The Honourable Pleaman Forsey, Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands, today provided an update on support for Newfoundland and Labrador’s farming and agrifoods sector.
The Provincial Government’s platform commitment to farming, agrifoods, and food sustainability includes removing barriers for new farmers, increasing food production and indoor growing, and lengthening the growing season.
This work will be guided by a 10-Year Agriculture Strategy focused on strengthening local food production and connecting producers with local markets.
Today, Minister Forsey launched a public engagement and consultation process to inform the 10-year Agriculture Strategy. The Provincial Government is seeking feedback from farmers, processors, retailers, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, interested parties, educational institutions, industry experts, community organizations, and the public.
Participants are encouraged to comment on issues relevant to the agricultural sector, including, but not limited to:
- Rural and regional economic opportunities.
- Access to Crown land for agriculture.
- Support for new entrants to farming.
- Growth in food processing.
- Reducing barriers for new and current farmers.
- Expanding local food production.
To participate, visit engageNL.ca or contact the Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands at agstrategy@gov.nl.ca. The online consultation will be open until January 29, 2027.
Minister Forsey made today’s announcement from the newly established Provincial Agriculture Equipment Leasing Program site near the Provincial Agriculture Building in St. John’s.
The new farm equipment bank for eastern Newfoundland, announced in Budget 2026, increases access to $1 million worth of government-owned equipment to help reduce operating costs for new and established farmers.
This initiative supports the Provincial Government’s commitment to enhance the agricultural sector and increase food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador. Farmers can access equipment here. Other banks are located in Wooddale, Pynn’s Brook, and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
The Provincial Government is acting on its platform commitment to work with farmers, food producers and local retailers to grow the province’s farming and agrifoods industry to put more local, affordable food on shelves, and to launch a 10-year agriculture strategy, developed with input from farmers, retailers and experts, to strengthen local food production and connect producers with local markets.
Quotes
“We are committed to increasing food security and self-sufficiency and establishing a long-term vision for the agriculture sector. With input from farmers and producers, industry experts, and the people of the province, we will develop a solid plan to help support sustainable growth and produce more food here at home. I encourage everyone in the province to have their say on this fundamental strategy.”
Honourable Pleaman Forsey
Forestry, Agriculture and Lands
“The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture welcomes the launch of the consultation process for the 10-Year Agriculture Strategy. At a time of continued uncertainty, it is essential that we work together to address the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. As the province continues its efforts to strengthen food security and sustainability, we must remain open to new ideas, innovative approaches, and different ways of doing things to increase agricultural production, improve profitability, and build a stronger, more self-sufficient food system. Today marks an important step forward for agriculture.”
Wayne Simmons
President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture
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