JUNE 2018 • COUNTRY LIFE IN BC Region focuses on boosting local food usage


Processing facility will handle surplus produce


by PETER MITHAM


VICTORIA – Vancouver Island is renowned across Canada as well as internationally for its smaller communities and relaxed pace of life. The island’s southeast flank has a Mediterranean climate thanks to the rain shadow afforded by the mountains sheltering it from the Pacific Ocean, and locals have cultivated a strong sense of place. This extends to the farms of the Saanich Peninsula north of Victoria, where 97% of local produce is sold direct to consumers.


But when all that bounty


from local farms hits local markets, it doesn’t all find a home.


Retailers report that the biggest issue they face is being flooded as product hits the market in waves. It can seem like everyone is growing


See FOOD on next page o Ty James of West Coast Micro Greens is floating an idea for a food hub on Southern Vancouver Island. SUBMITTED PHOTO


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WorkSafeBC insurance helps protect you, your workers, and your business.


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