Homegrown Success Program - 2015-2016 Guidelines Our mandate is to grow the rural economy of this province
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Homegrown Success Program
2015–2016
Guidelines
Our mandate is to grow the rural economy of this province and
we will do that by investing in agriculture.For more information please contact:
Programs and Business Risk Management (PBRM)
60 Research Drive, Suite A
Bible Hill, Nova Scotia B6L 2R2
Tel: 902‐893‐6377
Toll free: 1‐866‐844‐4276
Fax: 902‐893‐7579
Email: prm@novascotia.ca
http://novascotia.ca/agri/programs‐and‐services/financial‐funding/Homegrown Success Program ... 4 Soil Amendment Program....................... 20
Overview ...................................................... 4 Assurance Systems ................................. 21
Who is Eligible to Apply? ............................. 4 Food Safety ................................................21
How to Apply:............................................... 5 Traceability .................................................22
Application Review Process ........................ 5 Biosecurity..................................................22
Financial Assistance .................................... 5
Claiming ....................................................... 6 Adaptability and Industry
Multiple-Registered Farms .......................... 6
Leased Land ................................................ 7
Capacity ........................................ 23
Arm’s Length Transactions .......................... 7 Business Development and Market
More Information.......................................... 7 Enhancement ......................................... 23
Environmental Management and Appendix A: Program Funding
Innovation ............................................. 8 Summary.............................................. 24
Manure Management .................................. 8
Water Management ................................... 11
Soil Management ....................................... 15
Production Management ........................... 16
Energy Management ................................. 19PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 4
Homegrown Success Program
Overview
The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) and Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada (AAFC)
entered into a five‐year (2013‐2018) bilateral agreement to implement Growing Forward 2, the policy
framework for agriculture.
Under the Growing Forward 2 bilateral agreement, $37 million in federal and provincial funding will be
invested over five years towards strategic initiative programming. Over the five years Growing Forward
2 and Homegrown Success programs will focus on three thematic areas:
1) Innovation
2) Competitiveness and Market Development
3) Adaptability and Industry Capacity
With the strength of our partnership with Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada and the funding for
programming under Growing Forward 2, the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture is well‐positioned to
provide assistance for the tools needed to improve profitability and competitiveness in Nova Scotia.
For more information on the Growing Forward 2 agreement visit http://agr.gc.ca/growingforward2 and
for more information on the Homegrown Success Strategy visit http://novascotia.ca/agri/.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Farm(er)s that:
are currently registered under the Farm Registration Act;
are at least 19 years of age and actively farming in the program year;
generate an annual eligible gross farming income of $10,000 or more. The eligible farming income will
be based on the Statement of Farming Activities (T2042, T1273) or Schedule 125 (Farm Revenue –
detailing sales by commodity revenue code) for corporations and limited companies that was filed
with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the most recently filed tax year. Verification must accompany
your application. The minimum income requirement must be satisfied by eligible commodity sales or
custom work; however, only up to 25% of sales may be comprised of forest product sales or custom
work;
have a fur farming licence (if fur farming) Note: new entrants must have initiated the application
process;
have a completed Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) at time of application if requesting funding under
the Environmental Management section.
New Entrant: For the purpose of this program, an applicant is considered a new entrant for the first five
years that the applicant is registered. The requirement of generating $10,000 in farm income will be
waived if the applicant:
has registered for the first time during or after the 2011‐12 registration year; and
must be able to show that it is an active farm, e.g., incurring commodity expenses.
Agri‐Businesses and Industry Associations that:
represent identifiable Nova Scotia agriculture and agri‐food products;
generate an annual gross income of $10,000 or more;PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 5
demonstrate a direct partnership and beneficial economic impact to the Nova Scotia primary
agricultural industry (e.g., buying a minimum of 50 per cent of inputs from Nova Scotia farmers).
demonstrate value‐added processing to the raw Nova Scotia agriculture product.
Government agencies and universities may be eligible, provided that industry support/contribution
and partnership are demonstrated. Partnership must be indicated through letters of support from
industry, as well as from a NSDA Agriculture Resource Coordinator (ARC). Contact for the local ARC is
available from PBRM office or on the website. Applicants must clearly demonstrate that they are a
separate and legal business entity.
Note: The following are not considered eligible applicants: service providers to agriculture/agri‐food
industry (e.g., consultants, engineers, government departments), wholesalers, and caterers.
