British Columbia's tree fruit growers have recently encountered significant financial obstacles due to the BC Tree Fruits Cooperative's closure and creditor protection application.
In response, the provincial government, in collaboration with Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF), is providing timely financial support.
“These are very challenging times for B.C.’s tree-fruit growers and we are continuing to support them in getting their fruit to market as well as with cash in their pockets now,” said Pam Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food.
“Our priority from the beginning has been working with growers to ensure they are receiving as many of the services the co-op provided as possible, including food-safety certification, access to storage and bins, and connecting with packing houses. This is why we set up an emergency table with the sector to work together on solutions. We are monitoring the court process closely and will continue to support growers in finding alternative arrangements for their harvest.”
The IAF is redirecting approximately $4 million in provincial funds as bridge financing.
This strategic move ensures that the co-op members receive payments owed for previous harvests swiftly, without the lengthy delays typically associated with court proceedings. This support provides immediate relief to growers during these challenging times.
The government has allocated an additional $100,000 to the BC Fruit Growers Association.
This funding is dedicated to aiding food-safety certification—a critical requirement previously managed by the cooperative.
As the legal process unfolds, the IAF will assume the co-op members’ creditor position, disbursing payments to the growers.
Eventually, the IAF plans to recoup these funds at the conclusion of the court process, ensuring a sustainable financial strategy.
The ministry is also extending specialized assistance to any producers currently without arrangements with a private packer. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector through direct and impactful measures.
“Farming is part of our identity in this part of the world, and government is taking action to support farmers and their businesses," says Roly Russell, MLA Boundary-Similkameen. "These actions are especially important now given an incredibly difficult few years, with climate change, the closure of the co-op and other struggles making life difficult and business viability challenging."
"We've been working hard to ensure avenues to market are identified and accessible, that the federal government is stepping up, and that programs are effective so those who need assistance are supported now and in the future.”