Thomas Tumbach, a long-time farmer in Garnet Valley, British Columbia, faced the devastating loss of his residence and multiple structures on his 4.85-hectare farm due to the intense Bald Range wildfire. His organic crops were at their peak when the fire struck, mirroring the situation of other farmers in the broader Okanagan area who are grappling with the destruction or inability to sell their produce.
Despite the personal tragedy, Tumbach remained committed to aiding fellow local producers. He collaborated with chef Ned Bell on the “Summerland Sauce Project,” an initiative where Bell crafted hundreds of liters of sauce using locally sourced ingredients purchased from affected farmers. Profits from the sauce sales will be channeled back to support farmers impacted by the wildfire, particularly those whose crops were destroyed.
Expressing resilience, Tumbach emphasized the determination to bolster the regional food supply chain and support the community. Bell’s inaugural sauce for the project, named ‘Ned’s Ratatouille,’ features a blend of Okanagan-grown vegetables like eggplant, squash, and peppers, available for purchase at the LocalMotive Low-Waste Market in Penticton, British Columbia.
With Summerland accommodating numerous wildfire evacuees, including Tumbach, Bell, a Naramata resident with roots in the area, highlighted the challenges faced by local farmers. In addition to evacuation disruptions, farmers are contending with reduced tourism and climate-related impacts on their harvests, leading to decreased sales.
Recognizing the need to promote nutrient-rich options and minimize food waste, Bell plans to introduce a diverse range of sauces in the coming weeks, potentially incorporating surplus fresh fruits. The devastating Bald Range wildfire, which erupted on August 7 and rapidly spread near Summerland, has consumed over 210 square kilometers, presenting unprecedented challenges for residents and farmers alike.
Reflecting on the catastrophic losses, Tumbach recounted the harrowing experience of evacuating his farm and the overwhelming destruction caused by the fire. Despite the immense personal loss, his focus remained on the well-being of others, underscoring the communal spirit prevalent among affected individuals.
Bell highlighted the urgent requirement for ongoing support initiatives like the Summerland Sauce Project to aid the wildfire-stricken B.C. Interior region’s farming community. As wildfires continue to pose a persistent threat, he emphasized the imperative need to safeguard and assist farmers in the face of future challenges.