Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows farmers won’t need to go almost as far for their feed and animal materials quickly, as Bruce’s Country Market just recently revealed they will be opening up a brand-new animal and farm supply store in east Maple Ridge.
After the closure of the Otter Co-op in Pitt Meadows in 2022, the majority of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows farmers were required to take a trip to other farm supply shops, with numerous making the trek all the method out to the nearby Otter Co-op in Aldergrove – almost a 40-minute drive from the heart of Pitt Meadows.
However, that long journey might quickly be cut much shorter thanks to the brand-new Bruce’s Pet and Farm Supply store, which is scheduled to open in September.
This is an important requirement for individuals of Pitt Meadows considering that the city relies so greatly on farming and farming, explained Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald.
“Given that Pitt Meadows is 78 per cent agricultural land, convenient access to essential supplies supports local agriculture, fosters a sense of community, and contributes to the local economy,” said MacDonald.
“I am very pleased to hear about the new pet and farm supply store opening in Maple Ridge.”
An effort was made to attempt and move the sale of Otter Co-op items to the Maple Meadows Equestrian Centre, however this was shot down by the Agricultural Land Commission on Nov. 15, 2022.
“The closure of the Otter Co-op in Pitt Meadows created a significant gap in access to farm feed and supplies, jeopardizing the economic viability of our local producers,” said MacDonald.
“Our city council strongly advocated on behalf of a local agricultural operator who willingly stepped forward to become a replacement supplier. Unfortunately, however, the necessary provincial authorization was unsuccessful.”
When revealing the launch of their brand-new farm supply store, Bruce’s Country Market owners Ryan and Leona McEachern explained that they were likewise acquainted with the stress of not having a regional Otter Co-op any longer.
“Being farmers ourselves, we felt the huge loss that Otter left when they closed their doors in Pitt Meadows,” said the McEacherns.
“We recognized the need for a Lifeline supplier in our area and we listened to the voice of our community. We will also be carrying farm supplies, pet needs, country-style gifts, and in-season gardening supplies.”
The brand-new store will have a Lifeline Feed agreement to bring the Otter Co-op brand name of animal feed, in addition to a variety of other pet food and supply brand names.
“While the new pet and farm supply store in Maple Ridge does not replace the Otter Co-op, having a nearby store is a positive step towards maintaining and supporting our farming community,” said Mayor MacDonald.
Bruce’s Pet and Farm Supply will be found in the old Muth and Sons building, at 23985 Lougheed Hwy., ideal next door to Bruce’s Country Market.
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Leona McEachern (centre) is among the owners of Bruce’s Country Market, which revealed in June that it will be opening a brand-new farm and animal supply store in Maple Ridge. (Bruce’s Country Market/Special to The News)
