Grains and oilseeds

Grain and oilseed crops have been an economic mainstay of the Peace River region since the early 1900s.

There are approximately 1,000 B.C. producers in this sector, 250 of which are in the B.C. Peace region and account for over 80% of the acreage and production for export. There are approximately 380,000 acres of land in annual field crop production in B.C..  Of this area, just less than 80% is in the Peace region. The remaining land is distributed in the Nechako, Cariboo and Kootenay Regional Districts. The area allocated to B.C.’s main field crops is as follows: Canola 29%, Wheat 23%, Barley 20%, Oats 25%, and Peas 3%.

• In the Peace region, these crops are produced on a large scale and mostly for export
• The Nechako, Cariboo and Kootenay regions use many of these crops, particularly barley and oats, for local uses such as livestock feed.  Very little is harvested as grain and shipped for export

The majority of corn grown in B.C. is used for livestock forage rather than as a grain crop.

Production

In recent years, volatile market prices and seasonal conditions have affected the B.C. grain and oilseed industry. The resources provided in this section are intended to assist crop growers with the management and adaptation of their agriculture business.

Research trials results completed by BC Grain Producers Association:

• Annual Variety Reports

Growing barley varieties and types for growth in Central B.C.:

• Barley Variety Descriptions and Central B.C. Recommendations (PDF)

Information on the management of plant pests and diseases, and current pesticide and crop protection updates for grains and oilseed crops:

• Plant Pests & Diseases
• Crop Protection ("Blue Book" - Government of Alberta)

Custom Rate Estimates for certain operations on farms:

• Custom Rates Survey Summary (Government of Alberta)

Regulation

Read more on the Grain Industry Development Fund Regulation under the Farming and Fishing Industries Development Act:

• Farming and Fishing Industries Development Act
• Grain Industry Development Fund Regulation

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has a mandate to ensure a safe food supply for everyone in Canada.  Other local, provincial and federal legislation and regulations apply.

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency