About Us
Welcome to the Cross-Commodity Leadership Support Project (CCLSP). The project is a partnership of five industry associations and it was born out of the recommendations in the Tree Fruit Industry Stabilization Plan (TFISP). The project intends to bolster capacity in leadership and project management across tree fruit and wine grape sectors. In the short-term, the CCLSP provides a pathway for the TFISP to evolve from a government-led process to industry-led. It aims to demonstrate the value and viability of cross-commodity collaboration and determine the best structure for working together.
To view the full CCLSP strategic plan, click here: 2023-2026 Strategic Plan
PROJECT VISION
The Project’s vision is that British Columbia has strong and vibrant tree fruit and wine grape sectors that are world leaders in environmentally sustainable and profitable production, the agricultural lands and the people that grow food are valued by communities, and our agricultural capacity is protected for future generations.
PROJECT MISSION
The Project’s mission is to provide a forum for tree fruit and wine grape industry associations and stakeholders to coordinate and collaborate on cross-commodity issues while also providing capacity to make meaningful progress on these issues.
Meet our team
Kellie Garcia
Project Director
Kellie has a unique blend of technical expertise, policy and governance experience, and relationship-building skills gained through a diverse work history, an education in environmental sciences, and a commitment to continual learning.
She is a strategic leader who prides herself in always using an integrated and collaborative approach to solve challenges and deliver outcomes. Kellie has lived in the Okanagan most of her life and strongly appreciates the natural and agricultural landscapes that shape the valley and the food and wine grown here.
Shelby Austen
Admin. & Comms. Manager
Shelby holds a degree in Environmental Chemistry from UBC Okanagan and brings a strong background in administration, quality control, and project coordination.
Her previous work with the Okanagan-Kootenay Sterile Insect Release Program sparked a lasting interest in agriculture. With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for working together, she values collaboration that supports agriculture and creates broader community benefits.