I N T H I S I S S U E Fall 2013


Published quarterly by OMedia Communications


Publisher and Editor


Bryden Winsby bryden@omedia.ca


Associate Editor Judie Steeves judie@omedia.ca


Contributing Editor


Tamara Leigh tamara@omedia.ca


Advertising Sales Erin Fichtner


advertising@omedia.ca


Graphic Design Buddy Cole


buddy@locoldesign.com


Canada Post Publications Agreement Number 40841579


Mailing Address Suite 309,


151-32500 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford, BC, Canada V2T 4W1


Telephone (778) 755-4355 Fax (778) 755-3820 E-mail


info@omedia.ca Website


www.bcberrygrower.ca


Contents copyright 2013. Reproduction in whole or in part, by any means, without prior written permission, is strictly prohibited.


PRINTED IN CANADA


12 15 16


On The Cover Jacek Strek, whose Falcon Pest Control Ltd. is one of the


largest companies of its kind in North Amerca, says falconry for himis not just a career, it’s a “calling”.


Tamara Leigh photo British Columbia Berry Grower • Fall 2013 3 NEW AG MINISTER


With no direct experience in agriculture, Pat Pimm’s first priority is to get a grip on the issues.


features 8


BUILDING ON SUCCESS


Diversification has played a key part in the continued growth of theHopcott family farming operation.


CUSTOMIZED FOR THE COAST


Vancouver Island bee breeder Brenda Jager hopes to produce pollinators that are resistant to cold, damp—andmites.


BLUEBERRY BUD SET TIPS


Post-harvest management of nitrogen can be very important in getting good results for next year.


regulars UP FRONT 4


MINDING YOUR BUSINESS 18 PRUNINGS


19


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20