Natural Resources
September 19, 2008

Six farms in Newfoundland and Labrador will open their doors to the public as part of Open Farm Day on September 21.

Participating farms are located in Steady Brook, Felix Cove on the Port au Port Peninsula, Robinsons and Little Rapids in western Newfoundland; Lethbridge in eastern Newfoundland, and in St. John�s. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample some of the vegetables that grow in the province; pet some of the animals; and, see first-hand what farm living is all about.

"As an industry, our biggest marketing challenge is increasing consumer awareness and demand for locally-produced agricultural products," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources and the Minister responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. "That is why my department has placed a significant emphasis on agriculture awareness. Open Farm Day was created to help raise awareness of the high-quality produce available in this province. The objective is to increase the sale of our agriculture products by encouraging consumers to request local produce when they shop at local grocery stores."

The agriculture and agrifoods industry is a significant contributor to the Newfoundland and Labrador economy, with annual sales valued at $500 million. The industry is growing and diversifying, providing meaningful jobs in rural communities across the province. The industry provides direct and indirect employment for 6,200 people, mainly in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.