Farms grow fresh local products, and they grow communities.
From Yarmouth to Ingonish, and from HRM to Amherst- farms are present in every corner of Nova Scotia. Whether you live in a bustling town or a quiet coastal village, their impact can be felt across the province. Some families have been farming for more than 10 generations, while others are just beginning their agricultural journey. Regardless of how long they’ve been farming, they all share a strong connection to their land and to their communities. Farms play an essential role in shaping the communities we live in.
The agriculture sector is vital to Nova Scotia’s prosperity – supporting access to healthy local food, investing in the rural economy, and providing career opportunities for young and new Nova Scotians. Agriculture and agri-food contribute $690.7 million every year to growing our provincial economy, but what does that look like on the ground? It means jobs for thousands of Nova Scotians, fresh local products from farms to families, and thriving communities. According to Statistics Canada, 6,100 people are employed in primary agriculture, and 8,817 people are employed in food manufacturing. This only represents direct employment- the industry supports a much larger economic spinoff. Farmers, like everyone else, are faced with challenges like increased input costs and the effects of climate change. It’s more important than ever to support a stable, resilient food system that includes local agriculture.
Healthy food means healthy people.
Not only do farms provide jobs and strengthen rural economies- they also support our provincial food systems and food supply . Nova Scotia’s farmers provide products that are available year-round, in every corner of the store. By supporting them, we can help ensure that fresh, locally grown products are always available.
Every purchase of locally grown product is a choice for a stronger, healthier Nova Scotia. This goes beyond our household purchases, with opportunity for farmers, the public and government to work together, providing nutritious local food in our province’s institutions like schools and hospitals. The Coalition for Healthy School Food says that 50% of the energy consumed by kids 4-18 comes from highly processed foods. Kids who have access to healthy food perform better in school and life.
The foundation of our food system.
Land that is suitable for agriculture is a vital resource for food production. We are fortunate to have rich soil and climate that supports farming, and even more fortunate to have farmers dedicated to stewardship. Farmers invest in the health of their soil, water and biodiversity to ensure that Nova Scotia’s farmers can keep growing a wide range of products for generations to come.
Our farmland in Nova Scotia has been farmed, protected and improved for generations. Almost 30% of the province’s land is classified as suitable for agricultural use. Without this land, and the people who cultivate it- the way we feed ourselves may look very different. Our food is essential and our farmland is the foundation of our food production in Nova Scotia.
The future of farming; food for thought.
We are all deeply connected to agriculture even if we don’t realize it. When we support our local farms, we’re investing in the health of our communities, the strength of our economy, and the future of Nova Scotia. It isn’t just about celebrating agriculture—it’s about recognizing the future we all share.
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