Funding available for wild blueberry, apple farmers in N.S. for new equipment

An apple tree is seen in this file photo. (Source: Communications Nova Scotia)

Wild blueberry and apple farmers in Nova Scotia may be able to buy new equipment through a program offered by the province.

Equipment eligible for funding through the new Wild Blueberry and Apple Harvest Efficiency Program includes:

- tree fruit harvest-assist platforms

- front-mounted blueberry rakes

- 48- or 60-inch blueberry harvester heads

The province says the new equipment is safer and provides more efficient harvesting.

“Our farmers work hard to produce healthy, quality food to feed families, create jobs and run businesses that build a strong economy and communities,” said acting Minister of Agriculture Kent Smith in a news release.

“This new funding program means farmers can access new equipment to help them harvest their crops in a way that’s safer and faster to reduce labour costs.”

Farmers can apply for up to $50,000 through the program, which can provide up to $1.2 million over the next two years.

“The wild blueberry industry has had a tough couple years, with increased costs and lower returns. Investing in new and more efficient equipment is part of a long-term strategy to make our farms more viable,” said Peter Burgess, executive director of Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia.

“This harvester efficiency program is one component of that strategy, for those farms that are looking to modernize and have the flexibility to do so. This program will help reduce the capital costs for farms that see these harvester upgrades as the right option for their operation.”

The province said Nova Scotia’s agriculture sector generated $753.9 million in farm gate revenue in 2023.

Apples alone generate close to $31 million in exports per year.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page