The Globe and Mail - B.C. to provide $80-million to help farmers cope with drought
“That is why farmers in B.C. are grateful to learn the provincial government is investing $80 million to help them manage, collect and store water for crops and livestock.”
“Climate change-related events, particularly drought, make it tough for farmers to secure enough water for animals, feed and crops, which makes grocery prices soar.”
Published by The Globe and Mail, this article from British Columbia highlights the concerns of farmers like Werner Stump, who face another dry season following unprecedented drought last year. As Vice-President of the BC Cattleman’s Association, Stump emphasizes the pivotal role of water for agriculture, expressing gratitude for the provincial government's $80 million investment to address water management challenges.
Premier David Eby's announcement of an $80 million investment offers hope for farmers grappling with water scarcity, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change-related events. Eby highlights the impact of drought on agricultural sustainability, stressing the need for proactive measures to support farmers and mitigate the rising costs of groceries.
The Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program, through which the funding will be distributed, plays a crucial role in enhancing irrigation efficiency and improving water availability and storage infrastructure. Launched last year with a $20-million contribution, the program has supported numerous water-storage projects benefiting farmers across the province. The expansion of funding is expected to provide additional support to hundreds more farmers, aiding them in preparing for potential droughts while contributing to the enhancement of stream flows and fish populations.
Amidst concerns of an continued drought, the timing of the announcement preceding a seasonal emergency preparedness update highlights the gravity of the situation and the proactive approach taken by the government to address water scarcity issues in the agricultural sector.
The Canada1Water project, nearing the completion of its initial research and development phase, stands as a crucial national initiative aimed at analyzing the effects of climate change on water resources. By providing decision-makers, policy analysts, and community planners with user-friendly tools, initiatives like Canada1Water play a vital role in navigating the challenges of ensuring a sustainable water supply in the face of climate variability and change, and increasing the effectiveness of initiatives like the Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program.
Click here to read the article at The Globe and Mail
“We have to take action for our farmers. If we don’t, we are going to be very hungry in British Columbia.”