Agriculture Regions in Quebec

Quebec is home to the second-largest population of any Canadian province and has the largest land area, making it a significant contributor to Canadian agriculture. The province hosts the fifth largest number of farms in the country, representing about 10% of Canadian farms. Quebec’s agriculture sector in the largest producer of milk and dairy products in Canada and the world leader in Maple Syrup.

Where is farming in Quebec?

The heart of Quebec’s agricultural activity lies in the south of the province, extending west from the border of Ontario along the U.S. border to the eastern townships, north up the St. Lawrence River Valley and extending further east into the Gaspe peninsula. Fertile agriculture land follows the Saguenay River further west. Some farms also border Ontario at the western edge of the province in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Northern Quebec consists of thousands of kilometres of tundra, boreal forest, mountains, rivers and lakes – making it unsuitable for agriculture.

What are the primary field crops grown in Quebec?

Grains and Oilseeds: Quebec’s agricultural production is focused on field crops such as corn and soybeans, with corn being the most extensively cultivated grain crop. Soybeans also hold a significant portion of agricultural land in the province. Quebec is one of the major producers of corn and soybeans in Canada.

Wheat: Quebec is a notable producer of wheat, particularly hard red spring wheat, which is used in various food products. Other cereals like oats and barley are also cultivated across the province.

Specialty Crops: Quebec’s diverse agricultural sector includes specialty crops such as canola, flax, beans, and lentils, which contribute to the province’s agricultural diversity and economic strength. Forage production including hay, clover, and alfalfa is also prevalent.

Maple Syrup: Quebec is Canada and the world’s largest producer of maple syrup producing 95.8 million kilograms in 2022 from 12 major maple-producing regions.

Horticulture in Quebec

Vegetables: Quebec boasts a thriving vegetable industry, with a variety of crops including tomatoes, potatoes, onions, carrots, and sweet corn being cultivated throughout the province. Both field production and greenhouse cultivation contribute significantly to Quebec’s vegetable output.

Fruits: The province is renowned for its fruit production, particularly apples, strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries. Orchards are widespread, especially in regions such as Montérégie and the Eastern Townships.

Greenhouse Production: Quebec’s greenhouse industry is a key player in the province’s agricultural economy, producing a wide range of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs year-round.

What Types of Livestock Farming are there in Quebec?

Dairy: Quebec is a major player in Canada’s dairy industry, boasting 47% of dairy farms in Canada and producing 36% of the country’s milk and dairy products.

Hogs: Quebec has a substantial hog farming industry, with numerous farms spread across the province. It ranks among the top provinces in Canada for hog production.

Poultry and Eggs: Quebec has a thriving poultry sector, with chicken and turkey being the primary products. Egg production is also a significant component of Quebec’s agricultural output.

Beef and Veal: Quebec’s beef and veal industry is significant, with ranches and feedlots spread throughout the province.

Sheep and Goats: Quebec has a growing sheep and goat industry, with producers specializing in both meat and wool production.

Common Agricultural Jobs in Quebec:

• Crop Technician
• Livestock Supervisor
• Agricultural Equipment Operator
• Irrigation Specialist
• Dairy Herdsman/Herder
• Greenhouse Technician
• Poultry Farm Attendant
• Agricultural Mechanic
• Agronomist
• Farm Worker

Quebec’s agriculture sector provides employment opportunities for close to 70,000 workers engaged in various farming activities, making it a great destination for those seeking employment in the agricultural field.