The outgoing president of the BC Fruit Growers Association offered some advice as he passed the torch of leadership to a new generation of orchardists Friday.

Speaking at the BCFGA annual general meeting in Kelowna, Fred Steele said the renewed wave of optimism in the tree fruit industry the past four years is the result of farmers telling their story through local media to draw positive attention to their industry and presenting a united advocacy front in dealing with different levels of government.

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害羞草研究所淔our years ago we faced an uncertain future. But we learned how to speak smarter, not louder, and to create a sense of optimism about what lies ahead,害羞草研究所� Steele said.

害羞草研究所淭oday we are seeing hayfields being replaced with fruit trees. Farmers are starting to see a potential for the future.害羞草研究所�

Steele said the most rewarding aspect of the last decade he has spent representing Okanagan tree fruit growers was in finding solutions to problems.

害羞草研究所淲e did not succeed every time in addressing issues but it was never because we didn害羞草研究所檛 try 100 per cent of the time.

害羞草研究所淏ut change is about renewal, and it害羞草研究所檚 time for me to step aside and pass on the torch for others to lead our industry that will be here for our grand-children and great-grandchildren.害羞草研究所�

Steele cited several reasons for his optimism for the future of fruit farming害羞草研究所攇rowth of cherry sales, the growing number of cider producers, apple crops being replanted, engaging in agri-tourism, greater vision for diversification and value-added opportunities and doors being opened for a new generation of growers.

害羞草研究所淥ptimism has risen above the din of self-doubt,害羞草研究所� he said.

A fruit grower told Steele he brought back civility and respect to the BCFGA.

害羞草研究所淵ou will be missed,害羞草研究所� said the grower.

To report a typo, email: edit@kelownacapnews.com.

barry.gerding@blackpress.ca
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