Update: A summary report is now available, detailing feedback received in response to the discussion paper, “Overview of Agricultural Interests in the B.C. Columbia Basin and Existing Programs and Initiatives”.

View or download the Summary Report: Summary Report on the Columbia River Treaty Agriculture Discussion Paper

Further input is welcomed and encouraged. Scroll down to Next Steps for details.

Discussion Paper

The B.C. Columbia River Treaty Team published a discussion paper on June 18, 2021, summarizing programs and initiatives available to the Columbia Basin agriculture sector, and sought public feedback to learn where there may be gaps.

View or download the discussion paper:  Overview of Agricultural Interests in the B.C. Columbia Basin and Existing Programs and Initiatives

Throughout the Province’s public engagement on the Columbia River Treaty, Basin residents have spoken of agricultural losses sustained when valley bottoms were inundated after construction of the Treaty dams.  Many people have indicated that increased support is needed for areas such as accessing land, financial aid for sustainable farming, irrigation, and dikes.

To help respond to these concerns, the B.C. Treaty Team investigated existing federal, provincial and regional agriculture programs and initiatives with the potential to help address some of the interests.  The findings are presented in the discussion paper. The B.C. Treaty Team invited feedback until September 15, 2021 on whether there are remaining gaps in addressing agriculture interests and concerns, given available programs and initiatives.

Next Steps

The B.C. Treaty Team will share what was heard through this process with provincial ministries and agencies responsible for specific areas of concern, and together, will explore opportunities for enhancing agriculture support.  The Team will also continue working with industry experts and federal, provincial, and regional agencies to better understand Basin agriculture issues, in particular those resulting from Columbia River Treaty impacts, and potential courses of action.

The B.C. Treaty Team appreciates those who have taken time to provide their feedback.  If you have further comments or would like to provide comments for the first time, please send them:

1.  by email to:  columbiarivertreaty@gov.bc.ca
2.  by mail to:

Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
Columbia River Treaty
PO Box 9314 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria BC V8W 9N1

For the latest information on agriculture-related program status and any new programs, visit AgriServiceBC, a key source of information for agricultural programs and supports available to British Columbians.  AgriServiceBC enables producers and processors to independently access existing information resources, to connect directly with knowledgeable staff across the province via phone or email, to participate in a variety of webinars and workshops, and to received regular updates on key information and various opportunities.  Contact: AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca or call 1-888-221-7141.