Farmer Reach Out Guide
* 5 MINUTE READ BELOW. PLEASE READ THROUGHLY. *
What Are We Doing?
I NEED YOU TO REACH OUT TO LOCAL FARMERS AND INVITE THEM TO THE FARMER TOWNHALLS
We are building a stronger farming community in BC
by inviting farmers to attend Farmer Town Halls this January/Feb.
These town halls are a space for farmers to:
- Share their challenges and experiences.
- Collaborate on solutions to the growing issues facing local farms.
- Build a united voice to advocate for change and a sustainable future.
Why Is This Important?
This initiative isn’t just about saving farms;
It’s about ensuring food security and strengthening our communities for future generations.
Upcoming Townhall Locations
Abbotsford
Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
Time: 5 PM - 8 PM
Location: Singh Farms - 494 Sumas Way, Abbotsford, BC
South Surrey
Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
Time: 5 PM - 8 PM
Location: Full Circle Healing Farm - 17951 0 Ave, South Surrey, BC
Port Coquitlam
Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
Time: 5 PM - 8 PM
Location: The Plant Place - 346 Laurier Ave, Port Coquitlam, BC
Why Is Farming Failing in BC?
BC is on track to see a record number of farm foreclosures in 2025.
Our local food systems are on the verge of collapse because:
1. Rising Costs
High expenses for labor, land, and equipment make farming financially unsustainable.
2. Environmental Instability
Extreme weather events are increasingly disrupting farming operations.
3. Government Regulations
Excessive red tape limits farmers' ability to adapt and innovate.
4. Foreign Competition
Cheaper imports undercut local farmers and challenge their viability.
How to Find Farmers
Here are some methods to identify and reach out to farmers:
Text, Email or Call Directly: Reach out from your personal account.
Online Research:
Google Search: Look for local farms in BC. Search terms like “local farms near [town/city]” or “farms in [region]”.
Social Media: Search hashtags like #BCFarmers, #LocalFarms, or #SupportFarmers.
Directories: Check online farm directories like BC’s Agricultural Society listings.
Facebook Marketplace: Look for old listings of farmers selling produce in your region.
Facebook Groups: Join farming or agriculture-focused groups (e.g., Langley Farmers).
Farming Organizations: Contact organizations like the BC Agriculture Council, BC Dairy Association, or Egg Farmers of BC.
The 11 Farming Groups in BC
- Dairy & Meat Farmers
- Poultry & Egg Farmers
- Vegetable Farmers
- Greenhouse Farmers
- Blueberry/Fruit Farmers
- Cranberry Farmers
- Small-Scale Farms
- Nursery Farmers
- Grain & Oilseed Farmers
- Beekeepers
- Aquaculture Farmers
What You Should Say
Here’s a simple script to guide your conversations:
Hey [Farmer's Name],
We’d like to invite you to the local Farmer Town Hall in [Closest Townhall To Them + Date]
to unite farmers, share concerns, and work together to change the industry.
This is important as BC is on track to see a record number of farm foreclosures in 2025
Are you interested in coming?
Please RSVP here so we know you are coming: www.instaberry.ca/farmers
[Full details Townhall location, date, and time]
[Your Name]
Pro Tips for Conversations
- Follow Up: Farmers are busy and may not reply right away. Send a polite follow-up message.
- Be Concise: Keep your message short and focused. Use white space so its easy on the eyes. NO LARGE BLOCKS OF TEXT.
- Engage Further: If they show interest, make a note to follow up closer to the event date.
My number is 778-552-5069
Text me directly if you need anything.
- Much love to you all
Gagan