2013
Department of Natural Resources

Recognized by colleagues, farmers and other stakeholders for his knowledge, integrity and prompt professional service, Brian Brazil has been a true leader in the province’s agrifoods sector for the past 35 years. His work in the Lands Resources Stewardship Division of the Department of Natural Resources is helping to improve farm operations and grow Newfoundland and Labrador’s agrifoods sector.

Brian readily shares his knowledge of soil profiles, elevations and drainage to help improve outcomes for farmers. As an engineering technician, he helps farmers to optimize drainage of forage fields to encourage proper root development of crops, maximize production and enable them to make the most of our short growing season. He has contributed to industry best practices by using proven methods to improve access to previously unsuitable land, and proper placement and design of tile drainage techniques to increase the land’s productivity. Because of his work, farmers are using fields today that they previously could not.

Over the years, Brian has gained a reputation as one the province’s foremost drainage specialists but his significant contributions to the province’s agrifoods sector began very early in his career. He was involved in the establishment of approximately 130 blueberry management units throughout the province. He later completed research work on cranberry, strawberry, partridgeberry and sea buckthorn plots, and contributed to four cranberry pilot projects.

Described as one of the most respected people in the agriculture industry, Brian regularly collaborates with other government departments and agencies, municipalities and stakeholders sharing his expertise and helping guide decisions related to the agrifoods sector.

In short, Brian’s work helps to make farms sustainable and grow the industry – and he always does it with a smile.

Brian is hailed by farmers for his willingness and ability to transfer his knowledge and expertise to those who need it most, and by his co-workers for his positive outlook, tireless dedication and eagerness to help.