Drawing on more than 25 years of research, teaching, and agricultural consulting—along with her own farming background—Marie-Josée brings extensive knowledge to support Island producers.
Her work has spanned the Atlantic region, including contributing to the landmark 2004 Atlantic Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) fourth edition, a pioneering regional collaboration that standardized agri-environmental planning tools across Atlantic Canada.
Since joining the Department in 2024, Marie-Josée serves as the bridge between soil science and the everyday realities of farming. She works with producers to navigate organic transitions, develop natural nutrient management plans using compost and manure, and explore perennial cropping systems. She also helps farmers understand their soils more deeply so they can make choices that strengthen both their yields and the environment over the long term.
Through her work across Atlantic Canada, she's seen firsthand how much fields can differ, even on the same farm. What works in one area may not in another, and that's where her expertise makes a difference.
Marie-Josée is especially focused on supporting more farmers in transitioning to organic production and in developing perennial crop systems that build soil health year after year. She is passionate about blending traditional farming knowledge with modern soil science to create sustainable approaches tailored to Island conditions.
"Healthy soil practices don't sacrifice productivity—they enhance it. When farmers invest in long-term soil building through smart rotations and cover crops, they create more resilient systems and stronger yields for decades to come."
