BC Seed Orchard Association (BCSOA)

The BC Seed Orchard Association (BCSOA) is a group of tree seed orchardists interested in the exchange of technical, operational, research and development information to promote good seed orchard management. The purpose has remained constant since the 1980’s, but the actual name, scope of meetings in BC, and frequency has changed over time.

The main function of the group is to host a meeting every two years which alternates between coastal and interior locations. The organizational committee changes each meeting and is primarily composed of those preparing the local arrangements (i.e. facilities, program, tours) for the next meeting. The group has often had joint meetings with the Northwest Seed Orchard Managers Association (NWSOMA) and attendance from other jurisdictions is encouraged. This is a highly specialized area and it is important that there is a forum for the exchange of local initiatives and discussion of common problems.

NEW: Webinar Series

In a typical year, BC Seed Orchard Association (BCSOA) holds its biennial meetings in-person. However, due to the current economic downturn, ongoing travel limitations, and budgetary constraints, the organizing committee has decided to postpone the 2026 BCSOA meeting to June 2027.

While this decision is unfortunate, it provides the opportunity to expand BSCOA’s role and services. To maintain connections and knowledge exchange, we are launching a BCSOA Webinar Series in the spring and fall of 2026.

About the 2026 Webinar Series

The webinar series will provide a platform for seed orchard managers, technicians, seed specialists, researchers, students, and industry professionals to share:

• Advances and innovations in seed orchard design and management
• New developments in orchard establishment
• Cone and seed handling
• Equipment innovations
• Research findings and operational trials
• And other emerging topics in seed supply

In 2026, we plan to host four short webinars, each featuring two 15-minute presentations. To broaden perspectives and reduce regional silos, each webinar will highlight a distinct geographic region.

By connecting with colleagues beyond our own organizations, provinces, and countries, we hope to foster stronger collaboration and richer discussions leading up to our in-person BCSOA meeting in Northern BC in June 2027.

March 12, 2026 – Eastern Canada

Date: March 12, 2026
Time: 9:00 – 10:00 AM (PST)

Speakers: 

Fabienne Colas
Technical Manager – Seed Centre, Seed Orchards, and Nursery
Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts, Québec
(Presentation details to follow)

Courtney McDonald
Orchard Supervisor
JD Irving Parkindale Seed Orchard
A Revolution in Seed Extraction and Handling

🔗 Please register here: Webinar Registration
🔗 By registering, you will automatically be added to the BCSOA mailing list.

Tentative 2026 Webinar Schedule

• Eastern Canada – March 12
• Western Canada – April (TBD)
• USA – October (TBD)
• International (Off-continent) – November (TBD)

Details for upcoming sessions will be shared via the mailing list.

We encourage you to share this invitation with colleagues who may be interested in topics related to seed supply, seed orchards, and seed and cone handling.

Mail list sign up and/or Webinar registration March 12^th – Click here

We also welcome proposals for future webinar presentations or for the June 2027 in-person meeting.

If you have any questions, please contact us at: BCSOA2027@gmail.com

We look forward to connecting with you this spring.

Sincerely,
Frederik Vroom
On behalf of the BCSOA 2027 Organizing Committee

Upcoming In-person meetings

Quesnel and Prince George – Summer 2027

Past Meetings

June 18-19, 2024 – Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, BC  – Program

June 28-29, 2022 – Vance Creek Conference Centre, Vernon, BC –  Schedule

June 16, 2021 – Virtual Conference – Schedule