B.C. berry, wine grape and tree fruit producers will receive more support to replant their farms, vineyards and orchards with climate-resilient fruit.

Funding through the Enhanced Replant Program is available to help growers increase production, be more climate resilient and access new markets. The intake is expected to support the replanting of approximately 809.4 hectares (2,000 acres) with four streams opening to match their growing cycle this fall: berry replant, tree fruit replant, wine grape replant and berry removal.

Applications for berry replant opened October 21.  Applications for tree fruit replant opens October 28.  Applications for berry removal opens November 12. Applications for wine grape replant opens November 18.  

Overlooking Okanagan Lake, The View Winery, a family-owned and fifth-generation estate, received replant funding to switch to a hardier grape that produces a crisp white wine.

“The funding we received through the Enhanced Replant Program enabled us to replace a less cold-hardy grape variety with Chardonnay vines, which are better suited to withstand the extreme cold-weather events that have become more common in our region,” said Jennifer Molgat, president, The View Winery. “We are thrilled to add Chardonnay to our portfolio and are thankful to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food for its support.” 

For approximately 40 years, Kahlon Farms have been growing raspberries, blueberries and strawberries in the Fraser Valley. The family-owned business has replanted new varieties, helping reposition themselves to meet market needs.

“Plant removal and replanting cost can be a significant barrier to converting berry plantings to climate-adaptable, disease-resistant and higher-yielding varieties,” said Sukh Kahlon, owner, Kahlon Farms. “The Enhanced Replant Program has played a crucial role in maintaining berry industry competitiveness.”

“Perennial crop renewal requires faith and commitment,” says Peter Simonsen, president, BC Fruit Growers’ Association. “In this ever-changing and challenging climate and retail environment, it is essential that British Columbia tree fruit growers continue to be on the varietal and productive leading edge. The investment stimulus created by the enhanced replant shows a commitment to our industry and to the promise of the agricultural land reserve.” 

“The replant program has greatly supported B.C. blueberry growers by providing funding and guidance to replace old or diseased plants with high-yield, disease-tolerant varieties,” says Sudeshna Nambiar, executive director, BC Blueberry Council. “This has improved crop quality, increased productivity and ensured long-term sustainability of farms. The program also encourages innovation and best management practices, helping farmers remain competitive and profitable in an evolving agricultural market.”

Source:  British Columbia Government October 21, 2025 news release