Sun-Ripened Fruits Basking under the Sunlight
In the heart of Quebec, Pierre-Yves Éthier's farm, Au pays des petits fruits, and the Fromagerie du Vieux Saint-Joseph are weathering the challenges posed by drought and extreme heat.
Customers Flock to the Farm Stands
Despite the challenging conditions, customers are still buying small fruits and vegetables at Éthier's farm stand. The blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are large and ripe, offering a sweet taste of summer.
Unusual Practices at the Farm
Éthier's unique approach to farming includes allowing his sheep to eat apples in addition to hay made of cut and dried vegetables. This practice gives the farm's artisanal cheeses a distinctive taste. The apples at Domaine Lafrance, located in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, are also abundant, with three varieties already ready, including Jaune Transparente.
Struggles and Adaptations
The lack of rain and heatwaves are stressing the plants on both farms. To cope, farmers are implementing various strategies. Éthier's farm has an irrigation system, but it's a drip system to save water. Farmers are also choosing drought-resistant crops and diversifying their crops to reduce dependence on any single variety.
Adopting automation in farming practices and local and regional distribution strategies are other adaptations being made to maintain market share. Ion Goncear, co-owner of Fromagerie du Vieux Saint-Joseph, mentions they have two apple varieties, Melba and Vista Bella.
A Hope for Rain
Despite the dry weather, both farms are managing. However, Éthier is hoping for a day of heavy rain. The dry weather and heat are fine at Domaine Lafrance, but they would welcome some rain in the coming weeks.
Supporting Local Farmers
As fruit and apple farmers in Quebec face significant challenges due to extreme heat and drought, it's crucial to support local farmers. By buying their produce and visiting their farms, we can help them navigate these difficult times.
[1] Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association [2] Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada [3] Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs [4] Canadian Drought Monitor
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