Farming for new entrants

A roadmap to help you start, fund, operate and manage your farm business.

Overview

New Brunswick has a rich history in farming with countless opportunities waiting for new entrants. From the lush lands to the thriving food processing industry, farming is not just a livelihood here—it's a vital part of our economy, society, and culture.

Farmers here have access to prime land at affordable prices, abundant water resources, and a supportive environment for agricultural ventures. The provincial government deeply values farmers and recognizes the importance of welcoming new faces into the agriculture industry. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just starting out, there's a place for you in our vibrant farming community.

This page serves as a guide, providing resources and information to help make your farming journey a success.  While a lot of the information here covers permits, licenses, and other regulations, don't let that overwhelm you. Depending on your situation, you might not need all of them.

Plan for success

First steps

Information to help you plan, set goals and monitor progress towards a successful farming business.

Farming essentials

Learn more about the essentials of farming such as markets, lands, labour, equipment and training.

Choose your commodity

Choose from a variety of 30 commodities currently being produced in New Brunswick.

Start and manage your farm

Register your farm as a business

Learn how to register your farm as a business at the provincial and federal level.

Licences and permits

Find the various licences and permits you might need for your agri-food business.

Acts, regulations and policies

Browse through a list of acts, regulations and policies that may affect you as an agricultural producer in New Brunswick.

Additional information

Get more useful information such as heat units, crop guides, the Environmental Farm plan, on-farm composting, burning permits and more.

Information and resources

Statistical commodity review

See a statistical review of various commodities in New Brunswick for the year 2023 and 2024.

Office locations

See where to find the nearest agriculture office in New Brunswick.

Commodity groups and associations

A list of all important industry contact information to help you get your farm up and running.

Publications and online resources

A compilation of relevant publications and online resources to support your farming goals.

Foreign worker resources

Learn more about how to hire a foreign worker and what steps are involved.

Funding Resources

See what funding options and supports are available to help you and your farm flourish.

Need help?

The Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries is staffed by professionals interested in helping you achieve your goal of becoming a farmer.

 

   1-888-622-4742 (toll-free) or 506-453-2666
   [email protected]
   Monday-Friday, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.