Dear members and organic supporters,
We’re back from the Pacific Agriculture Show and RegenBC conference in Abbotsford, tired but refreshed after connecting with many of you from across the province. Thank you to the volunteers for helping Mary at the booth, to Discovery Organics for donating apples and Forstbauer Farm for the carrots, and Peninsula Kiwi for a taste of fresh Vancouver Island kiwi!
If we couldn’t connect, we hope you can attend our upcoming Beer Night, an opportunity for networking and laughing, and also for fundraising so we can bring you regional events around the province. Jordan is busy adding new podcast episodes to the Organic BC website—timely as you plan your commute to one of our upcoming events.
Don’t forget to scroll down to learn more about Organic BC benefits, our job board, updates from our partners, and government news.
~ Eva-Lena Lang, Executive Director
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Don't Miss These Upcoming Events From Organic BC
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This February and March, we're hosting a series of online and regional events in collaboration with partners around the province. Don't miss the many opportunities to reconnect with other growers, discuss organic and regenerative agriculture, and stay up to date on the latest practices, policies and issues.
More upcoming events, with details and registration links TBA:
- Vancouver Island: Regional Event - Feb 25, 2023 | Comox Valley
- Coast: Regional Event - Mar 15, 2023 | Delta
- Screening: Virtual Farm Tours - March 2023 | Online
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Organic BC Group Health Benefits
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Did you know that as a member of Organic BC, you are eligible for a Group Benefits Plan? The plans include life insurance, dental care, and extended health care (vision, prescriptions, medical aids & equipment, professional services such as massage and physiotherapy, and more).
There are two types of plans available:
- Entrepreneur (operations of 1–2 people)
- Larger businesses (operations of 3 or more people)
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Hiring? Post on the Organic BC Job Board
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Hiring season is here! By posting on the Organic BC job board, you'll reach folks who are searching for opportunities on organic farms or other sustainably minded operations.
We welcome a range of job opportunities in British Columbia, including for organic farms and businesses of course, but also for other farms, businesses, educational institutions and organizations that have a focus on regenerative and/or sustainable agriculture and products.
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We've added new episodes to the Organic BC podcast, with more on the way. Tune in for the latest conversations with farmers, eaters, academics, scientists and authors about the philosophy, practice, and politics of organic food.
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Do You Ship Samples to Buyers Outside of Canada?
COTA has a funding stream than can help you with your shipping costs!
To be eligible for a grant of 50% of your shipping costs, applicants must complete a form, complete a survey outlining sales potential and provide a copy of the paid invoice for samples shipped to a buyer outside of Canada. Learn more.
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Survey: Organic Research
Organic producers! How has organic research helped you? The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada is conducting an Organic Science Impact Analysis project, and is asking organic producers to fill out a short survey:
The results will aid in the design and implementation of organic science research projects and extension resources. Questions? Email E.Ellis@dal.ca.
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Report: Barriers and Solutions in Canada's Organic Food Supply Chain
These reports, created by Canadian Organic Growers, identify the barriers hindering the domestic supply of six different organic commodities: beef, carrots, blueberries, salad greens, oats and field peas.
Download the free reports here.
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Canadian Eco-Scholar Award
Yorkshire Valley Farms and the Guelph Organic Conference are excited to partner on the 2023 Eco-Scholar Award program to help encourage and guide the next generation of organic and regenerative leaders. The award is open to full-time students who are passionate about agriculture and how it can be a force for good in our society. Learn more.
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Planning Underway for New BC Plant and Animal Health Lab
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The BC government is planning to build a new Plant and Animal Health Centre to provide diagnostic services that support agricultural producers, food safety and the growth of a resilient food system in the province.
Though it has returned to near full operations and services, the current Plant and Animal Health Centre in Sumas Prairie was severely damaged by the 2021 flooding and is at risk of future flooding. A business plan is being prepared for a new facility that will provide enhanced animal and plant health services to BC producers in a more secure setting.
Read the full news release here.
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Organic BC Beer Night
Feb. 2, 2023 | 7 - 9 PM | Online
The event last year was a real hit, and this year’s agenda will be equally non-serious! Host Jordan Marr will facilitate some light conversations interspersed with a silent auction that will aim to raise money for Organic BC and embarrass Jordan while doing it. More details.
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BC Agriculture Networking Event – Exploring Agriculture in the Cariboo
Feb. 18, 2023 | 9:30 AM - 2 PM | Kersley, BC
Is farming in your DNA? Come and investigate opportunities and challenges in a timely discussion with a panel of producers representing a broad range of Cariboo agriculture, from beef to berries to beets. The round table discussion will be followed by a catered lunch and updates on other agricultural initiatives in the region. More details.
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