Canada's tree fruit industry is large and growing, with apples representing 41.5% of the total marketed production of Canadian fruit in 2017, valued at $224.6 million, and cherries representing a farm gate value of $88.2 million in the same year. The Government of Canada, and Canadian tree fruit farmers, know the importance of research and innovation to ensure this industry continues to grow and prosper.
Today, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau and Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country Stephen Fuhr announced an investment of up to $4.2M under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AgriScience Program to the British Columbia Fruit Growers' Association. This funding will support the Association in developing innovative, commercially successful Canadian-bred apple and sweet cherry cultivars that enhance the profitability of Canada's tree fruit sector.
This project, which builds on research funding received under the previous agricultural policy frameworks, consists of ten activities, with research and testing taking place in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia.
Today's announcement is part of Minister Bibeau's first agricultural tour, where she is meeting with farmers, processors and industry leaders.
For further information:
Katie Hawkins
Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Tel; 613-773-1059
katie.hawkins@canada.ca