The British Columbia Fruit Growers’ Association (BCFGA), founded in 1889 and headquartered in Kelowna, Canada, is one of the oldest and most influential agricultural associations in Canada. Representing over 400 tree fruit growers in the province of British Columbia, the BCFGA plays a pivotal role in advancing the interests of fruit producers through advocacy, research, innovation, and sustainable farming practices.
Core Mandate and Services
BCFGA's primary mission is to support and enhance the livelihoods of fruit growers by providing services and representation in the following key areas:
- Policy Advocacy: Engaging with federal and provincial governments on issues like trade, crop insurance, water rights, and labour policy.
- Research and Development: Supporting horticultural research to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and post-harvest quality.
- Pest Management: Coordination of area-wide integrated pest management (IPM) programs.
- Education and Training: Organizing workshops and field days on modern orchard techniques, environmental sustainability, and business management.
- Labour Coordination: Facilitating participation in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) to ensure reliable labour supply for member orchards.
Industry Representation
BCFGA members primarily grow:
- Apples (leading variety: Ambrosia)
- Cherries
- Pears
- Peaches
- Plums
- Apricots
The association advocates on behalf of growers to ensure market access, food safety compliance, and adoption of climate-resilient practices. It also partners with marketing organizations such as BC Tree Fruits Cooperative to enhance the visibility and value of Okanagan-grown fruit in both domestic and international markets.
Membership and Scale
- Number of Members: ~400 active fruit growers
- Land Coverage: Members operate over 17,000 acres of orchards across the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Creston valleys
- Economic Impact: Tree fruit production in BC contributes over CAD $300 million annually to the provincial economy
- Export Markets: United States, China, India, Vietnam, and Mexico
Research and Innovation
BCFGA actively supports and funds industry-led research through its partnership with the BC Agricultural Research and Development Corporation (ARDCorp) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). Current focus areas include:
- Fire blight resistance in apple cultivars
- Climate-adaptive orchard systems
- Pesticide alternatives and organic options
- Apple replant program optimization
In addition, BCFGA contributes to research infrastructure such as the Summerland Research and Development Centre, one of Canada’s leading tree fruit R&D facilities.
Strategic Initiatives
The association is leading or participating in several high-impact initiatives:
- Replant Program Advocacy: Lobbying for ongoing provincial funding to support orchard renewal and transition to high-density planting systems.
- Labour Stability Strategy: Working with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to ensure efficient processing of SAWP applications.
- AgriStability Program Participation: Ensuring members have access to income stabilization and risk management tools.
Certifications and Compliance
While BCFGA itself does not certify farms, it supports members in obtaining and maintaining:
- CanadaGAP (Good Agricultural Practices certification)
- Organic Certification through regional certifying bodies
- Environmental Farm Plan approvals
- Compliance with Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) export standards
Partnerships and Recognition
BCFGA collaborates with:
- BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Canadian Horticultural Council
- BC Tree Fruits Cooperative
- Okanagan College for workforce training
BCFGA was recognized by the Government of British Columbia for its pivotal role in guiding the agricultural sector through trade disruptions and climate change challenges during the 2021-2022 season.
Leadership
As of 2025, Adrian Arts serves as the Executive Director, overseeing operations, government relations, and strategic planning for the association.
Contact Summary
- City: Kelowna, British Columbia
- Founded: 1889
- Phone: +1‑250‑487‑9396
- Email: aarts@bcfga.com / info@bcfga.com
The British Columbia Fruit Growers’ Association continues to be a cornerstone institution for fruit agriculture in Canada, empowering growers to adapt, compete, and thrive in a globalized produce economy through advocacy, education, and science-driven solutions.