Dear members and organic supporters,
Reflecting on this past year leaves us somewhat breathless. Organic BC accomplished much and has many reasons to celebrate, but this is tempered by all the hardships and challenges that so many experienced this year.
Our deepest appreciation and gratitude to all of you who have chosen to embrace organic management practices, and the transparency and accountability that comes with certification. You are at the front of the wedge of an agricultural movement whose principles of health, ecology, fairness and care are transforming the agricultural landscape, increasing food security, building resilient communities, and helping mitigate climate change. The world needs you now more than ever – thank you!
Being a member of Organic BC means that you belong to a community of leaders and change-makers representing all agricultural commodities. We are so thankful to all of you who found the space to contribute this year by serving on the Organic BC board of directors, the Accreditation Board, the branding and conference committees, the regenerative agriculture taskforce, and the review steering committee. Thank you for your incredible insights and contributions.
We look forward to connecting with more of you in 2022, and hopefully with many of you in person at the conference in February.
Note: The Organic BC office will be closing for the holidays on December 20 and will reopen on January 4.
Happy holidays!
Eva-Lena Lang, Executive Director
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Looking for a Last-Minute Gift?
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Go organic this holiday season and support local, certified organic growers in British Columbia!
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone special, preparing a holiday feast, or treating yourself, our Organic BC gift guide has you covered. Take a look and share with a friend!
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2022 BC Organic Conference Update
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Here are the latest updates on the 2022 BC Organic Conference, happening on Feb. 25 - 27 at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops. Don't forget, tickets are on sale now!
Sunday programming has been confirmed
Dr. Briana Hagen will present a Mental Wellness Check-in Amongst the Chaos & Convergence. She will provide details related to emergency response models and a farmer mental wellness program that she designed, called In the Know. She will also be part of a facilitated conversation on the same topic.
Multi-conference discounts
For those who are attending both the full BC Organic Conference and the full BCCA Agriculture and Food Co-op Conference on Feb. 24 - 25 at TRU, please contact Michelle at events@organicbc.org to receive a discount code for $50 off each registration — this means you’re not paying double for the Friday workshop and the Friday Gala is free!
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Now Accepting Nominations for the Organic BC Awards
Each year at the BC Organic Conference, we present awards that recognize the outstanding achievements of our members:
- Brad Reid Award: Honours an innovative leader who has strengthened the organic community by moving the sector forward
- Bedrock Award: Honours a person (or persons) for their contributions to the foundations of organics
To learn more about the awards and view past recipients, visit organicbc.org/awards.
PIctured here: Past Bedrock Award winners Anne Macey and Rochelle Eisen with presenters Paddy Doherty and Carmen Wakeling
The deadline for nominations is January 7, 2022!
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Update: CFIA’s Proposal to Deregulate GMOs
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On Dec. 8, new regulatory changes were expected to be published by Health Canada that will allow private corporations to release many new genetically engineered (genetically modified or GM) foods onto the market without any government oversight.
But, Heath Canada did NOT announce the deregulation as planned.
Why? There has been overwhelming support calling for transparency and government oversight of all genetically engineered foods. According to the Canadian Biotechnology Action Network (CBAN), your actions are working: The Minister of Health’s office has been flooded with calls and emails from concerned Canadians. That said, Health Canada could announce its final changes at any time.
More action is needed! Visit our blog to learn how to get involved and help support food safety, our environment, the livelihoods of many Canadian farmers and the integrity of organic products.
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Biodiversity and Pest Control
A new study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology shows the importance of maintaining biodiversity to achieve natural pest control and reduce the use of insecticides. Specifically, the study found that natural habitat in the landscape and on-farm vegetative diversity improve natural enemy communities, which leads to improved pest control.
Read more from the Organic Center.
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BCAC Flood Resources
The BC Agriculture Council (BCAC) has a great list of resources for farmers and ranchers impacted by the recent and ongoing weather events.
The page continues to be updated frequently, so if you or your organization has information to share, please contact communications@bcac.ca.
Check out the list on the BCAC homepage: bcac.ca
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Share Ideas: Next Agricultural Policy Framework
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The Next Policy Framework (NPF) is a five-year (2023–2028) investment by federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments to strengthen and grow Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector. It will replace the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), which ends March 31, 2023.
FPT governments will consult with Canadians, including stakeholders such as producers, processors, Indigenous communities, women in agriculture, youth, environmental organizations, and small and emerging sectors to develop the Framework. Initial consultations on the NPF will seek stakeholder feedback on both current and potential challenges and opportunities facing the sector and on prospective priorities and vision for the NPF.
Click here to share your experiences and ideas for the Next Policy Framework.
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Organic Beef Supply Chain
Dec. 17, 2021 | 9 am - 10 am | Online
Join Canadian Organic Growers for a one-hour webinar where they’ll be presenting and discussing the challenges experienced by producers and other relevant stakeholders in the beef supply chain and present a set of strategies for promoting the stability and growth of the organic sector. Learn more.
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Pacific Agriculture Show
Jan. 27 - 29 | Tradex Exhibition Centre (Abbotsford Airport)
The Pacific Agriculture Show will showcase the latest and most innovative equipment and technology for the agriculture industry. Join thousands of farmers and agri-food producers in comparing and investigating what over 300 exhibitors have to make your operation more efficient. More details.
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