Skip to content

Trade show looks to local food producers

Food security in the South Cariboo will be discussed

Barbara Roden

Free Press

In conjunction with its annual general meeting on Feb. 13, the South Cariboo Agri-Culture Enterprise Centre (Ag Centre) is holding a trade show that runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

It’s open to members of the public, and will give people a chance to meet with local producers and find out more about food security in the region.

The 1996 World Food Summit defined food security as “when all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.”

Lisa De Paoli, South Cariboo Food Security Committee (SCFSC) chair, says a draft of the group’s recent Food Action Plan will be available for people to comment on.

The plan is a step forward in achieving food security in the South Cariboo. How do we get to that?”

She notes many people are accessing food that isn’t nutritious or healthy, or they are not able to get food from their culture that they’re used to. That’s why the event organizers are seeking more community input on the initiative

We want to get feedback on the plan, which will then be analyzed and finalized, so it can get presented to the joint committee meeting of the Cariboo Regional District [south end directors] and the District of 100 Mile House this spring. Then we can start to work on implementing it.”

The trade show will also feature a silent auction, items for purchase and presentations. Lunch will be available to purchase, while entry to the event – which welcomes children – is free.

There’ll be people to talk to and get advice from; everything from planting your garden to setting up your own entrepreneurial opportunity. There will be a wealth of people there with expertise in different areas that will be happy to share that expertise.”

There are a few places left at the trade show for local food producers who would like to participate. Call De Paoli at 250-395-5155, or e-mail manager@theagcentre.ca for more information.

The event will take place at the Valley Room and the Ag Centre. There will be tours of the Ag Centre, which De Paoli says is available for rent to local businesses and organizations that need workspace.

It’s a wonderful networking opportunity. You have entrepreneurial people talking to each other who make more things happen.”

The AGM will take place from 3 to 6 p.m., and a private members’ party will follow. RSVP if you plan to attend.