The New Brunswick government has introduced a new strategy to build a sustainable agriculture sector.
Agriculture Minister Pat Finnigan and Environment Minister Gilles LePage announced the new plan Friday.
“This strategy is a testament to the government’s commitment to our farmers, workers and communities, now and in the future,” Finnigan said in a statement.
The strategy aims to reduce emissions, enhance resilience and prepare farmers for challenges associated with climate change.
That includes severe weather, droughts and evolving threats from pests.
Areas of focus will include emissions-reduction tracking, building resilience and establishing a digital information hub where producers can access information on agricultural climate programs and services.
“Climate change presents challenges for New Brunswick’s agricultural sector, from extreme weather to changing growing conditions,” LePage said.
The minister added that helping producers reduce emissions and adapt to the challenges, natural resources can be protected.
The agriculture sector accounts for about four per cent of New Brunswick’s greenhouse gas emissions.
According to information released by the government, New Brunswick’s agriculture and agri-food industry contributed $1.2 billion to the gross domestic product in 2024 and supports more than 13,300 full-time equivalent jobs.
Economic modelling done by Stiletto Consulting showed climate-related disruptions were responsible for $170 million in lost revenue between 2011 and 2023.
A release from the provincial government said without action, economic losses could exceed $300 million by 2050.
The Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries is working with the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick and the National Farmers Union to ensure the strategy meets the needs of farming communities.
Alliance president Danielle Connell said the strategy aligns with an industry strategy developed by the organization.
“New Brunswick farmers are already adapting to a changing climate,” Connell said.
“This partnership gives them the tools and support they need to keep producing the food our province depends on.”
NFU in New Brunswick president Alexis Légerè said the organization has been at the forefront of climate issues for more than 50 years.
“Our organization strongly advocates for diversified production, sustainable soil health practices, renewable energy, zero-emission vehicles and collaborative models for equipment- and knowledge-sharing,” he said.
“Viewing farms as unique and complex ecosystems, the National Farmers Union in New Brunswick asserts that reducing agricultural inputs is essential to lowering greenhouse gas emissions while increasing net farm income.”
