In a significant step towards enhancing food security in British Columbia, farmers are embracing cutting-edge technology through the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program. This initiative, supported by federal and provincial government funding, is empowering farmers to grow their businesses and increase production by adopting automation, robotics, and innovative growing, packing, and storage solutions. The program, delivered by Innovate BC, a crown agency of the Province, is proving to be a game-changer in the agricultural sector.
One notable example of the program's impact can be seen at Van Eekelen Enterprises Ltd. in the Fraser Valley. The farm has acquired a robotic weeder for its field vegetables, known as the "Robot One." This machine learning platform can be taught to differentiate between weeds and crops, with the operator's input guiding the machine's memory. Once the weeds are identified, the robot selectively eliminates them using various tools, thereby improving profitability and reducing labour costs and herbicide use for the Van Eekelens.
In Kelowna, Sandhar Farms has taken a leap forward by purchasing a fruit-picking platform for its orchard. This technology, rarely seen in British Columbia's agricultural sector, is revolutionizing efficiency and safety standards. By elevating workers to the height of the fruit, the platform eliminates the need for ladders, significantly enhancing safety and working conditions. Moreover, it minimizes damage to the fruit as apples are gently placed in the bin, making it an invaluable asset throughout the year.
Camirlaney Farms in Delta has also benefited from the program, receiving funding to upgrade its potato storage with computer panels and digital sensors. These enhancements allow for precise control of storage temperature, reducing crop damage and loss due to moisture and decay.
The B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program is made possible through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a 5-year, C$3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments. This partnership aims to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resilience of Canada's agriculture, agrifood, and agriculture‐based products sector. The program is part of a suite of initiatives offered by Innovate BC through the Integrated Marketplace initiative, developed by the Province of British Columbia as part of the StrongerBC Economic Plan and supported by PacifiCan.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, "Our farmers work hard every day to grow top-quality products. With investments through the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program, more of British Columbia's farmers have been able to make improvements on their farms that will allow them to become more efficient and keep feeding their communities."
Pam Alexis, B.C.'s Minister of Agriculture and Food, highlighted the benefits of integrating agritech on farms, saying, "Integrating new agritech on farms means farmers can improve how they plant, grow, harvest, pack and store the food they produce, which allows them to grow their businesses and provide for the communities they live in. By helping farmers purchase and install equipment that boosts their efficiency and bottom line, we are strengthening food security and production in B.C."
Brenda Bailey, B.C.'s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, underscored the significance of developing a strong agritech industry, stating, "Developing a strong agritech industry is critical to building a sustainable, local food supply, as well as contributing to new jobs and economic growth for communities in B.C. The On-Farm Technology Adoption program is helping farmers add technology, like robotic weeders and robotic pickers, to their operations so farmers can continue to farm and provide good food and good jobs for people in B.C.
