Abbotsford, B.C. November 16, 2023: As part of Farm Fest 2023, young farmers from across British Columbia are gathering in Abbotsford today to discuss critical issues facing the next generation of farmers and ranchers. They will take part in a morning education session, farm tours and reception to learn, network and ultimately equip themselves for success in running their current and future farm businesses.
The BC Young Farmers (BCYF) Farm Fest is an annual event that brings together farmers aged 19-40 actively involved in the agriculture industry. This year’s sold-out event will address workforce development within the ongoing labour shortage faced by agriculture as well as preparing young farmers in essential aspects of running a successful farm operation. The main panel for the event features Premier David Eby and Minister of Agriculture and Food, the Honourable Pam Alexis, in conversation with young farmers.
As a committee of BC Agriculture Council (BCAC), BCYF’s mandate is to give voice to the province’s young farmers. This is done through collaboration with BCAC by participating on the board of directors, attending key industry events and hosting events of their own. BCYF plays an important role in organizing peer-to-peer networking and leadership development opportunities for young farmers.
“Developing strong agricultural leaders and farm business owners is one of the important roles our committee aims to deliver to our peers,” says BCYF committee chair, Rebecca Senicar, who runs a 450 dairy cow herd in Cloverdale with her family. “I’m thrilled to be gathering with fellow young farmers for the opportunity to network and grow together as we shape the future of agriculture in our province.”
Senicar sees a space for farmers and government to collaborate and address challenges to the agriculture industry together. “It’s an honour to have both the Premier and Minister of Agriculture and Food join us today – we are grateful that government is taking our future seriously. We look forward to working together on the sustainability of our sector for this next generation of farmers and ranchers.”
“B.C. farmers are essential to ensuring affordable, nutritious food for British Columbians,” said Premier David Eby. “But it’s been a tough few years for B.C. farmers, especially young farmers who are just getting established in the industry, from climate-related disasters to business challenges like finding workers. Our government is working hard to bring more certainty and stability to farming families. We’ve made an historic investment in food security initiatives and expanded our work supporting established and emerging farmers, so they can continue doing what they love now and well into the future.”
“Farm Fest is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the people that represent the future of farming here in B.C. We know there are barriers that new and young farmers face, like access to capital and land, and we will continue to support programs that help farmers grow their business and have sustainable production,” said B.C. Minister of Agriculture and Food, the Honourable Pam Alexis. “We will continue to be here for farmers and work collaboratively with them so we can keep our agricultural sector thriving and ensure a strong, sustainable food supply in British Columbia, now and in the years ahead.”
About BC Agriculture Council: BCAC’s mission is to grow a strong, sustainable and competitive agriculture sector through building industry consensus and advancing public policy. This is achieved by delivering a unified voice for the sector to government through member farm associations that in turn, represent approximately 96% of provincial farm gate sales.
Media Contact:
Cassy James
Communications Manager
BC Agriculture Council
Mobile: 604-997-3804 | cjames@bcac.ca
