Ranch Owner Says Sale Is Win-Win

It’s business as usual for the Coldstream Ranch — despite a major deal to sell part of their land for a new agricultural venture.

Vegpro International of Quebec is investing 60 million dollars into a new salad greens farm and packing plant after buying 700 acres from the ranch.

Ranch owner Keith Balcaen says the deal may raise questions from some people about the ranch’s future.

Pictured: Keith Balcaen, owner/operator of Coldstream Ranch

“Because of our size — we are just under 9,000 acres — and selling 700 acres — we still fully plan to continue running our full cow-calf operation, and no changes to Coldstream Ranch or our employees,” Balcaen tells Kiss FM.

Balcaen says he first started talking to Vegpro in July, and says he’s most pleased the deal will create good solid employment for  Coldstream.

“I like the idea of the family aspect. I like the idea of basically the farming, but most of all, it’s good solid employment for Coldstream.”

Balcaen says the site will be from Grey Road east – on the north side of Highway 6.

“It’s a big chunk that is south facing, which is the better aspect for growing the vegetables. And it’s all fully irrigated which they need water, so it fit for them.”

Balcaen calls it a win-win for both the company and the ranch.

The sale price hasn’t been disclosed.

Vegpro plans to open its venture by June, and will be hiring up to 200 employees.