B.C.’s climate is changing. Hotter temperatures, insufficient snow accumulation, faster spring snowmelt, glacier loss, and reduced precipitation over extended periods of time can cause drought and water scarcity. As the climate continues to warm, drought and resulting water scarcity will become more common.
Farmers who have an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) learn how to reduce agriculture's impact on the environment. Many Environmental Farm Plan participants enjoy increased efficiency, profitability, and new customers as a result of increased environmental sustainability. (Ministry of Agriculture and Food)
Brooklyn Blueberries Ltd. is nestled between mountain ranges in the Fraser Valley and is run by Steve and Pauline Luteyn. With the assistance of Zachary Fleming, their planning advisor, the Luteyns completed an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) in January 2025.
With the support of his EFP Advisor, Steve was guided through the completion of his Environmental Farm Plan workbook. Throughout the process, he was able to identify key sustainability and water security shortcomings of the blueberry farm.
Steve Luteyn found the process empowering. "If you are a farmer looking to have a professional come to your farm to help you identify environmental improvements," mused Steve, "This is the program to empower you and find funding to rectify and protect it."
After completing his workbook, Steve applied for funding support available through the Beneficial Management Practices (BMP) program to address one of the deficiencies highlighted in his EFP. He hopes to secure the assistance of an irrigation designer to help him draw up plans and revamp his old irrigation system, which was prone to overwatering plants. The new drip irrigation lines, pump, and remote sensors will give precise readings and watering schedules to use fewer cubic meters of water as well as less energy, addressing the water and energy usage issues outlined by his advisor in Brooklynn Blueberries' EFP.
The EFP program has been instrumental in helping farmers realize their commitment to sustainable farming practices while enhancing their operational efficiency.
Funding for these programs have been provided by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a $3.5 billion, 5-year agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments. Additional funding has been provided by CleanBC. The program is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF).
