B.C. Agriculture and Lands Minister Steve Thomson and Kelowna-Lake Country MP Ron Cannan presented a cheque today to the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association for $591,426 as part of the Orchards and Vineyards Transition program.

“In B.C., our tree fruit growers have established themselves as leaders in this international industry and as a result have earned an outstanding reputation for their products worldwide,” said Thomson.  

“The tree fruit and grape industry is subject to an ever-changing market and we are working with them to ensure they remain competitive both in B.C. and in the global marketplace.”

In 2007, the federal and provincial governments signed a contribution agreement for the Orchards and Vineyards Transition Program to help the tree fruit and grape industries adapt to industry pressures and changing markets.

The federal government contributed $4.98 million towards strategic plans and removal costs while the province provided $3 million through a grant to the Investment Agriculture Foundation for an orchard replant program.

The term of the agreement is for four years starting in fiscal 2007-08 to 2010-11.

“The federal government remains committed to the long-term success of British Columbia’s orchards and vineyards,” said Cannan.

“I’m proud to be part of a government that is delivering real results for farmers to ensure profitability of and growth of their operations.”

The funding is part of the Removal Program funded by the federal government and delivered by the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, which covers removal and disposal costs of tree fruits and/or grapes to prepare the land and make it available for agriculture or other cultivation.

Under the agreement, funding in the amount of $4.140 million is provided for this program.  

Another $840,000 is allocated to supporting strategic regional plans.