Natural Resources
January 30, 2014

Resource Encouraging Innovation in Agriculture and Agrifoods

Natural Resources Minister Supports Agriculture and Agrifoods Industry Diversification

The Provincial Government expressed its support of the province’s agriculture and agrifoods industry during the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture’s annual general meeting being held this week in Port Blandford. The theme of this year’s event is Linking Innovation, Education, and Industry.

“This was an excellent opportunity for farmers, government representatives, guest presenters, and federation representatives to discuss how to grow this innovative industry. The Newfoundland and Labrador agriculture and agrifoods industry has tremendous potential and currently employs about 6,500 men and women throughout the province. The Provincial Government is working to secure a prosperous future for this industry through a variety of programs and services.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency

The local agriculture and agrifoods industry is continually developing and diversifying with annual revenues totalling upwards of $130 million. The value of production from the agriculture and agrifoods industry, including secondary processing, is approximately $500 million per year.

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government, recognizing innovation as a key component for industry growth, offers famers and producers access to several programs designed to encourage innovative thinking.
• Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative, is helping industry become more innovative and cost competitive. From 2013 to present day, more than $6 million in provincial and federal funds has been allocated for more than 140 projects in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• The Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program funds activities to improve industry competitiveness, promote growth and commercialization. In the last year, 117 projects were approved and $2.25 million committed through this program.
• The Agriculture and Agrifoods Development Fund helps farmers develop larger acreages of land to increase forage production. The Provincial Government approved three projects and committed $2.2 million in 2013-14 through this program.
• Under the Agricultural Research Initiative, $2.5 million in provincial funding was allocated for 20 research and development projects.

- 30 -

Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca

2014 01 30                                        12:05 p.m.