Province Invests in Agriculture Equipment for Cape Breton Farmers

CANADA, August 12 — Empowering Producers with Modern Equipment Rentals and Expanded Local Food Supply

Farmers in Cape Breton will soon have better access to the tools that keep their fields productive, their businesses growing and more local food moving from farm to table[cite: 1].

The Province is investing a total of $620,000 through the Community Economic Development Fund to the Cape Breton-Richmond Federation of Agriculture and the Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture to update and expand their equipment rental programs[cite: 1].

“Farmers are essential to our rural economy, our communities and our food supply. These investments will put modern equipment within reach for more producers in Richmond, Inverness and Victoria counties, helping them reduce costs, work more efficiently and continue growing strong local businesses across the region.”

— Premier Tim Houston[cite: 1]

Provincial Support Allocations

The provincial support includes:

Cape Breton-Richmond Federation of Agriculture: Receiving $330,000 for a new baler, rock picker, lime and fertilizer spreading equipment, tillage equipment, drills and various forage equipment[cite: 1].
Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture: Receiving $290,000 for cattle-handling, forage, tillage and manure management equipment, as well as a new software system to better manage equipment rentals[cite: 1].

Quotes from Leadership

Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, noted:

“The strength of Cape Breton’s agricultural sector lies in the dedication and innovation of the people and businesses driving it forward. By investing in projects that enhance productivity, strengthen local supply chains, and support sustainable growth, we are helping ensure the sector continues to thrive[cite: 1].”

Kathy MacIntyre, President of the Cape Breton-Richmond Federation of Agriculture, added:

“This funding, provided by both the federal and provincial governments, will go a long way in helping the many farmers within the Cape Breton-Richmond Federation of Agriculture. It has given us the opportunity to purchase new equipment that will benefit all members… [and] creates opportunities for new and aspiring farmers by giving them access to equipment they may not otherwise be able to afford in the early stages[cite: 1].”

“Building a more resilient economy across Atlantic Canada through enhanced agricultural productivity.”