FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2023
(Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) – The BC Craft Farmers Co-op (“BCCFC) or (“the Cooperative”) is calling on the B.C. provincial government to ensure craft cannabis farmers and processors impacted by the ongoing wildfires receive the same recovery benefits and support as wineries and other agriculture sectors.
“Despite the fact that B.C.’s cannabis sector contributes billions of dollars to the B.C. economy, our craft farmers are too often left out of government assistance programs available to other agriculture sectors,” said BCCFC President Tara Kirkpatrick. “The provincial government has rightfully indicated they will provide support to wineries and other agriculture producers that are being impacted by evacuation orders. Craft cannabis farmers in the fire zone should receive the same support.”
BC cannabis farmers needing assistance due to wildfires are encouraged to contact BCCFC at the email address below. The Cooperative is also reminding the sector to follow WorkSafeBC’s guide to protect workers from smoke exposure.
“Some of our members and Indigenous partners have experienced the devastation caused by wildfires, and some of us can only imagine. Our members’ deep roots in this sector and our need to stick together remain unchanged,” concluded Kirkpatrick.
Over a year ago, at BCCFC’s first BC Cannabis Summit, hundreds of sector leaders unanimously voted in favour of a policy resolution calling on the BC and federal governments to officially recognize across their legislation that cannabis is a legitimate and legal farm activity and product. This reality prevents craft farmers from being eligible for many government assistance policies.
BCCFC was founded in 2020 to provide B.C.’s small cannabis producers and processors with a safe, accessible, and sustainable alternative to the illicit market, and ensure BC’s international reputation as an international cannabis leader and innovator is maintained. BCCFC members and supporters include BC craft farmers, processors, nurseries, labs, independent retailers, consumers, and sector vendors. Learn more and apply to join the Cooperative.
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Media and Assistance Contact
BCCFC Assistant Secretary
assistantsecretary@bccraftfarmerscoop.com