A new workforce initiative will support British Columbia’s agriculture and food industry in recruiting and retaining the workers who will help provide a stable food supply for a growing population in B.C. and around the world.

Operated by four generations of family members named Michael Smith, 13 Maples Farm is being recognized with a Century Farm Award for their contribution to B.C. agriculture and their local community.

Commercial food hub operators can now join farmers, fishers, processors and sector organizations in receiving traceability system funding to support food safety, streamlined operations and increased sales opportunities.

Farmers in Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford will have access to $1.5 million to implement practices that create benefits for food production and the environment.

Farmers, fishers, producers and processors in the Lower Mainland will have more opportunities to expand their product lines and market presence with the development of a new commercial food hub in Richmond.

To recognize and celebrate the important role honey bees play in the province’s agricultural industry and local food system, May 29 is being proclaimed Day of the Honey Bee. 

A new program will focus on preventing the effects of climate change on B.C.’s oceans and watersheds, and protecting seafood and marine life.

Farmers and ranchers are being supported with a new round of funding to help strengthen their resilience to wildfires, flooding and extreme heat, and mitigate future climate impacts.