How to Apply:
Complete the Homegrown Success Program Application Form and include all applicable information and
attachments. All information must be submitted before the application can be processed. Some project
applications may need further assessment. You will be contacted if necessary.
Submit application to the office at:
Programs and Business Risk Management (PBRM)
60 Research Drive, Suite A
Bible Hill, Nova Scotia B6L 2R2
Phone: 902‐893‐6510
Toll free: 1‐866‐844‐4276
Fax: 902‐893‐7579
Email: prm@novascotia.ca
Website: http://novascotia.ca/agri/programs‐and‐services/financial‐funding/
Application Review Process
The application‐based program will accept applications from April 1, 2015 until April 30, 2015, with the
exception of Business Development category. The Business Development category will remain open
until the targeted funds are exhausted.
The financial ($) impact of all your listed eligible project items must be clearly identified as they apply to
your farm or agri‐food business, as well as to the rural economy of Nova Scotia. Applications will be
rated and awarded funding based on the information provided.
Upon approval, applicants will receive a Letter of Agreement which identifies the eligible project
activities, assistance offered and the terms and conditions to which assistance is approved. Please
review this carefully, sign and return to the PBRM office. Note: Applicants are permitted to submit only
one amendment to the project table and it must be within 30 days of the date noted on the Letter of
Agreement.
Financial Assistance
Each applicant may be eligible for up to $15,000 for all projects (with the exception of limestone
transportation assistance). Applicants may be eligible for an additional $10,000 for limestone
transportation assistance. Please refer to Appendix A: Program Funding Summary for a quick reference
to cost shared assistance levels and caps by project category.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 6
Note: No more than 75 per cent funding can be received for any project cost incurred and paid by the
applicant, regardless of source (except new nutrient management plans). Applicants are required to
disclose their funding sources.
Claiming
Eligible project expenses will be recognized back to May 1, 2015, with the exception of limestone
transportation assistance, which will recognize project expenses back to April 1, 2015. However,
expenses incurred after these dates, up to the date of approval, are at the applicant’s risk.
All claims must be submitted no later than March 1, 2016. Multiple claims can be submitted any time
after project completion and prior to the final claim deadline. All projects must be paid for and
completed by March 1, 2016.
Claiming Form and Receipts
Once the project is completed a claim form must be submitted. Fill out the claim form and submit to
the PBRM office with all supporting documentation as follows:
All claims must be postmarked by the post office or received in the PBRM office by March 1, 2016.
Late claims will not be processed.
Provide copies of all invoices for eligible project costs incurred and paid by the applicant. Applicants
must include proof of payment to support completed approved project activities (e.g., debit slips or
official invoices marked paid and signed by supplier, cancelled cheques, credit card statements,).
Food safety projects – copy of provincial/federal operating licence and a final inspection letter from
provincial food inspection staff.
An on‐site inspection of all physical projects is mandatory to verify project completion.
Non‐eligible Claim Items
Items NOT eligible for assistance include:
current staff resources/salaries
HST/GST
operating expenses
in‐kind contributions
used equipment
pre‐paid expenses
honorariums/door prizes/gifts
Multiple‐Registered Farms
Only one application is allowed for farm individual(s) or entities. If a farm owner has more than one
registered farm, farms must demonstrate operational, financial, and legal independence to be treated as
separate applicants. The program administration has the final decision regarding whether the
registered farms will be considered one entity (one eligible applicant) for programs purposes. If you are
applying to have multiple farms considered for eligibility, please fill out the Multiple Farm Assessment
Form and include it with your application.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 7
Leased Land
Eligible projects must be directly applicable to the registered farm qualifying for the assistance on
agricultural land owned or leased. A copy of the long‐term lease (10 years) or rental agreement must
accompany the application form for all physical projects applicable to the leased/rented land. It is a
condition of approval that the lease be of at least 10 years duration. You must advise us immediately, in
writing, if the lease is terminated, if the term of the lease changes or if the identity of the lessor changes
in any way (for example, if the lessor assigns the lease or if the lease changes in composition).
Arm’s Length Transactions
Financial assistance will only be offered on transactions (invoices) that involve a supplier/service
provider with an arms‐length relationship to the applicant for approved projects. For the purposes of
Programs, Arm’s Length is defined individuals who are NOT connected by blood relationship, marriage,
common‐law partnership, or adoption.
