If you live in New Brunswick, you know how unpredictable the weather gets. On a 19 degree Friday afternoon in November, provincial officials gathered at Coburn Farms in Keswick Ridge to address a pressing reality for local agriculture. Remarking on the unseasonably high temperatures, Agriculture Minister Pat Finnigan noted the changing climate. He used the occasion to announce the New Brunswick Agriculture Growth Action Plan and the Agriculture Climate Change Strategy. According to a recent report by CBC News, these initiatives strengthen the agriculture sector, grow the economy, and build a resilient future for producers across the province.

Shifting to Value Added Production

The business side of the plan focuses on optimizing existing farmland and expanding processing capacities. Finnigan highlighted Coburn Farms as a prime example of moving toward value added products. Sixth generation farmer David Coburn explained that his orchard shrank from 100 acres to just 10 acres after the apple market collapsed in the 1990s. Today, his farm processes 98 percent of its apples into cider and apple syrup.

“I mean, we need more value added production. I’m a firm believer in that,” Coburn said.

Adapting to a Changing Climate

Climate change creates severe uncertainty for farmers. Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage pointed out that extreme weather events, prolonged droughts, excessive rainfall, and heat waves directly affect crop yields and farm profitability. Coburn experienced this firsthand. Last summer’s drought resulted in his smallest apple crop in 20 years. This year, balanced rain brought one of his biggest crops in 25 years.

The new strategy reduces greenhouse gas emissions from farms. While agriculture accounts for only four percent of provincial emissions, the government sees an opportunity for practical solutions. The plan targets an emissions reduction of 40 kilotonnes by 2030 and 60 kilotonnes by 2050. Projects include improved nutrient management, energy efficient equipment, and carbon sequestration.

Funding the Future of Farming

Provincial funding for the plan starts with $200,000 in the 2025 to 2026 fiscal year. This investment grows to $2.2 million in 2026 to 2027, supplemented by federal funding. Finnigan clarified that this money does not replace existing government programs. It serves as a strategic investment in key projects to advance farmland development and market growth.

“I think most progressive farmers are in it,” Finnigan said, adding that farms must join the strategy to secure their future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two new agricultural plans in New Brunswick?

The province announced the New Brunswick Agriculture Growth Action Plan and the Agriculture Climate Change Strategy.

How much funding is the province providing?

The province invests $200,000 in 2025 to 2026 and $2.2 million in 2026 to 2027, alongside federal funding.

What are the emissions reduction targets for New Brunswick farms?

The strategy reduces agricultural emissions by 40 kilotonnes by 2030 and 60 kilotonnes by 2050.

What is value added production?

Value added production involves turning raw agricultural goods into finished products, like processing apples into cider or syrup, to increase profitability.