A survey conducted by the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association finds that more than 67 per cent of farmers indicate they have reduced food production as a result of the pandemic.
The survey outlines some of the impacts of the pandemic and shows how B.C. producers are forced to cut their crops in order to keep themselves in business. The fruit industry was struggling previous to Covid sweeping the world with one of the examples being that apple prices have dropped so significantly that the cost to produce the crop is higher than the return.
Some of the key findings within the survey are, four in five producers say they are concerned about being able to cover additional costs associated with new public health guidelines and seven in eight producers are concerned they may not have enough hired labour to bring in their crops.
The B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association appreciates the previous assistance by the various government bodies but acknowledges there are still challenges to overcome.
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