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 (ClimateReadyBC).
The Beneficial Management Practices (BMP) Program works to help producers contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment with projects that improve waste management, air quality control, emissions control, soil and riparian integrity, and environmental impacts.
In the heart of Peace River, the BMP Program has made a significant impact on sustainable farming operations. A prime example of this success is E&C Weitzel Holdings Ltd, managed by Eckbert Weitzel, who exemplifies a commitment to environmental stewardship while enhancing the productivity of his ranch.
Eckbert faced a pressing challenge on his ranch: several small dugouts were being negatively affected by direct cattle access. With the guidance of his planning advisor Kari Bondaroff, and the resources provided by the IAF staff, Weitzel was able to recognize the potential environmental impact. To address it, he applied to the BMP Program and with its support, decided to invest in two additional solar water buggies and implement fencing to restrict cattle access to these water sources.
“The solar water buggies provide a real opportunity for improved water supply to the livestock,” Eckbert noted. By fencing the dugouts using permanently installed electric fencing, he aimed not only to safeguard the water sources but also to facilitate wildlife access and reduce maintenance costs. The electric fencing was a strategic choice, ensuring durability and efficiency over traditional barbed wire.
The BMP Program played a crucial role in enabling Eckbert to realize this vision. “We would not have been able to implement this BMP without the financial assistance of the BMP program. Thank you for the opportunity to make these improvements,” he expressed, highlighting the program’s support for agricultural sustainability efforts.
Eckbert also commended the user-friendly nature of the program’s application and reporting processes, stating, “The process is transparent and easy to follow. I do find the email reminders of pending reviews or editing requests and upcoming deadlines very helpful; please keep this up!”
Thanks to the BMP Program’s financial assistance, E&C Weitzel Holdings Ltd has successfully implemented essential improvements that benefit both the environment and the ranch. This success story showcases how the BMP Program helps producers like Eckbert create cleaner, healthier agricultural practices while overcoming challenges in farming.
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).
