Recreational Tourism Expanding in Edmundston

News release

August 30, 2023 · Edmundston, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Communities flourish when local businesses and organizations have the infrastructure and resources to create engaging, memorable experiences for visitors and residents alike. The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is investing to help Edmundston deliver world-class recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Today, René Arseneault, MP for Madawaska-Restigouche, announced a non-repayable contribution of $317,812 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) to la Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska Ltée. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The Honourable Réjean Savoie, Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation, also announced a contribution of $317,812 on behalf of the Province of New Brunswick.

This contribution will help la Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska develop mountain biking trails and a skills park at Mont Farlagne, as well as explore and analyse options for  improvements to the welcome centre and ski lifts.  These enhancements will help extend Mont Farlagne’s tourism season, bringing more visitors and an economic boost to the region.  

Atlantic Canada has the wind in its sails.  In March, the Public Policy Forum published a report that confirms the region is poised for exponential growth. Today’s announcement highlights the Government of Canada’s commitment to build on that momentum by strengthing our communities, creating new opportunities, and setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.

Quotes

“Tourism is vital to so many of our communities – attracting visitors, creating jobs, and driving local business. I am pleased that the Government of Canada, through ACOA, is helping the Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska strengthen Edmundston’s tourism profile, so more people can discover what this region has to offer.” 

The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Government of Canada recognizes the tremendous value of the tourism industry in Atlantic Canada.  This project represents a unique opportunity to expand access to Mont Farlagne all year-long. Residents and tourists alike will enjoy exploring our beautiful part of the country, making Madawaska-Restigouche a choice destination for families and visitors.”

René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska—Restigouche

 “Our government is pleased to be a funding partner in the improvements to the biking trails at Mont Farlagne. The trails offer a unique tourism experience that will attract a wide range of visitors to the region and will create new economic activity.”

The Honourable Réjean Savoie, Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation

“For the cooperative and for the volunteers who contribute to the Républik Nature project, it’s good to know that our government partners are continuing to support us in our vision of positioning our region as a key Atlantic hub for four-season outdoor recreation and tourism.”

Cyrille Simard, President of the Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska

Quick facts

  • La Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska, also known as Republik Nature, is responsible for managing the Mont Farlagne Outdoor Centre as well as the mountain bike trail system Sentiers Madawaska Trails.

  • The funding announced today is provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), which supports strategic projects that build the economies of Atlantic Canada's communities.

Associated links

Contacts

Hugo Alvarez
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
Hugo.Alvarez@ised-isde.gc.ca

Samantha Michaud
Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
samantha.michaud@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn
Communications
Regional Development Corporation
mary-anne.hurley-corbyn@gnb.ca

Cyrille Simard
President
Coopérative de récréotourisme du Madawaska Ltée
506-739-3185

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