Celebrating the importance of agriculture

October is Agriculture Awareness Month across Canada and the minister responsible for agriculture in this province is encouraging the general public to reflect on the important contribution that agriculture makes to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Rick Woodford said Agriculture Awareness Month is a time to highlight how valuable our agriculture sector is and the future opportunities that still exist in the industry. "Our industry is diversifying and experiencing continued growth. It is becoming more innovative with important advances being made through research and development initiatives in areas such as corn production, cranberries, medicinal herbs and Seabuckthorn," said the minister.

The minister also commended everyone involved in the agriculture industry for their hard work and commitment to producing safe and high quality products. He added: "I encourage everyone to buy local agricultural products at the grocery store. Supporting our local farming operations helps ensure a stronger agriculture industry and prosperity for communities who depend on the industry."

An exciting event that is taking place in the Atlantic region again this year in celebration of Agriculture Awareness Month is Open Farm Day, which will be held on October 5. Minister Woodford encourages the public to participate in Open Farm Day, which will see 22 farms in this province open their doors to the public and allow them to experience Newfoundland and Labrador agriculture first hand. Anyone wanting more information on Open Farm Day can call (709) 637-2086 or visit the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods� web site at www.gov.nl.ca//www.gov.nl.ca/agric/

The agriculture industry in Newfoundland and Labrador employs over 4,000 people and is valued at over $500 million to the provincial economy.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2003 10 02                                         1:05 p.m.