The BCMMB, is working closely with transporters to manage milk pickup through these extremely challenging weather events. The Board is currently considering production management tools to assist producers in filling the market needs, we expect to be able to announce something soon.
Milk Pickup:
Further to yesterday’s notice, we have increased ability to resume milk pickups although still come with many challenges and risk of shutoff again. The following regions of the province are still affected as follows:
- Producers in Abbotsford that fall East of Sumas Way, we may have limited pickups where roadways allow. You are asked to only dump your milk at intervals when you would ‘normally’ be picked up – every other day. Trucks may be late, so your milk disposal should occur prior to the milking after your ‘normal pickup’ timing. This will be very limited. Make sure your bulk tank can be washed with clean, potable water, otherwise your milk should be disposed of until it can be cleaned properly.
- Producers in Chilliwack, Most producers are now scheduled to be picked up and back on their normal schedule, although there may be delays. If no pickup occurs, you are asked to only dump your milk at intervals when you would ‘normally’ be picked up – every other day. Trucks may be late, so your milk disposal should occur prior to the milking after your ‘normal pickup’ timing.
- Producers in Agassiz East of the Woodside Mudslide, Most producers are now scheduled to be picked up and back on their normal schedule although there may be delays. If no pickup occurs, you are asked to only dump your milk at intervals when you would ‘normally’ be picked up – every other day. Trucks may be late, so your milk disposal should occur prior to the milking after your ‘normal pickup’ timing.
- Producers in the BC Interior, normal pickup has resumed effective today and will occur on your ‘normal’ pickup day and time. A few producers were called specifically to dispose of their milk, this has not changed. If you were not called, expect milk pickups to resume. The organic producers in the region will have to continue disposal until further notice but we are actively working on solutions.
- Producers in Prince George/Bulkley Valley/Smithers will not be picked up until further notice. A few select producers have been called and will be picked up based on limited resources. There are no roads available to enter the Lower Mainland for milk delivery, and only limited access to Alberta. We are still actively working on solutions in this region.
- Producers in the Creston/Kootenays will have continued pickup as we can deliver to Alberta.
- Producers on Vancouver Island will have continued pickup, with limited disruption.
Disposal and Reporting
If you are asked to dispose of your milk, align the disposal with ‘normal’ pickup schedule into your manure pit, as we are unsure exactly when pickup can resume. Please do so responsibly. Before disposing, record your dipstick measurement and send in an email,
– Your dipstick reading
– IRMA
– date of disposal
To Lisa Gruban L Gruban@bcmilk.com
Producers across the province can expect disruption to milk quality sample results and components although we expect these to resume shortly. We will do our best to test whatever possible but are uncertain what is available at this time.
We ask for your patience in our communication as we are working around evolving timelines and limited understanding of current road conditions.
If you have questions related to your farm, the impact on quota, quality, transport, or finances, the BCMMB staff directory can be found here: