BC Hydro fund gives over $70,000 to agriculture projects in the Peace region

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — BC Hydro’s Peace Agricultural Compensation Fund (PACF) has approved over $71,314 for five agricultural production projects.

According to PACF chair Rick Kantz, the projects funded highlight the resilience and innovation of the Peace Region’s agricultural community. 

“Agriculture is the backbone of the Peace region, and investments like these ensure farmers and ranchers have the tools they need to adapt, thrive, and continue contributing to the vitality of our communities,” said Kantz. 

The Bear Mountain Grazing Association (BMGA) is receiving $20,650 for reserve water resiliency.

According to a November 28th press release, the BMGA’s pasture has experienced a prolonged drought, which has resulted in low water levels. 

“This project is extremely important to the tenure users of the BMGA in ensuring an adequate supply of clean, accessible water for cattle,” a BMGA representative said.

The pasture runs 28 miles long and contains 50-plus dugouts, many of which are running extremely low and sometimes even completely dry. 

“This funding will allow us to clean several dugouts throughout the grazing reserve.” said the association.

Bryan and Bobbi-Lee Woodward received $20,000 for ranch livestock upgrades.

“This project aims to transition from a small-scale summer cattle grazing operation to a year-round cow and calf operation through livestock watering and handling improvements.” said the release. 

The project will establish two winter watering locations, upgrade the barn, add two calving pens, and install an insulated pump room.

“These additions will enhance productivity, ensure reliable water sources, and improve livestock safety during calving.”

The project also includes purchasing livestock waterers, installing construction supplies, and upgrading an existing pump room. 

David Braun was approved for $12,875 to rebuild the property’s fencing line, enlarging a small water supply dugout, and installing solar-powered water pump systems.

“Rotational grazing through smaller pastures prevents overgrazing, improves weed control, and enhances manure distribution, allowing for increased livestock production.”

“Solar water systems will keep cattle out of the dugouts, ensuring clean water access and improving livestock health and productivity.”

Dalton and Chantel Odden received $11,250 for their ranch wildlife fencing project, which will utilize portable buffalo panels to create movable wildlife fencing around livestock feed.

“This fencing will minimize feed waste, damage, and contamination caused by wildlife, reducing input costs and improving feed quality.”

The group says it can produce more and healthier cattle with better feed access and quality. 

“Lower feed waste and costs will also allow for reinvestment into other areas of the ranch, such as feed production and cattle expansion, boosting agricultural output in the Peace region.”

Lastly, Shayne and Rachel Turnbull expressed gratitude for receiving $6,539 from the PACF.

“We are very happy to have our project selected for support from the BC Hydro agriculture fund,” said Shayne and Rachel Turnbull.

Their stated goal is to make better use of fibre products from its animals and increase the availability of locally produced fibre around the region.

“Having support to establish a wool processing facility will enable our farm to process our own wool fibre as well as wool for other local producers,” said the organization. 

According to PACF’s website, it is a $20 million fund established by BC Hydro and is dedicated to supporting agricultural opportunities in the Peace region.

“From improving water resources and livestock management to supporting fibre processing and sustainable grazing practices, these initiatives are essential for strengthening food security and fostering economic growth,” said Kantz.