The government is investing an additional $7.9 million to help local farmers grow more food and get it into more of the province’s largest kitchens.
“Buying local starts with growing local. That’s the foundation – and we need it to be strong,” said Agriculture Minister Greg Morrow. “This new investment will help farmers grow more and agri-businesses make more, and it paves the way for local products in our schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities.”
The new $5-million Season Extension Enhancement Program will help support fruit and vegetable growers who invest in innovative and labour-saving technologies to extend their growing season, adapt to a changing climate and open new market opportunities. The program will build on the success of recent pilot programs like the Long Cane Raspberry Pilot, conducted in co-operation with commercial growers, Perennia Food and Agriculture and Horticulture Nova Scotia.
A new $2-million Local Food Advancement Program will help local producers and agri-businesses invest in equipment and technology to increase production either by expanding their current operations or by creating new value-add products.
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.