank (imp. gal.)

29 L 7.66 gal.

9 gal.

14.5 gal.

Transmission

HST

Sync, Shuttle W/Part Synchro

8 x 8 Syncro-Shuttle

Steering

Hydrostatic

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76.9"

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52"

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1645 kg 3627 lbs.

3781 lbs.

5269 lbs.

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4x4

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2 WD or 4WD

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mahindracanada.ca

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TRACTOR

SPECS

2022

Manufacturer

Massey Ferguson

New Holland

New Holland

Model

2850E HST

T4F

T3.80F

Engine Hp

48.8 Hp

74/106 Hp

74hp

PTO Hp

39 Hp

65/93 Hp

60 Hp

Fuel Tank (imp. gal.)

14 gal.

25 gal.

Transmission

HST

16 X 16

12x12 mechanical shuttle

Steering

Power

Supersteer FWD Axle

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Brakes

Wet Disc

Wet Disc

Wet Disc

96”

73"

6243/6614 lbs.

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Weight

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 SAFETY TIPS | WORKSAFEBC

Safety Procedures For Working Around Tractors

T

ractors are one of the most useful and dangerous pieces of farm equipment. When working with tractors, it is crucial for operators to follow safety procedures to minimize serious injuries or even fatalities.

•W hen driving, make turns on level ground whenever possible and avoid soft shoulders •W hen getting off the machine, disengage the PTO, turn off the tractor, and ensure the parking brake is on and operating effectively before you dismount

•W hen operating a tractor with a frontend loader, keep the bucket low when travelling and turning – never get off the tractor seat with the bucket raised Find resources and safety videos at worksafebc.com/agriculture

Proper education, training, and supervision is essential Seasonal and new workers are particularly vulnerable and at higher risk of injury when operating tractors and other hazardous equipment. If you’re an employer, you’re responsible for making sure your workers understand the hazards of their job and have been trained on how to operate tractors and other equipment safely.

Follow these safety procedures when operating a tractor or other equipment

Roll-over protective structures (ROPS) and seat belts save lives

• A ssess the work and ensure you are using the right piece of equipment for the job • R ead and make sure you understand the operator’s manual • C heck to ensure the tractor is in good working condition before you operate it • Always make sure all PTO shields and guards are in place and are in good condition • E nsure the rollover protective structure (ROPS) is up, and always wear your seatbelt • E nsure the tractor brakes are in good condition, working well in both directions (forward and reverse), and are properly locked for higher speeds • A lways drive at a safe speed and be familiar with the terrain slopes and conditions • A lways review the conditions of your work area for irregularities such as holes or other obstacles • E nsure all loads are properly secured, including large bales, and any objects being raised are at the level of the operator

We’re working with you to make sure all farmers go home safe.

For resources and videos on safe equipment operation, visit worksafebc.com/agriculture.

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 THE WORD ON WINE | KELLY JOSEPHSON

The Premier Wine Course For BC Hospitality Now Available Online! boast of a ‘BC Wine Ambassador Certified’’ staff available to cater to their guests with the best service possible. For BC wine lovers and industry professionals, the Ambassador Program courses offer the opportunity to level-up their BC wine knowledge and bolster their resume.

A

s BC’s leading trade association, Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) not only seeks to promote BC wine through their efforts, but also to create legions of passionate BC wine champions in the process. While for BC wine lovers and industry professionals alike advocating a product they truly believe in comes naturally, WGBC is here to provide an educational tool to assist.

For winery tasting rooms, restaurants, retail, and hotels this means the opportunity to

After the encouraging success of the in-person Ambassador Program course curriculum, WGBC recognized the need to broaden accessibility by offering the Introductory Level One online. Through a partnership with Okanagan College and extensive consultation with industry experts, Wine Growers BC is proud to announce that online access is officially launching in the Spring of 2022!

“A BC Wine Ambassador is a curator, a champion of BC wine,” says Laura Kittmer, Communications Director for Wine Growers British Columbia. “Someone who, with one glance at a label, can tell a story, for they

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know each bottle of 100% BC wine delivers a diverse sensory experience that is as extraordinary as the province itself. Every sip reflects the dedication of the people that created it and the land from which it was crafted.”

