Budworm City Airport

The airport was a purpose-built, single-use facility created exclusively for the New Brunswick spruce budworm aerial spray program. Its closure was a direct result of the termination of this massive government and industry-led program. The program was wound down due to a combination of factors, including prohibitive costs, changing forest management strategies, and significant environmental concerns regarding the widespread, long-term use of chemical insecticides.

The site is completely abandoned and is being reclaimed by the surrounding forest. Satellite imagery clearly shows the linear clearing of the former runway, but it is now heavily overgrown with dense shrubs and young trees. No buildings, hangars, or any other infrastructure remain on the site. It is inaccessible by road and serves no current aeronautical, industrial, or agricultural purpose.

Budworm City Airport was a critical forward operating base for Forest Protection Limited (FPL), the Crown corporation tasked with managing the spray program against the spruce budworm, a devastating forest pest. It was one of several such temporary airfields, known colloquially as 'Budworm Cities,' that served as self-contained operational hubs during the intense spring spraying season. Operations primarily involved supporting a large fleet of spray aircraft, which historically included converted WWII Grumman TBM Avenger bombers and later, agricultural aircraft like the Cessna Ag-series and PZL M-18 Dromader. The airport handled the mixing and loading of insecticides, aircraft maintenance, and provided rudimentary accommodations for pilots and ground crews. Its significance lies in its central role in one of the world's largest and longest-running aerial pest control operations, which was vital to protecting New Brunswick's forestry-based economy for several decades.

There are zero plans or prospects for reopening the airport. The facility was built for a specific purpose that no longer exists. The runway is in a state of complete disrepair and would require total reconstruction. Furthermore, there is no economic or logistical need for an airfield at this remote location, especially with established public airports, such as Charlo Airport (CYCL), serving the region.