WHEREAS the British Columbia interior tree fruit industry is under extreme hardship; AND WHEREAS the British Columbia interior tree fruit industry represents 800 growers operating orchards that generate 130 million in wholesale revenue, contribute 900 million in economic activity and directly employs 1,500 person years at the grower, packer and processor level: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia endorse and implement a Buy Local program to promote the sale of local, sustainably produced foods in support of the British Columbia tree fruit industry.
Ministry of Agriculture The Ministry of Agriculture Ministry recognizes the benefits of increased promotion and marketing of local production, both to producers and the public. The 2008 British Columbia Agriculture Plan Ag Plan was clear in its endorsement of an enhanced, province-wide buy local marketing program. The Ministry is providing staff assistance, and is re-profiling some funding to support BC Agriculture Council BCAC. The BCAC and the Ministry are planning to extend the current Buy BC licensing agreement for a further five years. The Buy BC licensing program forms the foundation of the branding program and clearly demonstrates governments commitment to this initiative. While the Ministry is not able to fund the branding program to the full extent anticipated in the Ag Plan, the Ministry has been able to provide funding for marketing and enhancement for the tree fruit industry. In July 2010, the Ministry announced a 2 million investment, matched by a 3 million contribution from the Federal Government, for the development of new marketing opportunities and infrastructure, and to improve orchard pest management for the tree fruit industry. This funding will allow tree fruit growers to gain the innovative edge needed to promote British Columbian grown fruit. The BCAC has indicated that they are looking forward to working with the tree fruit sector to assist them in promoting and branding their products. The Minsitry will strongly support marketing initiatives such as this and will work with BCAC to broaden and enhance current buy local marketing programs.