Berry farmers in B.C. will be getting an investment from the federal and provincial governments to help market competitiveness through innovative genetics and practices.
"Our government is committed to ensuring our berry producers have the tools they need to succeed and be competitive," said Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
"This investment into berry plant breeding will give B.C. growers the best berry varieties suited to the local climate, helping them to meet growing consumer demand and create good middle-class jobs."
Farmers of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries will be affected, with the Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement Association set to receive $200,000 in annual funding for the next five years to improve berry genetics.
The research will support a plant breeding program that produces superior berries more suited to local climate.
"The province's berry industry is made up of hardworking families from all over the province," said Lana Popham, B.C.'s Minister of Agriculture. "This funding is supporting innovation and competitiveness for B.C.'s berries that will help give farmers a leading edge in the blueberry, raspberry and strawberry market."
The program is expected to lead to improved crops, higher fruit quality and increased pest and disease resistance.
In 2017, B.C. growers harvested $136 million worth of blueberries, $20 million worth of raspberries and $6.4 million worth of strawberries.
– Chelsea Powrie, Castanet
