Image: Google Maps / Abbotsford is set to receive a new plant and animal health centre in 2032 after the current centre (pictured) was damaged in the 2021 floods.

By Alyssa Conti

NEW TEST SITE

Province to launch new plant, animal health centre in Abbotsford

Oct 18, 2025 | 1:01 PM

ABBOTSFORD — The B.C. government is building a new plant and animal health centre to combat farm-based diseases in Abbotsford.

“B.C. farmers, producers and processors rely on fast, accurate testing to keep their animals healthy and their operations running smoothly,” said Lana Popham, minister of agriculture and food. “This new centre will help producers prevent and respond to disease threats, protect our food supply and support public health.”

The new centre will be located next to UFV’s Abbotsford campus, just off Highway 1, to replace the 30-year-old centre.

The current centre handles over 10,000 cases and 100,000 tests annually from farmers and organizations to detect and prevent diseases like avian flu, West Nile virus and chronic wasting disease.

It was severely damaged during the 2021 floods and has needed replacement to meet the rising demand for testing.

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“As the agricultural capital of B.C., the City of Abbotsford understands the importance of protecting the health of our animals, plants and crops,” said Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens.

“This plant and animal health centre will continue providing farmers with support for keeping their farms healthy, safeguarding their livelihoods and strengthening food security across B.C.”

Up to $496 million has been approved by the province to buy the land, facility and new equipment.

Construction is set to start in 2027, with enhanced services available to B.C. producers by 2032.