Agrifood Innovation and Sustainability receives funding

Dec 12, 2014

Federal and British Columbia governments working together

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and B.C. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick announced a partnership and commitment of more than $4.3 million to support innovation, food safety, business development and sustainability in the province’s agricultural community.

"These projects help support the environmental sustainability of B.C. farmers through climate change adaption and Environmental Farm Plan programs, and economically through projects supporting sector research, market development and new technology. These factors all contribute to B.C.'s modern and diverse agrifoods industry, the 60,000 people it employs, and the food security it brings to our province,” B.C. Minister of Agriculture Norm Letnick said.

The Growing Forward 2 Agreement, a $3 billion investment by all levels of government scheduled to end in 2018, will continue to focus on ensuring Canadian producers and processors have the necessary tools to contribute to the economy.

"Our government is proud to continue to make strategic investments such as these to increase profitability and competitiveness in Canada's agriculture sector. The work being accomplished through Growing Forward 2 will enable research and development and enhance production and export capacities to grow a bright future for Canadian businesses,” said Agricultural Minister Gerry Ritz.

Other projects funded include tool and guide developments for farmers and animal health and surveillance.

"We're pleased to be working together with government and all stakeholders to continually advance agriculture in British Columbia. The programs and services delivered through the (BC Agricultural Research & Development Corporation) support B.C. farmers and ranchers adopting new farming practices in environmental sustainability and food safety to keep B.C. grown and raised foods safe, sustainable and competitive,” said ARDCorp chair Allen James.

View more information about Growing Forward 2.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.