Minister Delivers On Promise for Soil Program

The province is investing $400,000 to help farmers be more productive.

Agriculture Minister John MacDonell announced the enhanced funding for the Soil Amendment Program today, Nov. 25, at a meeting of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture.

"We've made good on our promise to remove cost barriers and help farmers keep soils healthy and productive," said Mr. MacDonell. "We're keeping our commitment to enhance a sustainable agriculture industry that creates good jobs and grow the economy."

Soil amendments, materials such as lime and wood ash added to soil to make it more fertile, help plant growth by improving soil volume, moisture retention and pH balance. Maintaining a healthy soil pH is important to agricultural productivity.

"Keeping lands productive is important, but it can be cost-prohibitive for farmers to transport substances like lime to individual farms," said Richard Melvin, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture. "We welcome new funding for a soil amendment program and are grateful that the minister shares our concerns regarding the importance of improving soils on Nova Scotia farms."

Farmers can apply to the Department of Agriculture for assistance in the spring.