Lisa 0221
Last year around this time, we didn’t know that soon we would slowly be forced into changing our personal day-to-day habits, our working life and business structures due to circumstances beyond our control. The start of this year feels more hopeful. While there are many limitations, I too have worries and stress, but I try to run my days with as much hope and optimism as possible.
In this year’s Tractor Survey we asked some of our readers what they hoped for in 2021 and the answers were as diverse and similar as we all are. Some growers are planting new crops, some are ripping crops out, while others are keeping things just the way they are. There is something exciting and hopeful about planting a new crop and also something very comforting about staying the course. Whatever you choose this year, I hope you keep your spirits up and enjoy your day-to-day life. Read the full survey results and more information about tractors inside this issue.
There is also a very fascinating article on apple texture. The research and study that is going on at Vineland Research Station was very interesting for me. I learnt a few new words too that I had to look up. The two words, briefly were: ‘penetrometer’ used to asses texture in apples and ‘tribology’ which measures the principles of friction, lubrication and wear, now used together helps test the juiciness, crispness, and mealiness. There sure is a lot that goes into choosing an apple before it is sampled by a select group of people. I will definably have a new appreciation next time I take a bite of a juicy, crispy, sweet apple.
The BC Wine Institute announces an exciting new name and initials to represent the growing multifaceted industry of value-added agriculture and agri-food, see page 45 for more details.
Marketing to customers can be baffling, so we may tend to leave it on the back burner while other business duties call. Inside we bring you some useful pointers on marketing; like email marketing, your website and online presence and the customer journey as it relates to your goals and direct to consumer sales from marketing pros Leeann Froese and Adrianne Stillman.
Spring is coming and soon the blossoms will be on the trees. I hope all goes well, you have a great spring season and keep your dreams alive!
Enjoy the magazine!