BC Agriculture Council (BCAC) is the lead industry advocate for key sector-wide priorities in British Columbia.
About the Forum
The purpose of the BC Agriculture Forum is to heighten awareness of the urgent challenges facing farmers and ranchers today while providing a strategic platform for meaningful discussions between partners to generate high-impact solutions.
This inaugural event, presented by BC Agriculture Council, is uniquely positioned to convene dynamic leaders from both government and the agriculture sector to strengthen our communication and collaboration.
Event Overview
Wednesday June 24th
Farm Tours, Research Centre & Welcome Reception (Limited availability)
Tours: Savannah Ridge Cherries, Brar-Star Farms & Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre
Welcome Reception: Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards
Day 1 of the forum begins with a half-day farm tour, offering participants the opportunity to engage directly with farmers, learn firsthand about the realities of running a farm, and the challenges and opportunities our sector faces in British Columbia. In between the farm tours is a stop at the Summerland Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre providing key insights on the linkages between food, nutrition and health, securing and protecting food production, and balancing the activities of agriculture with the goal of a sustainable environment.
The day will conclude with a Welcome Reception at Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards located on the historic Greata Ranch site; a serene oasis offering stunning, expansive views of Okanagan Lake. Enjoy conversations and connections while savouring delicious, locally inspired fare.
Thursday June 25th
Policy Conference & Gala Reception
Location: Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Day 2 will feature thought-provoking keynotes, informative sessions – including an inside look into BC politics with chief political commentator Keith Baldrey and award-winning journalist, Vaughn Palmer – and a collaborative roundtable session. Attendees will not only deepen their understanding of the sector’s challenges and opportunities but will also play an active role in shaping strategic solutions.
The event will conclude with a Gala Reception, providing a celebratory setting to strengthen connections and partnerships formed throughout the Forum. The Gala Reception replaces BCAC’s annual BC Agri-Food Industry Gala that has historically been held in January preceding the Pacific Agriculture Show.
Event Program
Please note: current timing is approximate, and further details will be announced soon.
Day 1: Wednesday, June 24, 2026*
10:00-12:00 pm: Registration Opens
12:00-5:00 pm: Farm Tours & Summerland Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre (includes lunch)
Sponsored by BC Ministry of Agriculture & Food
5:00-7:00 pm: Welcome Reception at Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards (in Peachland, just a 25min drive from Penticton)
Sponsored by Scotiabank
*Space is limited for the farm tours and Welcome Reception – we encourage you to secure your spot today!
Day 2: Thursday, June 25, 2026
8:00-8:30 am: Doors Open & Networking
8:30-12:15 pm: Speaking Engagements
Opening Remarks
Keynote Speaker #1
Sponsored by TD Agriculture Services
Session #1
Session #2
Session #3: Featuring Keith Baldry and Vaughn Palmer
12:15-1:00 pm: Lunch
1:00-4:15 pm: Speaking Engagements
Policy Roundtable Session
Session #4
Keynote Speaker #2
Sponsored by SFU B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation
6:15-10:00 pm: Gala Reception & Program
Sponsored by Agricultural Credit Corporation
Ticket Pricing
Member Ticket (19+)
CA$400.00 GST excl.
This ticket is for staff or farmers and ranchers affiliated with one of BCAC’s member organizations. For a list of all BCAC members, visit: www.bcac.ca/about-us/members/
Non-Member Ticket (19+)
CA$525.00 GST excl.
This ticket is for those not affiliated with one of BCAC’s member associations. For a list of all BCAC members, visit: www.bcac.ca/about-us/members/
Government Ticket (19+)
CA$400.00 GST excl.
This ticket is for individuals who are elected officials or employed by federal, provincial, or municipal governments.
BC Young Farmer Ticket (19-40 years old)
CA$250.00 GST excl.
This ticket is for BC Young Farmers (aged 19- 40 years old).
Companion Ticket (Gala Reception Only 19+)
CA$150.00 GST excl.
This ticket is for the Gala Reception only and does not include admission to the Farm Tour or Forum sessions.
Farm Tour Add-on:
Visit several local farms and the Summerland Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre. Lunch is included.
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BCAC Member, Young Farmer, & Government CA$50.00 GST excl.
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Non-BCAC Member CA$75.00 GST excl.
