IN THIS ISSUE Spring 2017


Published quarterly by OMedia Communications


Publisher and Editor


Bryden Winsby bryden@omedia.ca


Associate Editor Judie Steeves judie@omedia.ca


Contributing Writer Gary Strachan


gestrachan@alum.mit.edu


Advertising Sales Erin Fichtner


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Graphic Design Buddy Cole


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20 On The Cover


Beehives are irresistible for hungry bears and the best way to deter these unwanted visitors is electrifying. See page 4.


— Ken Owens photo British Columbia Berry Grower • Spring 2017 3 BE ALERT FOR THIS PEST


Brown Marmorated Stink Bug has arrived in the Lower Mainland and hasn’t been detected on berry farms, but it’s probably only a matter of time.


11 16


features 8


TIME TO GET HOPPING?


For growers looking to diversify, there’s a big demand from craft brewers for good quality, locally-grown hops.


DOWN WITH OVERHEADS


Irrigation specialist Bruce Naka says all berry growers can save money, conserve water and apply fertilizer most efficiently by converting to drip irrigation.


UP TO SPEED ON FOOD SAFETY?


CanadaGAP certification satisfies about 90 per cent of suppliers’ requirements.


S:10” T:11”


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