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Agriculture

New Plant and Animal Health Centre to Enhance Food Safety in British Columbia

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Government of British Columbia is investing in a new plant and animal health centre to protect the food supply, farmers, and public health. The new centre will replace the current 30-year-old facility, which suffered damages during the 2021 floods, and will provide updated testing for farmers. The centre will handle over 10,000 cases annually, detecting diseases such as avian influenza, West Nile virus, and chronic wasting disease. Staff will conduct over 100,000 tests annually, ensuring the health and safety of livestock and crops.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new plant and animal health centre will be built at 34252 King Rd., next to the University of Fraser Valley's Abbotsford campus.
  • The centre will replace the current 30-year-old facility, which suffered damages during the 2021 floods.
  • The new centre will provide updated testing for farmers, enabling them to make informed decisions on their farms.
  • The centre will handle over 10,000 cases annually, detecting diseases such as avian influenza, West Nile virus, and chronic wasting disease.
  • Staff at the lab conduct over 100,000 tests annually, ensuring the health and safety of livestock and crops.
  • The Province has approved up to $496 million to buy the land, build the new facility, and buy equipment.
  • Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with enhanced services available to B.C. producers by 2032.
  • The centre will play a key role in the Province's veterinary, diagnostic, and food safety programs.
  • The centre is one of Western Canada's leading full-service veterinary laboratories.

Statistics:

  • The centre will handle over 10,000 cases annually.
  • Staff at the lab conduct over 100,000 tests annually.
  • The Province has approved up to $496 million to buy the land, build the new facility, and buy equipment.
  • The new centre is expected to be completed by 2032.
  • The centre will replace the current 30-year-old facility.

Sources:

  • Government of British Columbia, News Release: New plant and animal health centre to enhance food safety in British Columbia.

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