More Information
To find out more information about the Homegrown Success Program please contact Programs or your
regional office at the following locations:
Central Region Truro office 902‐893‐6575
Valley Region Kentville office 902‐679‐6021
Western Region Cornwallis office 902‐638‐2395
Eastern Region Antigonish office 902‐863‐7180
Cape Breton Region Sydney office 902‐563‐2000
If you require more information specific to food safety projects, please contact the food safety general
toll free line at 1‐855‐893‐5309.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 8
Environmental Management and Innovation
Canada and Nova Scotia recognize that agriculture relies on healthy soil, water, and biodiversity profiles
for its long term sustainable productivity. They also value the important role the industry plays in
sustaining and replenishing our natural environment. Beneficial management practices (BMP’s) assist
farmers to mitigate on‐farm environmental risk identified in their individual Environmental Farm Plans
or Energy Assessments that advance environmental farm stewardship in Nova Scotia.
A number of Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) have been identified for support in five major
areas:
1. Manure Management
2. Water management
3. Soil Management
4. Production Management
5. Energy Management
General information regarding BMP’s:
Applicants require a completed Environmental Farm Plan (EFP).
The five‐year cap for Growing Forward 2 is $100,000 for all BMP’s.
The five‐year cap for Growing Forward 2 is $50,000 for Manure Management BMP’s.
Manure Management
Improved Manure Storage, Composting and Handling
Objectives
To increase storage capacity for better planning of manure application;
To increase protection of soil, groundwater and surface water; and
To improve air quality due to the decreased frequency of handling and the use of a contained source
of manure.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Professional engineer stamped assessment and detailed drawings are required for manure storage by
claim deadline. Funding is based on existing herd size/number of animal units at the time of application.
These documents must be submitted by the claim deadline.
Non‐livestock producers accepting livestock manure as a nutrient (as part of their nutrient management
plan) and storing, treating and applying the manure to land under their control, that is producing
agricultural crops, are also eligible. However, this incentive does not apply to operations that intend to
store, treat and sell manure or compost strictly as a commercial venture.
Note: You can apply for up to $30,000 in one year. Maximum paid out is $15,000 in a program year.
The remaining $15,000 can be deferred into the next program year and is included in the $15,000
annual cap (must be claimed in the first year).PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 9
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Manure Storage and Handling:
Engineered assessment and design (must indicate capacity for existing and proposed
storage)
Building permits, soil testing (for clay content)
Excavation/site preparation (including gravel, equipment rental, weeping tile, etc.)
Manure storage concrete floors; manure storage walls (may use concrete or pressure
treated lumber)
Covers for manure storage (CSA approved only)
Concrete slats (new construction only)
Contracted labour for construction
Manure pit/lagoon safety fence
Eavestroughing for manure storage
Construction of access road to satellite storage when building a new satellite storage 50% $15,000
facility (permit, culvert and road construction costs)
Costs for stationary transfer pump and pipe to move manure from limited storage to a
location of increased storage on main farm
Costs of installing shallow observation wells or piezometers for existing or new
manure storage as identified by a professional engineer’s assessment
Conveyance pipe to transfer milkhouse/parlor wastewater to manure storage
Fur Bearing Animals only:
Installation of concrete under pens in to contain manure
Installation of manure troughs/transfer pump/pipe of liquid manure to storage
Specialized manure bucket/ auger
Approved metal/steel storage tanks for temporary manure storage
Permanent manure storage (must be concrete structure)
Manure Composting:
Engineered assessment and design
Pads, walls, covers, vessels, and containment structures
On‐site specialized conveying equipment for bringing raw manure or other feedstock 50% $15,000
into compost area and taking compost to storage area
Mixing aeration (e.g., wind row turner) and watering equipment
Monitoring equipment (e.g., temperature, moisture, oxygen, etc.)
Professional Engineer Assessment
The following is required in the Professional Engineer Assessment for a manure storage:
Farm business name, contact and address
Date of visit, proposed project start and end dates
Type and size (number of animal units) of current operation, type of existing manure storage facility
and capacity, soil type
Environmental risk
Proposed work – type of storage, materials (use of recommended materials) and capacity. If it is to be
an earthen manure storage, the assessment must include clay content, subsoil texture, average depth
to groundwater, location of springs, depth to shale or bedrock.