To register for Ambassador Program Level 1 Certification visit WineBC.com/Industry/ Level-One. Wine Growers BC is proud to support the vibrant BC wine industry by presenting the Ambassador Program to increase local and global awareness of BC as a premium wine region that is unlike anywhere else in the world. Level One of the program provides the basics to understand the key elements that make BC so unique and worth getting in your glass, including the topics of regional characteristics and history, top varieties and styles, food pairing and more. Level One is a prerequisite for the deeper dive offered in Level Two, registration available on WineBC.com. Looking ahead, WGBC plans to offer the most in-depth and comprehensive Level Three exclusively in-person to an intimate group of accepted applicants each year.

Ultimately, the Ambassador Program is positioned to become the premier certification of exclusively BC-focused wine knowledge for BC wine lovers and industry professionals, as well as a tool to promote and uplift all businesses within the sphere of BC wine and hospitality. ■ Kelly Josephson, Communications Manager, Wine Growers B.C. Learn more at WineBC.com

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 MARKETING MIX | LEEANN FROESE

Tips and Tricks For Working With a Wine Agent

T

his is a marketing column, so you might think “does sales come under marketing?” and the answer is… sort of.

If you’re a new reader to this column, marketing is the process of getting people interested in the goods being sold. Sales are all activities that lead to the selling of goods and services.

But we can dig into that another time. Here, I’m going with the idea that a sales article belongs (as many people think of sales and marketing synonymously), as the end objective for both sales and marketing is to move the merchandise!

So, how and where are you selling your beverage alcohol?

Most BC wineries, cideries, and breweries (suppliers) have the same channels: onsite, to clubs or subscription lists, on your website, to retail stores, and

on-premise outlets (restaurants, pubs, and hotels).

then determine which agencies match that goal.

Depending on the size of your organization, those responsible for sales on the team can handle onsite sales and customer service, and a team member or department may be dedicated to look after the direct-to-consumer and mailing list sales.

There is no industry standard, but if you want to sell 1,000 cases for example, an agency with five or six sales reps who service around 1,000 retail accounts could be a better choice compared to an agency who has two reps who service around 300 accounts.

When it comes to B2B (business-to-business) sales in the trade, some suppliers have owners or staff that work on their own sales in the market, and the rest hire a sales agency.

There are advantages to working with a sales agent and we have helped some of our BC winery clients secure agents.

As specialists, these companies know how to navigate the different channels, and have established relationships with the buyers and managers. With their strong contacts, they can open doors for you. But, how to choose the agency that is right for you?

If you are a small to midsize supplier with limited production, then you need to decide if your business would be a good match to a similarly small, boutique distributor who can better identify with growing brands, or whether a large agency may have the resources and multiple-geography footprint to

streamline logistics.

Smaller wineries may find that smaller agencies tend to focus mainly on smaller accounts, where small producers can thrive.

That’s a lot of “small,” but sometimes the small, top tier on-premise accounts can really build a brand through exposure to the right kind of consumer.

Larger agencies are not always in the business of growing something, so larger may be a better fit once you are a bit more established and will be an asset to them.

There are other pros and cons to the agency size: with a larger agency you might not be able

Determine your Distribution Objectives and Agency Size Set your sales goals. How many cases do you want to sell? Know your maximum case goal and

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AGRICULTURAL NETTING & FABRICS

to move as quickly, since there are more people and more logistics to deal with. With a smaller one, you can maybe do things more quickly in some instances, but you likely trade off speed for a lesser reach.

With a smaller sales team, you might get a listing, but if they don’t have a large enough team that can continue to service the account, you can lose your listing.

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Lynette Faye, agency principal at KIS Consulting, founded in 2007, notes that is it important for a winery and agency to talk objectives from the onset. “What does success look like?” she asked. “Volume/ brand awareness/channel?”

Is It a Good Fit? Faye adds “Do they actually want to work with an agency? This might sound quite silly,” she notes, “but I have come across so many companies that really don’t know how the agency model works and once they do, it is not what they want.

“They do not understand that while this is a partnership, as an agency we do represent other brands as well,” she continues. “If you are not willing to share, then an agency might not be for you.”

Raymond Wong, principal/owner at Harvest Select Wines agency, agrees with Faye, “There is no exclusivity,” he says, “an agent has more than one winery represented.”

