Adrian Arts, a registered professional agrologist, has been appointed as the new executive director of the BC Fruit Growers' Association (BCFGA). Arts brings over ten years of experience in the tree fruit sector, having most recently served as regional manager for the Southern Interior with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
BCFGA highlighted the Arts' role in securing over $100 million in new investments for the B.C. agriculture sector. "2024 was a year of multiple crises, from the devastating freeze to the closure of BC Tree Fruit Cooperative," said Peter Simonson, president of the BCFGA. "I am very proud of the work BCFGA accomplished last year, but the fact remains that we are still in a dire situation."
Simonson added, "We are at risk of losing both the tree fruit industry and family farming in the Okanagan, and there is so much work to be done. Adrian is joining the BCFGA at a critical time, and we are confident that he is up to the challenges ahead."
Arts will assume his role on May 22, succeeding Melissa Tesche, who has transitioned to a position with the Okanagan Basin Water Board. Before this, Glen Lucas served as general manager for 26 years until his retirement in 2024.
Besides his government roles, Arts has been involved with the Climate Action Initiative, the New Tree Fruit Varieties Development Council, the BC Institute of Agrologists, and the Water Stewardship Council of the Okanagan Basin Water Board.
Arts stated, "I know how hard growers are working, and the challenges we face. I understand what's at stake. I am committed to supporting our members and leading with purpose, working together with industry and government to deliver lasting support for B.C.'s tree fruit growers. We're stronger together, and I'm here to help turn that strength into results."
Source: Castanet