B.C. berry, wine grape and tree fruit producers will receive more support to replant their farms, vineyards and orchards with climate-resilient fruit that will increase regional food supply, grow the economy and ensure people in British Columbia continue to enjoy fresh, local fruit and wine.

“British Columbia is so fortunate to have the people we rely on for the berries, wine grapes and tree fruit that our province is so well known for,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “This support is helping producers replant their orchards and farms, providing jobs, revitalizing their businesses and strengthening the economy.”

Funding through the Enhanced Replant Program is available to help growers increase production, be more climate resilient and access new markets. The intake is expected to support the replanting of approximately 809.4 hectares (2,000 acres) with four streams opening to match their growing cycle this fall: berry replant, tree fruit replant, wine grape replant and berry removal.

Overlooking Okanagan Lake, The View Winery, a family-owned and fifth-generation estate, received replant funding to switch to a hardier grape that produces a crisp white wine.

“The funding we received through the Enhanced Replant Program enabled us to replace a less cold-hardy grape variety with Chardonnay vines, which are better suited to withstand the extreme cold-weather events that have become more common in our region,” said Jennifer Molgat, president, The View Winery. “We are thrilled to add Chardonnay to our portfolio and are thankful to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food for its support.” 

For approximately 40 years, Kahlon Farms have been growing raspberries, blueberries and strawberries in the Fraser Valley. The family-owned business has replanted new varieties, helping reposition themselves to meet market needs.

“Plant removal and replanting cost can be a significant barrier to converting berry plantings to climate-adaptable, disease-resistant and higher-yielding varieties,” said Sukh Kahlon, owner, Kahlon Farms. “The Enhanced Replant Program has played a crucial role in maintaining berry industry competitiveness.”

The Enhanced Replant Program helped approximately 200 projects in 2024, resulting in approximately 809.4 hectares (2,000 acres) of unproductive or damaged trees and vines being removed and replanted with new varieties.

Quotes:

Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture –

“Our tree fruit, wine and berry growers do more than produce delicious food. They sustain communities and help drive our local and provincial economies. This support helps them to bounce back from climate impacts and ensures British Columbians can keep enjoying the fresh, local fruit and wine that make our province unique.”

Peter Simonsen, president, BC Fruit Growers’ Association –

“Perennial crop renewal requires faith and commitment. In this ever-changing and challenging climate and retail environment, it is essential that British Columbia tree fruit growers continue to be on the varietal and productive leading edge. The investment stimulus created by the enhanced replant shows a commitment to our industry and to the promise of the agricultural land reserve.” 

Sudeshna Nambiar, executive director, BC Blueberry Council –

“The replant program has greatly supported B.C. blueberry growers by providing funding and guidance to replace old or diseased plants with high-yield, disease-tolerant varieties. This has improved crop quality, increased productivity and ensured long-term sustainability of farms. The program also encourages innovation and best management practices, helping farmers remain competitive and profitable in an evolving agricultural market.”

Jack DeWit, chair, Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C. (IAF) –

“This program reflects our shared commitment to ensuring the future strength of B.C.’s perennial fruit industry. By helping growers replant with the right varieties for changing conditions, we’re building resilience and setting the stage for a thriving sector for years to come.”

Quick Facts:

• The Enhanced Replant program is a five-year initiative that supports B.C.’s fruit and wine sectors as producers adapt to shifting markets and growing conditions with a goal of replanting approximately 3,600 hectares (8,900 acres) of perennial fruit plants.
• The support is helping growers replace low-producing vines, plants and trees with varieties that produce premium fruit that consumers demand.
• The program is delivered by IAF.

Learn More:

To find out more about the Enhanced Replant Program and how to apply, visit: https://iafbc.ca/enhanced-replant-program/