Separation distances based on existing construction guidelines (well, water courses, property lines,
etc.)
Recommendations / issues
Land base available to utilize manure
Stamped professional detailed drawingsPROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 10
Manure Land Application
Objectives
To use manure more efficiently as a nutrient resource;
To decrease runoff and odour when handling and applying manure;
To apply nutrients closer to crops; and
To reduce environmental risks and providing a more uniform application.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
In all cases, approved applications for modification of existing spreaders must be intended for individual
private use and not for custom manure applicator operations. Funding will be provided for specialized
modifications to existing solid manure spreaders or the components of new equipment that provide a
significant improvement in pulverizing lumps and applying manure more uniformly than standard
equipment components (e.g., beaters).
Note: The cost for an entire new manure spreader is not eligible.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Liquid Manure Application:
Injection System
Frame – Openers – Hose – Delivery system
Low clearance delivery application system
Addition of agitator and pump for existing liquid manure spreader tank 25% $10,000
Variable Rate Controllers
Solid Manure Application:
• Side or Vertical (Beater) Delivery SystemPROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 11
Water Management
Farmyard Runoff Control
Objectives
To improve water quality by decreasing the amount of sediment, pathogens, and contaminants that
enter the surface water;
To decrease the amount of clean water entering the livestock facility or yard; and
To prevent soil erosion.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Engineered assessment and design are required prior to approval for constructed wetlands and
retention structures (ponds), and concrete livestock pen and confinement areas.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Engineered assessment and design
Berms, culverts, eavestroughs
Constructed wetlands (including engineering fee)
Construction of catch basins, retention structures (ponds), channels/piping and
vegetated filter strips to divert or control roof runoff, snow melts, and excess
runoff 50% $10,000
Earthwork and materials (e.g., fill, gravel, concrete, geotextiles required for
drainage, and containment systems)
Construction of impermeable base for minimizing runoff from livestock feeding
areas only. Notes: This project cannot be used for a future barn or storage
facility. This project is a one‐time cost share only
Water Well Management
Objectives
To reduce the risk of groundwater contamination;
To prevent surface water from contaminating aquifers; and
To prevent cross‐contamination between aquifers.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Well Protection (existing wells):
Earthwork at well head or for run off diversion
Installation and cost of pitless adaptor/decommissioning pit
Upgrading or maintenance to well head or well casing, fittings, seals, and
connections to prevent seepage
Flow control for artesian wells and back flow prevention 25% $5,000
Casing extensions to elevate well head
Well Abandonment:
Sealing of abandoned well (licenced well‐driller recommended)
Note: Nova Scotia Department of Environment regulations applyPROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 12
Enhancing Riparian* and Agro‐Ecosystem Health
Objectives
To protect aquatic life;
To maintain the quality of the surface water supply;
To ensure the riparian areas serve as islands and corridors for biodiversity; and
To provide extensive upland ecosystems.
*Riparian area pertains to the area along the edges of a river, stream, or other watercourse.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Applicants are required to follow construction guidelines for permits and approvals that are required by
Nova Scotia Department of Environment, Navigable Waters Protection Program, or Department of
Fisheries and Oceans.
Note: Project may be subject to regulations and require an environmental assessment under Canadian
Environmental Assessment Act 2012.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Permit(s), as required
Stream and stream bank crossing (rocking, riprap), funding for new structures
and repair of existing ones (e.g., bridges)
Improved stream crossings (fords, culverts)
50% $15,000
Buffer establishment (trees/shrubs), including riparian fencing (minimum buffer
5m from watercourse)
Beaver pond leveler ‐ to maintain the ponds at desired level, but prevents
flooding of roads and agriculture land
Recovery and Management of Wastewater for Re‐use
Objectives
To allow producers to expand or update their water circulation and treatment systems;
To encourage producers to recycle their wastewater;
To conserve more water and improve its quality;
To increase economic returns by lowering input costs; and
To reduce the impact of excess nutrients on the natural habitat downstream.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Engineered assessment and design required prior to approval for wastewater facilities and/or a
complete system installation (costs provided by the supplier).