Looking at the agency’s overall portfolio is a crucial step in determining if your brand fits. Look at some of their priority brands. Can you see your brand alongside them and getting its fair share of attention? Also looking into the business practices of an agency and the other brands it carries can help you learn if that agency aligns with your core values.

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Wong has been selling wine, beer, cider, and spirits for more than 25 years. He notes that “both the winery and the agent must work together, especially if it is a new winery. The winery must provide as much information as possible about their vineyard and winemaking.”

Agencies need their suppliers to be partners that are going to join them on the road, to connect and educate both the sales teams, and customers. And agencies also need marketing support.

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Cost of Doing Business with an Agent Depending on your volume you will need to budget for the distribution model (warehouse fees/shipping/fuel surcharge), as well as sales commission. These should be separate budget line items, and they all add to the sales cost.

What is your marketing budget? “…and yes you need one,” says Faye. “I can sell in the first case, but how are they planning to ensure pull through, especially now with no in-store tastings?”

Plan to spend on marketing and advertising, and any available in store programs. But that brings us back to marketing, so we can tackle that another time. ■

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Leeann Froese owns Town Hall Brands – a marketing and graphic design agency that specializes in branding and promoting in the areas of beverage alcohol, food, and hospitality. See more at townhallbrands. com or on social @townhallbrands

 SEEDS OF GROWTH | GLEN LUCAS

Creating an Improved Framework for Farm Labour However, post-2019 issues have emerged that complicated the supply-demand balance for labour: Increasing intervention of government agencies has led to regulatory burdens and delays.

H

orticultural farm operations in the Okanagan are labour intensive, but the supply of domestic labour for agriculture (e.g. the number of Canadian farm workers) is in long-term decline due to demographic and other economic reasons.

At the same time the acreage of the most labour intensive crop - cherries - is growing.

Grape acreage is also growing.

Although apple acreage is falling, by about 15% over the past three years, overall demand for agricultural labour is increasing in the Okanagan. A labour strategy will address the imbalance between labour supply and demand.

Prior to the introduction of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program in 2008, labour shortages were emerging in the Okanagan horticulture sector.

With the ability to bring in temporary foreign workers from Mexico and the Caribbean, labour supply came into balance between 2008 to 2019.

A new government in Mexico and other challenges has led to a pause in the growth of workers supplied by the Mexican SAWP program at about 3,500 workers in the Okanagan, though the Caribbean program (while starting from a smaller base) has grown over 50% in two years to 1,500 workers.

It is important to note that these trends are not matched in other provinces, and one difference is the location of the Jamaican Liaison Service in Kelowna. In fact, essentially all Caribbean workers in BC are located in the Okanagan, whereas only onehalf of the Mexican workers in BC are located in the Okanagan.

A lack of direct flights from the Caribbean to Kelowna is creating problems under COVID-19.

COVID-19 travel restrictions and other requirements, and many related issues, led to an arrival rate of 80 to 90% of those workers requested and approved in LMIAs. Though this is a reduction in available workers, the outcome could have been

The BC Fruit Growers’ Association supports research projects for the tree fruit sector by: 1. direct contributions to projects, 2. participating in the national research cluster, and 3. planning for participation in the new Agriculture Climate Solutions program

much worse without extreme effort by agriculture organizations and governments. A key part of protecting workers from COVID-19 infection was the two week centralized quarantine provided by the province.

Additionally, an inspection of housing to review adoption of COVID-19 protocols on farms was carried out by BCMAFF. COVID-19 travel restrictions halted the International Experience Program (work visas for Australian and Eastern European youth tourists, or ‘backpackers’) in 2020 and greatly restricted the program in 2021. The usual 300-500 IEP backpackers were not available in 2020 and 2021.

COVID-19 travel restrictions, government wage assistance programs, and increased competition from at-home Quebec employers reduced the number of Quebecoise youth backpackers. It is estimated that the number of Quebec youth backpackers was reduced from about 1,000 to 500 for 2020 and 2021. The same rationale for reduced numbers also applies to local workers in 2020 and 2021, where the shortfall is also estimated to be reduced from 1,000 to 500.

Taken together, the shortfall in the number of seasonal work-

ers in the Okanagan dropped by 1,600, or 30.4% of the total seasonal agricultural workforce of 6,900.

