Jot Enterprises Ltd. is a well-established blueberry farm in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, producing and harvesting a wide range of blueberry varieties. Like many growers in the region, some of the farm’s blueberry plants were affected by Blueberry Scorch Virus (BlScV), a persistent and damaging threat to blueberry production across the province.

Blueberry scorch virus was first identified in BC in 2000 and has since become widespread in all blueberry-growing regions. The virus is spread by aphids or infected planting stock and can cause severe blossom and leaf blighting, leading to significant yield losses (Ministry of Agriculture and Food).

At Jot Enterprises, high levels of blueberry scorch virus were identified in three acres of Elliott variety blueberries. Given the permanent nature of the disease and the risk it posed to surrounding plantings, the decision was made to remove the infected acreage entirely. While necessary, removing established blueberry plantings represents a significant financial and operational challenge.

To help offset these costs, Jot Enterprises applied to Stream 4: Berry Removal of the Enhanced Replant Program (ERP). Stream 4 is designed to support growers in removing diseased or unproductive plant material. Jot Enterprises’ application was approved, providing critical financial assistance.

The farm successfully removed three acres of Elliott blueberries affected by blueberry scorch virus. This proactive step reduced the risk of virus spread and laid the groundwork for future replanting and improved farm productivity.

Reflecting on the experience, Amtoj Kaur Gill shared: “We found the Enhanced Replant Program very helpful in supporting improvements on our farm. The program made it easier for us to move forward with replanting and strengthening our production for the future. The application process was straightforward, and the support provided by the IAF team was greatly appreciated. Thank you again for your work supporting growers in BC.”

By investing in disease management and renewal through ERP, Jot Enterprises has taken an important step toward safeguarding the long-term sustainability of their operation. The program reduced financial barriers and allowed Jot Enterprises to act decisively in addressing a serious plant health issue rather than delaying action and risking further losses.

The Enhanced Replant Program is funded by the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. In February 2025, Jot Enterprises Ltd was approved to receive $5,000 in funding from ERP to remove 3 acres of blueberry plants. For a full list of approved ERP projects, visit iafbc.ca/erp/approved-projects/.