Kootenay
July 6, 2018
Vancouver Island – Coast
Laidback island style farming
The Vancouver Island-Coast region comprises the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, and the central coastal mainland of BC*. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, water in every direction, and the beautiful mountains as its scenic backdrop the region features one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
The combination of rainforests, marshes, meadows, beaches, oceans, rivers, and lakes make the Vancouver Island-Coast a unique canvas for agriculture. The mild, moist climate and short frost season allow crops like vegetables and fruit to flourish.
The region’s 2,786 farms, almost all of which are small, have been going strong since the 1840’s. Local farmers harvest grains, potatoes, fruits, berries, nuts, mushrooms, vegetables, and greenhouse products as well as a dominant production in dairy, cattle, chickens, pigs, sheep, rabbits, and goats. About one-third of these businesses sell direct to consumers through farm stands, farmers markets and Community Supported Agriculture**. The Vancouver Island-Coast also boasts a vibrant aquaculture setting for fish and shellfish***. Vancouver Island is also home to Canada’s only commercial rose growers!
Epitomizing island-style living with a laid back attitude is the perfect pairing for locals and tourists seeking markets and new food adventures. This manifests itself most dramatically in the region’s dynamic and fast growing wineries, cideries, and thriving craft beer industries.
*Source: BC Ministry of Agriculture’s 2011 Year in Review. Pg. 15.
**Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/farming-natural-resources-and-industry/agriculture-and-seafood/statistics/census/census-2016/aginbrief_2016_all_province_region_regional_districts.pdf
***Source: Agriculture in the Classroom, Canada. “A Guide to BC Agriculture Resources”. Pg. 13.