Offsetting this drop in labour supply were crop shortfalls that occurred because of frost damage to the 2020 cherry crop and heat damage to the 2020 cherry crop, with reductions of about 25% in the crop size. Apple volumes were not as affected by weather, but apple acreage has reduced by 15% over the past four years. Grapes and apples can have longer harvest windows than cherries, where harvest and post-harvest movement of the cherry crop is much more time- and labour-sensitive.

Overall labour supply was inadequate but disaster was averted by reduced crops in 2020 and 2021. Some crops were abandoned or downgraded due to extended harvest caused by short labour supply.

For the immediate future, a key action identified is an estimate of normal harvest labour requirements, an estimate of the 2021/2022 winter frost impact on yields and an adjusted labour requirement for 2022. A longer-term projection of harvest labour needs should be developed and the estimate updated as needed using the

Did you know?

BCFGA supports research projects including: • Peach thinning • Post harvest storage • Optimized netting systems for low pesticide inputs • Monitoring pests including Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Apple Clearwing Moth, Eye Spotted Bud Moth, including the development of Degree Day Models

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methodology developed for the short term harvest labour requirements.

How Labour Initiatives are Organized As part of the consultative process for the Tree Fruit Stabilization Initiative, an on-line consultation was held on May 12, 2021, attended by organizations involved in labour programs and services.

The main outcome of the meeting was agreement that the current processes in place for the Temporary Foreign Worker programs are suitable for managing the evolution of the TFW programs. A consensus also emerged that a desirable goal would be a pathway to immigration for interested foreign nationals that have adequate experience in the TFW programs.

The structure and responsibility of the labour organizations will continue to evolve and grow as they have in the past. The BCFGA has proposed that our Labour Committee will become the WALI Okanagan Subcommittee, made up of members of the WALI advisory committee (also known as the BCAC Labour Committee) representatives on the sub-committee. The composition of the WALI Okanagan Labour Committee will better match the scope of the work that was previously done by the BCFGA Labour Committee.

There are many partner organizations engaged in improving the labour supply and anticipating labour demand for farms. The main organizations engaged (i.e. excluding COVID-19 participation) are: •C HC - Labour Committee •C anadian Federation of Agriculture •C anadian Agriculture Human Resources Council

• BC Agricultural Council, Labour Committee • Western Agricultural Labour Initiative (WALI) • WALI Okanagan Labour Sub-committee (proposed) • Domestic Worker Advisory Committee, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food • Migrant Worker Support Network, Employment and Social Development Canada • AgSafeBC In addition, there are many Canadian and BC government organizations involved in labour, including: 1) Federal and Provincial government • Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), TFW Program policy, operations, and inspection services, • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), TFW work visas • Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), TFW entry • BC Ministry of Labour, Employment Standards Branch/TFW Employer and Recruiter Registry • WorksafeBC • BC Ministry of Agriculture, Labour Unit • BC Ministry of Health (workcamp housing and communicable disease)

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2) Regional government regulators: health, building and fire safety.

3) Foreign governments are also involved in the TFW programs • F oreign Ministry’s of Labour (Mexico and 11 Caribbean countries) •M exico Vancouver Consulate •C aribbean Liaison Services (4) • F oreign recruiters for TFW - Ag Stream (not a government agency, but regulated by federal and provincial governments) Although the number and relationships is complex, the TFW program has operated for over 60 years in Canada and has a demonstrated track record of providing essential workers for the horticultural sector.

The TFW programs continue to evolve as conditions change.

In the Labour Framework developed by the BCFGA (with the able assistance by Reg Ens, General Manager of WALI) and presented to the BCMAFF Tree Fruit Stabilization Initiative Advisory Committee on January 20, there are 24 recommendations for action.

The recommended action #17 will be a priority for the BCFGA: A study of the US H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers Program transfer process between primary and secondary farm employers will be studied and possibly development of a pilot program for the benefit of farms that are not large enough to participate in the current SAWP program.

At the same time, the BCFGA will work on and support the other actions, under the new umbrella of the WALI Okanagan Labour Committee.

In summary, the BCFGA and other agricultural organizations continue to place a priority on labour - improving training and safety, better anticipating labour demand, encouraging labour efficiency and automation, looking to slow the decline in the supply of domestic (Canadian) workers, and seeking to increase the supply of foreign workers in all streams.

