British Columbia advances food‑processing rules and genome tools to boost agriculture

The provincial government is seeking to amend regulations for the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) to permit food‑processing facilities on Class 5‑7 soil, and on Class 4 where serviced, provided at least 5 % of the primary product used is grown or raised in BC. The change is intended to protect prime farmland while opening 500‑1,000 ha for new processing plants, creating jobs and attracting investment amid trade uncertainty. A six‑week engagement with industry, local governments and First Nations is under way.

Genome BC is funding three research projects to improve detection and management of crop threats. Partners are developing qPCR diagnostics for eight nematode species and a yeast‑based RNA‑interference biopesticide targeting wireworms. “RNAi is very, very target specific,” said Dr. John Husnik. The tools aim to help farmers address climate‑related challenges and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, supporting a resilient provincial food supply.