“Ag Day”, the BC Agriculture Council’s premier advocacy event was held in Victoria on November 7, 2017 connecting eighty farm and ranch leaders from across the province.

The event was organized by the BC Agriculture Council (BCAC) which proudly represents B.C. farmers and ranchers in partnership with industry and government. The purpose is to facilitate the delivery of programs and services in order to grow B.C. into the most dynamic and robust agricultural province in Canada.

Ag Day is a series of scheduled meetings expanded over two days to accommodate pre and post meeting discussions between B.C. farmers and ranchers, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, senior government officials and other key stakeholders such as B.C.’s Agriculture Land Commission (ALC) to discuss the sustainable growth of agriculture in British Columbia. The meetings took place on November 7th and were followed by a network reception.

The network reception that followed the scheduled meetings provided discussions that were intelligent and thought provoking. All those in attendance are working collaboratively with members, partner industry associations and private sector businesses to ensure the sustainable growth and competitiveness of B.C. agriculture.

“For too long, farmers have been left to struggle with rising land costs, labour challenges and an underdeveloped domestic market. We’re planting the seeds of a stronger agriculture sector by revitalizing the Agricultural Land Reserve, restoring the Buy BC marketing program and working with farmers to create jobs and unlock economic activity in communities throughout the province.” - Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture (photographed)

“BC Agriculture Council and the government have an important role to play in supporting our agri-food system. By proactively working together, we can achieve mutually beneficial policies, regulations and programs that support the sustainability and growth of B.C.’s land and water based industries.” - Stan Vander Waal, BC Agriculture Council Chair

AgSafe was one of many organizations asked to take part in the Ag Day reception. The AgSafe representatives were very pleased that many attendees validated the importance and the positive impact AgSafe has made. AgSafe has worked with other industry leaders to help British Columbia’s farmers and ranchers to continue to support the safe growth and sustainability of the agricultural industry. AgSafe would like to thank all our AgSafety leaders for doing their part in supporting agricultural pride, celebrating our industry and ensuring a strong, sustainable economy that benefits everyone, in every region of the province.
 
 
Ministry of Agriculture, Service Plan, 2016/2017-2018/2019

BC government news, Agriculture, Premier celebrates good jobs growing good food on B.C. Agriculture Day, November 10 (2017)

BCAC, News release, B.C. Farmers and Ranchers Connect With Government in Victoria.