Victoria- The British Columbia government has announced significant enhancements to its AgriStability program for the 2024 program year, raising the compensation rate to 90% and doubling the compensation cap for all farmers. This move is expected to provide an estimated $15 million in immediate relief to farmers facing challenges, particularly due to the increasing risks associated with extreme weather. Additionally, late enrolment will be available for producers who have not yet joined the AgriStability program.
In a parallel effort to support the province’s agriculture sector, the government is introducing the Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program, which will provide $5 million in funding to tree-fruit farmers. This program aims to assist farmers in purchasing equipment and pursuing projects that were previously ineligible under existing programs. The initiative builds on the successful extreme weather preparedness program and acknowledges the significant impact of climate change on the tree-fruit sector in recent years.
“This has been a challenging time for farmers, including B.C. fruit growers. Our government has been listening to them. What we are hearing is everyone is facing different challenges, but the common denominator is that farmers need help now with their bottom line,” said Pam Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “Today’s announcement reflects both short-term support with more money available to farmers through AgriStability payments, and longer-term support with a new climate resiliency program so growers can plan and ensure there is a sustainable supply of B.C. cherries, peaches, apples, and other tree fruits in future years.”
Sukhpaul Bal, president of the BC Cherry Association, also welcomed the announcement, stating, “The BC Cherry Association is pleased with today’s announcement by the B.C. government. Extreme weather events over the past five years have been devastating for agriculture in B.C.”