Thankfully, orchards often dodge the fiery wrath of wildfires. Since orchards are typically well-maintained, with spaced-out trees and well-irrigate soil, they create natural firebreaks. Plus, fruit trees don’t fuel fires like dry brush does.
Additionally, smoke from wildfire does not impact tree fruit development as it sometimes does grapes. The thick skin of apples, pears, and other tree fruits acts as a protective barrier, reducing the absorption of smoke compounds, and leaving the delicious fruit unaffected.
Although the orchards and their delicious fruit remained unscathed by wildfires this season, the impact is felt indirectly. Wildfires have deterred tourists from visiting, slowing down the flow of eager customers and impacting sales. The reduced foot traffic means fewer people going to U-pick orchards, visiting roadside fruit stands, and enjoying local, seasonal Okanagan tree fruit. While the fruit itself remains unharmed, the economic ripple effect of diminished tourism can pose challenges for orchard businesses during wildfire seasons.
Now, more than ever, it is important for consumers to Buy BC fruit. “Support your neighbourhood grower by buying directly from their farms. Look at the package labels in the store and pick BC-grown fruit – and if BC fruit isn’t available in store, help to create a demand for local produce by asking your grocer for it,” says Glen Lucas, BCFGA General Manager.
Buying BC fruit directly contributes to the livelihoods of local farmers and the vibrancy of regional economies. Each purchase is a vote for ethical consumption, exceptional taste, and fostering a resilient, homegrown food system.
“Apples and plums are getting picked in orchards as we speak, and nectarine, peach, and pear growers are just wrapping up their harvests. There’s still a whole lot of beautiful, fresh, local fruit on the market and more to savour in the upcoming weeks,” Lucas encouraged.