Open Farm Day – Bringing people together through agriculture

Press Release

Fredericton, NB

Open Farm Day – Bringing people together through agriculture

For Immediate Release

September 20^th, Fredericton – Some 10,000 visitors took part in this weekend’s Open Farm Day events showcasing agricultural operations in New Brunswick.

A total of 33 New Brunswick farms opened their gates to the public this past weekend to showcase their agricultural operations.

“The steady turnout again this year is a true reflection of the importance of local agriculture and support for the farming community. The weather cooperated and visitors got a true appreciation for the dedication our farmers families put into feeding our communities and the world,” said Mike Bouma, president of the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick.

From farmers in the produce sector, livestock, vineyards, apiaries, sugarbushes, and nurseries, all pulled together to unite the province in promoting what New Brunswick food is all about.

“Open Farm Day 2017 was a real success thanks to the farmers and families who gave their neighbours a behind-the-scenes look at the work they do every day,” said Andrew Harvey, New Brunswick’s new Minister of Agriculture, Mines and Rural Affairs who participated in Open Farm Day activities at several locations. “Participants were delighted to meet with farmers, form new relationships with their neighbours and sample some of New Brunswick’s finest local products. I know they are already looking forward to Open Farm Day 2018.”

Several farms took part in this year’s event for the first time, a sign of growing interest in promoting and advocating local food production and education.

Corn mazes, cider-making, milking cows, demonstrations, pony rides and wagon rides were just a few of the activities being offered by various farms.

The event was organized by the Agricultural Alliance of NB and made possible with the support of the Provincial and Federal government and by Farm Credit Canada.

For more information, please contact:

Agricultural Alliance 506-452-8101

Agriculture, Mines and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Harvey speaks with Joas van Oord and Tobique-Mactaquac member of Parliament T.J. Harvey during a visit to Double Oord Farm in Springfield, N.B. during Open Farm Day. Double Oord was one of several locations the new minister of agriculture visited during the Sunday Sept. 17 Open Farm Day events.

Agriculture, Mines and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Harvey milks “Moonica” the cow as Amelia van Oord, 4, looks on during Open Farm Day in New Brunswick. Double Oord farm in Springfield, N.B. was one of several locations the new minister visited during Open Farm Day events Sept. 17.