Get more useful information such as heat units, crop guides, the Environmental Farm plan, on-farm composting, burning permits and more.
Charts have been developed over the years that give a general idea of available heat units in different parts of the province. For example, only certain parts of the province are warm enough to grow corn and soybeans. This chart is a guide to help determine what can be grown where. It is available at any local Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries office or visit:
2018 Corn guide for the Maritimes.
Environment Canada has precipitation data for about 20 regions in New Brunswick. Visit the following link and choose the region of your choice:
This provides useful information on forages, cereal crops and more that can be grown in New Brunswick with expected yields and certain soil requirements. These guides are also available through the local Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries office.
The Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) is a tool within the agricultural community that promotes environmentally responsible and economically viable farming by encouraging the adoption of beneficial management practices. It is a voluntary, confidential and pro-active tool that can help agricultural producers to assess the environmental strengths and potential environmental risks related to their farm operations. In New Brunswick, the EFP is delivered by the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick.
For more information on the Environmental Farm Plan, please contact the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick at 506-452-8101 or visit the environment section at:
Agro-environmental clubs stimulate environmental leadership, innovation and sharing of knowledge and experience for the advancement of a sustainable agricultural industry in New Brunswick. The New Brunswick Soil and Crop Improvement Association (NBSCIA) administers the agro-environmental clubs in the following regions: Northeast (Bathurst and Miramichi), Moncton/Chignecto (Sackville), Kings County, Central (Fredericton), Carleton County, and North-West. For more information, contact the NBSCIA by telephone at 506-454- 1736 or by email at [email protected]
An effective way of preserving the nutrients contained in manure, spoiled hay, silage or straw, is by composting it. Properly composted organic materials generated on the farm can be a tremendous source of fertilizer and, if there is surplus, a source of revenue. Much has been written on this subject and the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries has an informational bulletin on this topic that we encourage you to review. It can be found under the department’s publication site. (see Other Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries services and publications) On-farm composting does not require a permit if used on the farm, but permits are required if compost is sold
There are no restrictions to clearing farmland in New Brunswick. However, if clearing near a water source, a stream or wetland, you must consult with Department of Environment and Local Government as there are setbacks and other conditions required. (See Watercourse and Wetland Alteration Regulation)
Permits are required by the Department of Environment and Local Government to install a culvert or bridge over a stream. It is also considered a best management practice to prevent access to streams by livestock. There are some programs designed to help fund fencing to keep livestock from streams. Contact your local Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries representative for details.
The Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries has two programs to help with losses from wildlife. The first is mitigation. The Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries administers programs that can provide partial funding for a large range of preventive measures from fencing to sheep dogs. Use of the mitigation program is required to qualify for compensation (see below).
The second is a form of compensation administered by the Agricultural Insurance Commission. If you are planning to invest in a commodity that has potential for crop damage or loss of livestock due to wildlife, we suggest you first contact your local Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries representative or the commodity specialist for details.
Traditionally, blueberry operators burn old growth. Other producers burn brush when clearing land. In New Brunswick, there are specific periods when burning may be done and others when it is strictly prohibited.
Following is a summary of the rules about burning in New Brunswick. Fire season usually runs from the third Monday in April until the end of October.
To burn small amounts of brush and woody material (Category1) fires, you must call the Department of Energy and Resource Development, 1-866-458-8080 (toll-free) or 506-444-5445 (in the Fredericton area). Information will be updated daily during the fire season. You must have the landowner’s permission before igniting a fire on private land. There will be three levels of permission based on the weather and fire conditions in your area: (1) burn, (2) burning permitted between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. and (3) no burning allowed.
Residents and non-residents must acquire a burning permit during the fire season.
Cities and towns have their own bylaws. Some villages also have bylaws that restrict burning. It is your responsibility to find out if your village has its own bylaw. If it does not, your area is governed by the provincial guideline.
Certain material – such as pressure treated wood – must not be burned.
NOTE: If burning without permission results in damage to Crown land or other properties, you may be liable.
For more information about burning, permits required and your responsibilities, visit:
Before spending money on road signs for the farm, consult with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to determine if you are eligible to place road signage. There are certain requirements as to size and location that must be met. Provincial signage “tabs” can also be installed along highways for agri-tourism operations, wineries and farm markets.
The following link may be helpful to determine eligibility and obtain contact information.