Cranberry growers to get their own research facility


Activities at Delta farm will focus on keeping B.C. producers at the leading edge.


By Judie Steeves I


t has been a long time coming, but with the help of senior governments, B.C.’s cranberry growers will soon be able to develop a research farm in Delta to trial new varieties, look at cultural methods and new pest controls. “This will be a dedicated research facility that is stand-alone, doing production research,” explained Todd May, president of the B.C. Cranberry Research Society, as well as chair of the research committee of the B.C. Cranberry Marketing Commission and a director on that board as well.


The Richmond grower is passionate about the importance of research to take the industry forward, and has been growing cranberries all his life. In fact, he’s a fifth-generation Richmond farmer. May is excited about the project, although he realizes getting it up and running is a long-term project that isn’t going to happen overnight.


He emphasizes this is to be a research field facility with a small office on the property, not “big glass towers.” In the cranberry industry, there is a lot happening North America-wide, he says, and this project will ensure B.C. growers don’t miss out on any of it. “There are lots of issues facing all areas of farming. This facility will be fairly flexible. It will provide the research and tools for the industry, so we can deal with issues as they arise,” he said. Steve Thomson is also pleased the province has been able to help with the project. “Being competitive in today’s market requires a solid, strategic


Richmond grower Todd May, president of the B.C. Cranberry Research Society.


British Columbia Berry Grower • Winter 2010-11


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