Addressing concerns and complaints about audible bird scare devices

The vast majority of crops vulnerable to bird predation are grown successfully using one or more of the control practices available including audible bird scare devices. In a few cases, the farm practices lead to complaints. If you have such a complaint there are several options available.

Local government bylaw enforcement

Local government bylaw enforcement may also address the concern and is a good place to start. There are several tools for addressing bird scare device complaints available to local governments across the province.

• In the lower mainland, Pitt Meadows handles the complaints directly
• Other lower mainland governments may direct initial complaints to the BC Blueberry Council.

Ministry of Agriculture and Food staff

Ministry staff are also available to address concerns about farm practices.

• For the Metro Vancouver or Lower Fraser Valley, call the Abbotsford office: 604-556-3001 
  (or toll-free: 1-888-221-7141)
• For the Okanagan Valley, call the Kelowna office: 250 861-7211 (or toll free: 1-888-332-3352)
• In other areas, contact Ministry offices

British Columbia Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB)

At any time, you may also file a formal complaint with the British Columbia Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) in Victoria. The Board has the mandate under the Farm Practices Protection (Right To Farm) Act to determine if the farm operation is following “normal farm practice” and whether the practice is protected under the Act.

• To contact BCFIRB, call 250-356-8945
• Information on how to file a complaint can be found on the BCFIRB website