Meet the people behind B.C.’s tree fruit industry

Sunny Valley Fruit and Carcajou Fruit Co.

B.C. is home to some of the best cherries and peaches in the world. The Okanagan, Similkameen, and Creston Valleys are home to some of B.C.’s best tree fruits. 95% of cherries grown in Canada come from B.C. Cherries are available each year from July to early September. 

B.C. peaches are mainly grown in the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Kootenay Valley. B.C. produces some 23 peach varieties, which accounts for 18% of Canadian peach production. Peaches are available in B.C. in August and early September. 

Two farmers who bring B.C. fruit to your plate are Erin Carlson and family from Carcajou Fruit Company Ltd. in Summerland, and Sunny Dhaliwal from Sunny Valley Fruit in Keremeos. 

“Supporting local farmers ensures family farms can persist and can last. B.C. producers are really excited to share their fruit with Canadians,” said Carlson. 

Shop at farm stands, farmer’s markets, or grocery stores to support our local farmers. 

About the Company: Sunny Valley Fruit

Sunny Valley Fruit is a family-owned and operated business since 1982. They grow apricots, plums, peaches, cherries, nectarines, and apples on their180-acre orchard. Sunny Valley Fruit is operated by third-generation farmer, Sunny Dhaliwal, and his family. 

Location: Keremeos, B.C.
Website: krownproduce.com/Sunny-Valley-Fruit

About the Company: Carcajou Fruit Co.

Carcajou Fruit Co. is a cherry farm owned and operated by the Carlson family. The Carlson family grows nine different varieties of Summerland sweet cherries. 

Location: Summerland, B.C.
Website: carcajoufruit.com