New Brunswick Farmers Hit Hard by Unprecedented Drought and Heat

Fredericton, NB – Farmers across New Brunswick are dealing with one of the worst droughts in decades, as prolonged heat and minimal rainfall severely affect agricultural operations. The historic dry spell is taking a lasting toll on crops, feed supplies, pastures, orchards, and vegetable fields while also depleting critical water sources.


These unprecedented conditions have left many farmers deeply concerned as they brace for significant losses. With the fall harvest approaching, farmers are worried that we are too late in the season to recover any significant growth.


“This year’s weather has been interesting, with a slow, cool spring followed by heat. We had enough moisture for a good first cut, but the second cut shriveled and burnt. Extreme heat caused some fires, which local fire departments controlled. I had to bring catle home two months early due to dry pastures and water shortages, and several neighbors are hauling water and hay for their animals—a first in our area. Rainfall was sporadic, and we received only about 25% of our usual rainfall, which varied across the province.” Says Ules Baxter, owner of WindGap Farms.

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