Together, the many organizations involved are effective and work to ensure security of the food supply through a robust set of actions to improve the agriculture labour supply. ■

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Ted Hallman Account Manager BC Interior 250-470-7557 ted.hallman@td.com

Alyssa Barr Account Manager BC Interior 250-575-5047 alyssa.barr@td.com

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 CANADIAN WINEMAKER SERIES | ANN SPERLING

Ann Sperling Founder of Sperling Vineyards This month the featured winemaker in Orchard & Vine is the biggest globetrotter we know in the Canadian wine industry.

Ann Sperling is the founder of Sperling Vineyards, a highly regarded winery in southeast Kelowna that has been farmed since the 1860s, and growing wine grapes since the 1920s!

But Sperling is also involved in other wineries far from British Columbia, including work at wineries in Ontario and Nova Scotia, and owning a second winery in the spectacular Argentinian wine region of Mendoza, located in the shadow of the Andes.

O & V: How did you get started in the wine industry?

Ann Sperling: Growing up in an Okanagan Valley vineyard really helped pique my interest in grape vines and eventually winemaking.

Back in the 1980s when we were just finding our stride growing vinifera grapes most of the winemakers I met were European.

Knowing the terroir as I did, it inspired me to put my local Canadian stamp on the wines we grew.

O & V: Where did you go to school or apprentice?

Ann Sperling: 100% local, at the UBC Faculty of Agriculture, now called Land & Food.

O & V: Have you worked in any other countries?

Ann Sperling: There was always so much to be learned by travelling to other wine regions, seeing their vineyards and cellars, and talking and tasting with the winemakers so I made a point of visiting at least two wine regions per year while I was juggling having babies and making wine.

Later, with my husband Peter Gamble, we researched over 200 properties then purchased a tiny 1920 planting of Malbec in Mendoza that we call Versado.

We’re there every harvest to make the current vintage and blend-up and bottle the previous two years. It’s wonderful to be in a completely different wine region each year but also catch up on the latest technical and style-trends breaking in the Southern hemisphere.

46 Pre Spring 2022

I currently make wine and consult in three Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Ontario and Nova Scotia, along with Mendoza, Argentina.

O & V: What is your favourite varietal to work with?

Ann Sperling: Tough one! Each region has its strengths, so specific varietals work better in some places more than others. At Sperling Vineyards, I love making the Riesling year after year. Its stunning and reliable; old vines have such depth and character.

The best part is going back and tasting the old verticals and finding the 2009s as fresh and intense as 2018s but with added complexity.

O & V: What is the best thing about your job?

Ann Sperling: So many things make it fun and challenging. A different focus with each season. Working outdoors amongst the vines. Being part of the elevage (“raising up”) of living/evolving wines. Passionate

people to work with and share our wines with. Trying to out-smart Mother Nature … and by the way, it’s impossible...

O & V: Is there a particular wine or vintage that you have made that you are most proud of?

Ann Sperling: Being recognized for outstanding individual wines over the years (1992 Merlot CedarCreek - Platinum Award; 2010 Pinot Blanc Icewine - Mondial des Pinots Grand D’Or & Prix Meilleur/ Grand-Gold and Best of Show) is rewarding but recognition for a body of work as the 2021 Riedel Winemaker of the Year is a true honour. ■ (Editor’s Note: The Riedel Award from the Cambridge Food & Wine Society recognizes achievements in the global wine industry and the creation of fine wines around the world.

In the past it has recognized such luminaries as Robert Mondavi, Miguel Torres, Lamberto Marchesi de Frescobaldi, Eduardo Chadwick and Sandro Bottega, among others.

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ABBOTSFORD Avenue Machinery Corp.

COURTENAY North Island Tractor CRESTON Kemlee Equipment Ltd. DUNCAN Island Tractor & Supply KELOWNA Avenue Machinery Corp.

OLIVER Gerard’s Equipment Ltd. VERNON Avenue Machinery Corp. kubota.ca | 48 Pre Spring 2022

1521 Sumas Way 3663 S. Island Hwy N.W. Boulevard avenuemachinery.ca 1521 Sumas Way, Box 369 4650 Trans Canada Hwy Abbotsford, BC V2T 6Z6 1090 Stevens Road (604) 864-9568 Hwy 97 South AVE010 7155 Meadowlark Road

604-864-2665 250-334-0801 250-428-2254 250-746-1755 250-769-8700 250-498-2524 250-545-3355