Delta Playing A Critical Role In Provincial Food Security

COVID-19 has impacted each of us as individuals; from our personal lives to the global economy. As we work to navigate the realities of what it means to live and work in this next phase of “life with COVID-19” until a viable solution is available, families, businesses and industries are constantly looking to pivot and adjust in this ever-changing environment.
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One of those concerns has been that of food security, knowing that the supply chain of the basic staples of everyday life are available for us. In Delta, we are fortunate to have such a rich farming tradition; with over fifty percent of all British Columbia’s green beans and potatoes grown right here! From local blueberries, bell peppers and tomatoes to locally, ethically raised dairy and beef from family farms, Delta is a suburban community setting an example for the province of a whole community ecosystem. Over the past number of months our member businesses have reported a significant increase in consumer interest and participation in personal home vegetable gardening; growing their own fruits and vegetables or intentionally buying more often from farm markets.

To continue to promote the establishment and development of the agriculture technology (agritech) sector, the Delta Chamber of Commerce has been hard at work advocating for support from business organizations across the province. In May, the Delta Chamber put forward a policy resolution to the BC Chamber of Commerce Virtual AGM, which includes recommendations on how the provincial government can ensure food security and a reliable local supply chain and consumer base for food and beverages in B.C.. This resolution was adopted at the B.C. Chamber of Commerce virtual AGM. This resolution was adopted, and as a result is now part of the province-wide network’s advocacy agenda with government.

By promoting agritech, we are encouraging innovation to bridge the gap between our rich farming history and the next generations’ involvement in continuing the growth of the industry. We are encouraged that there is bipartisan agreement to recognize the importance of supporting our farmers through innovation, education, and policy development which will sustain and enhance our agricultural lands and maintain our efforts to mitigate climate change.

As new generations of farmers grow up in our community, the Delta Chamber is excited about education programs that instill the value of locally grown and sustainable food in students.

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