The Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) undertook research to better understand the needs and issues of non-certified organic producers which deter them from participating in organic certification programs, and investigate possible solutions. The COABC Small-Scale Certification Research Project (SSCRP) process began with the development of a communications strategy and the creation of an SSCRP Advisory Committee. Once this was completed, the kick off for the project involved the identification of key stakeholders within and outside of COABC to approach for consultation. The intent was to engage with stakeholders throughout the project that have left certification, those that are not certified, but claiming to be organic, and urban agriculturalists.
Strategic Plan for the BC Certified Organic Sector – 2013-18
The Strategic Plan for the BC Certified Organic Sector - 2013-18 is now available here
PST Returns on April 1, 2013
Be ready for the return of the PST! The BC Ministry of Finance issued a PST Bulletin for Farmers to help them navigate the return of the PST.
This bulletin makes clear there are 2 ways to claim exemption to the PST.
1) Submit a completed Certificate of Exemption–Farmer form (FIN 458) to each of your suppliers or
2)Show your current BC Farmer Identity Card. Become a registered card holder here
COABC Apple Panel
During Organic week this year, COABC co-sponsored an Apple panel at the Organic Okanagan Festival held at Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Kelowna. The panel included orchardists, both organic and conventional, and a GMO expert. They dicussed the repercussions of the potential introduction of the GMO "Arctic Apple".
Thanks to event organizers we are able to share the panel in this 4 part video series.
This Phrase and Program Symbol are the legal property of the British Columbia Provincial Government. Use of this Phrase and Program Symbol requires written authorization from an accredited certifying agency of the COABC. All other uses are prohibited
The Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) undertook research to better understand the needs and issues of non-certified organic producers which deter them from participating in organic certification programs, and investigate possible solutions. The COABC Small-Scale Certification Research Project (SSCRP) process began with the development of a communications strategy and the creation of an SSCRP Advisory Committee. Once this was completed, the kick off for the project involved the identification of key stakeholders within and outside of COABC to approach for consultation. The intent was to engage with stakeholders throughout the project that have left certification, those that are not certified, but claiming to be organic, and urban agriculturalists.
The Strategic Plan for the BC Certified Organic Sector - 2013-18 is now available here
