A new provincial program will help farmers replace greenhouses damaged by Hurricane Fiona.
The $3 million Fiona Greenhouse Replacement Program will help registered farm owners build or replace their greenhouses, grow tunnels and other related infrastructure.
“Producers have worked tirelessly over the last several months to pick up the pieces after the devastating impacts of hurricane Fiona,” said Agriculture Minister Greg Morrow. “We said we would support our farmers, and this program is just one of the ways the provincial government is delivering on that promise.”
Expenses such as structures, heating, electrical, tools and technology used to monitor and control climate, and associated labour costs, are eligible.
Funding amounts will vary, but successful applicants will be reimbursed up to $10 per square foot for heated greenhouses, $7.50 per square foot for unheated greenhouses and $5 per square foot for grow tunnels.
Applications are available at https://novascotia.ca/programs/fiona-agricultural-disaster-assistance/ and will be accepted until February 28. Farmers who have previously applied for greenhouse-related assistance through the Fiona Agricultural Disaster Assistance program do not need to apply again; a case manager will reach out directly.
Other facts:
— applicants must be at least 19 years of age and own a registered, active farm
— damage to infrastructure and equipment must have been sustained on September 23 or 24
— a quote detailing eligible costs should be submitted with the application or by March 15
