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ABOUT US

The Pemberton Farmer’s Institute supports and promotes agriculture in Pemberton. Our membership includes seed potato growers, organic producers, agri-tourism operators and livestock and equestrian outfits. In recent years, our membership has widened to include many non-farming producers and community members. This widening membership base is consistent with the increased attention being paid to the importance of securing well-grown and good tasting local food. Anyone may join the Pemberton Farmer’s Institute provided they pay their annual dues.

 
 

HISTORY OF FARMING IN PEMBERTON

The book "Pemberton: History of a Settlement" offers a very complete picture of the area through to the end of the 20th century. Of great value too, is the Pemberton Museum. A valuable collection of old farm equipment, restored buildings, books and archives make this an excellent location to explore Pemberton’s agricultural heritage.

Historical highlights:
First Peoples: hunted and fished all through the Lillooet River Valley, and grew potatoes and other vegetables in the fertile lowlands.
Goldrush: Port Pemberton an important stop on the route inland.
Train arrives 1914. (Prior to its arrival, market for fresh vegetables limited to track builders and gold rushers). A dairy industry developed in addition to the fresh vegetables and beef market
1925: The first Farmer's Institute - there have been several incarnations since then.
1940: The big flood that resulted in the formation of the Pemberton Valley Dyking District, and the channeling of the Lillooet and Ryan Rivers.
1945: Seed Potato Control Area designation.
1951: Electricity in the Meadows.
1965: Certified virus free seed potato status.
1989: Current Tissue Culture Technology Seed - Potato Propagation Facility opened