Although warmer temperatures, longer growing seasons and elevated CO2 concentrations are generally expected to benefit agriculture in Canada, factors such as reduced soil moisture, increased frequency of extreme climate events, soil degradation and pests have the potential to counteract, and potentially exceed, these benefits. Some regions could experience net gains, while others may see net losses. Regional variations will result from several factors, including the nature of climate change, the characteristics of the farming system/organization, and the response of different groups.

Appropriate adaptations have the potential to greatly reduce the overall vulnerability of agriculture to climate change. These adaptations will require the participation of several different groups, including individual producers, government organizations, the agri-food industry and research institutions. Historically, the agricultural sector has proven itself to be highly adaptive to environmental and social changes, with a strong capacity to adapt in a responsive manner. However, to most effectively reduce vulnerability, anticipatory adaptation is necessary. For example, efforts to increase adaptive capacity through diversification and the development of new technologies represent valuable types of proactive adaptation. Anticipatory adaptation is also important with respect to major capital investments by producers and the agri-food industry.