The Government of Nova Scotia remains committed to supporting local food production.
The province is investing an additional $7,9 million to help local farmers grow more crops and allow for more locally produced food into schools, hospitals, and other facilities.
“Buying local starts with growing local. Thats the foundation-and we need it to be strong” stated Agriculture Minister Greg Morrow. “This new investment will help farmers grow more and agri-businesses make more.”
A new $5-million Season Extension Program will help support fruit and vegetable growers who invest in innovative labour saving technologies to extend their growing season, adapt to a changing climate, and open new market opportunities. This program will build on the success of recent pilot programs like the Long Cane Raspberry Pilot.
A new $2-milliom Local Food Advancement Program will help local producers and agri-businesses invest in equipment and technology to increase production. The government is also dedicating $900,000 to help get more locally grown and produced food into large scale kitchens through new pilots, like the one announced last week with continuing care provider Northwood.
President of Nova Scotia’s’ Federation of Agriculture Allan Melvin welcomed the announcement calling it an investment in our food security and our rural economies.
The initiatives support the government’s goal to have 20 per cent of all food purchased in Nova Scotia be locally grown by 2030.
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