Agriculture and Food
The Government of British Columbia has issued a proclamation that Sept. 21-28, 2013, shall be known as "Organic Week".
Minister of Agriculture Pat Pimm made the announcement today as the organic industry has organized seven days filled with activities to celebrate Organic Week throughout B.C.
Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson has presented the proclamation to Certified Organic Associations of BC representatives, including Cawston organic farmers Sara Harker and Annemarie Klippenstein. Sara and Troy Harker were named B.C.'s Outstanding Young Farmers in 2013, and Annemarie and Kevin Klippenstein were named Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers in 2011.
The proclamation acknowledges the contribution the organic sector makes to economic and environmental well-being of British Columbia and how the industry is growing to meet the increasing demand for B.C. organic products.
The B.C. government is continuing to work with the B.C. organic farming sector in raising the profile of BC Certified Organic foods and ensuring consumers know about the wide variety of organic food products available in British Columbia.
Quotes:
Minister of Agriculture Pat Pimm -
"The majority of our B.C. organic farms are family owned and operated, and when we support them, we enjoy the benefits of local and nutritious foods, and also help build strong communities throughout the province."
"As we celebrate Organic Week, I want to congratulate the Certified Organic Associations of B.C. on their leadership, and look forward to further growth in B.C.'s organic sector."
Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson -
"I am proud to represent a region that is home to several award-winning young organic farmers, and Organic Week is an excellent opportunity for us all to celebrate their accomplishments. Their hard work is exemplary. It showcases the opportunities, excitement and future growth for agriculture in British Columbia."
COABC co-president Rebecca Kneen -
"Many British Columbians believe that organic food production is the best choice for the health of consumers and producers, for the protection and enhancement of the environment, and for the sustainability of the food production system. COABC is proud to be a part of the B.C. organic community."
Learn More:
Organic Week Proclamation: http://www.qp.gov.bc.ca/statreg/oic/2013%20Proclamations/procs/OrganicWeek2013.htm
Organic Week 2013: http://organicweek.ca/
Certified Organic Associations of BC: http://www.certifiedorganic.bc.ca/
Media Contacts:
Dave Townsend
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Agriculture
250 356-7098
250 889-5945 (cell)
Jen Gamble
Administrator
Certified Organic Associations of British Columbia
250 260-4429
