August 23, 2024
Dear neighbour,
In recent weeks, our Sandher Fruit Packers team has made a lot of progress towards ensuring that we’re ready for the fall harvest — in full compliance with the Ministry of Environment — and in a position to support our peers in BC’s fruit industry.
The City of Kelowna has agreed to process water used in our fruit washing and packing line while the Ministry of Environment reviews our detailed water management systems permit application. This arrangement is temporary, and Sandher Fruit Packers will pay the City for this service. The permit is attached below:
The City’s assistance comes at a particularly challenging time as our industry has faced the lingering effects of the pandemic, labour shortages, extreme weather and the recent closure of BC Tree Fruits Cooperative.
With the fall harvest fast approaching, this solution will allow us and other local growers to get fruit to families across Canada. The Ministry of Environment has confirmed this interim solution complies with their standards, allowing the facility to operate to meet both our needs, and the needs of other growers across the region. The letter of approval and support from the Ministry of Environment is attached below:
Earlier this year, we committed to upholding a higher standard at Sandher Fruit Packers. That’s why we brought on a new senior leadership team, hired leading environmental and engineering consultants, and made the necessary repairs and upgrades to our facility.
We will continue working diligently and transparently to ensure we can protect the environment and support our industry and community.
Kommentare