Fred McCardle says the province needs better leadership.Fred McCardle says the province needs better leadership. (CBC)

A 59-year-old farmer from Middleton officially kicked off his bid for leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party Thursday.

Fred McCardle was elected for the Conservatives in 2003 and served one term.

McCardle said his main issues will be leadership and good government, two things he said P.E.I. is now missing. He is also looking to focus a lot of attention on agriculture and the environment.

"We face some tough times ahead. You know the pillars of our economy are crumbling...and some serious leadership is going to have to take place to survive here," he said.

The leadership convention is scheduled for Sept. 18.