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Engineered assessment and design (if applicable)
Treatment of wastewater (bio‐filters)
Re‐circulating and drainage collection systems
Concrete floor (catch basins)
50% $10,000
Sub‐irrigation systems for greenhouse operations (flooded floors, sub‐irrigation
mats, ebb and flow benches, trough benches)
Re‐use of water in cranberry bog operations (pipes and pumps to transfer water
from settling pond to header pond)PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 13
Irrigation Management
Objectives
To improve the efficiency of existing irrigation systems;
To decrease the amount of water lost through evaporation; and
To use less water and create a more secure supply for industry.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Project may be subject to regulations and require approvals (e.g., Nova Scotia Department of
Environment).
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Emitter tapes for trickle/drip systems
Low pressure sprinkler nozzles
Pipe or hose to provide low clearance
Improvement/replacement of infiltration galleries and irrigation intake system
New or improved backflow prevention mechanism to an existing irrigation 25% $10,000
system
Booms for low application
Cart extensions to provide low clearance
Pump and pipes to deliver to the start of field
Sustainable Agriculture Water Practices
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Water Use Efficiency
All mechanisms prior to the pressure system (e.g., valves, fittings, water meter,
backflow prevention devices, flow restrictors and/or pressure reducers as
required, storage tank or cistern) and installation costs
Nipple drinkers (mink)
Remote Livestock Watering
Troughs, stock tanks, plastic tanks
Pumps, nose pumps
Piping and plumbing supplies that are a part of a long term remote water system
Single phase power supply for remote systems and/or green energy power supply
Water Treatment ‐ water analysis from an accredited lab is required to support 25% $10,000
need (before installation).
Current water analysis from an accredited lab
Water treatment system for agricultural activities that require potable water
(e.g., water conditioner, UV light and filter, reverse osmosis system) and to
remove hardness (>121mg/L) and other fouling agents.
Water Management
Surface ditching and leveling of ditch spoil
Land forming on incorporated dyke land
Dykeland culvert purchase and installation
Tile drainagePROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 14
Sustainable Agriculture Water Supply
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Water Wells
Consultant fees
Test drilling (one test well per project, any additional must be pre‐approved)
Construction costs, including new pump
Pump testing
Well water level monitoring device (dip tubes)
Pitless adaptor
Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote systems)
Single phase power supply for remote systems
Ponds ‐ must have fencing to restrict livestock access
New pond construction
Expansion of an existing reservoir/pond and/or liner
Pond aeration systems (wind or electric compressors)
All intake works (e.g., wet wells and intakes for remote pumping and aeration)
Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote systems)
Fencing to restrict livestock
Single phase power supply for remote systems
Dams
25% $10,000
Engineered assessment and design required
Materials and construction costs
• Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote areas)
• Fencing to restrict livestock
• Single phase power supply for remote acres
Cisterns
• Cisterns and the costs of installation are eligible when they are an integral part of
a system required to supply water for agricultural production
Hookup to Existing Pipeline for On‐Farm Use
Construction and consultant costs for individual hook‐up that ties into an existing
municipal pipeline (must be buried below the frostline)
Trenching
Waterline downstream of the curbstop
Spring Development
Materials and construction costs
Collection well cutoff trench or cutoff walls that direct it into a gravity pipeline or
pump it to where it is used
Fencing to restrict livestock
On‐farm Water Management Planning
Eligible Items Cost Share Annual Cap
Consultative services for planning for sustainable water source
25% $4,000
protection/management, for field runoff, and drainage management planning.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 15
Soil Management
Wintering Site Management
Objectives
To increase the length of time available for feeding animals that are located away from the barn (e.g.,
in pasture);
To potentially improve herd health.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Location must be other than in barn or farmyard.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Engineered assessment and design
Concrete pads in pasture to reduce damage to usable land where livestock
feed/water 25% $5,000
Wind/snow fence – including energy source (perimeter fencing not eligible)
Field access improvements for livestock only (alleyway/access lane upgrades)
Erosion Control Structures
Objective
To minimize erosion in critical areas associated with riparian* and non‐riparian areas due to runoff
from agricultural lands
*Riparian area pertains to the area along the edges of a river, stream, or other watercourse.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Permits are required for bank stabilization construction. Refer to construction guidelines for permits and
approvals that are required (e.g., Nova Scotia Department of Environment, Navigable Waters Protection
Program, Department of Fisheries and Oceans).
Engineered assessment and design required for contour terraces, drop structures, grassed waterways
and retention ponds and dams.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Constructed works:
Contour terraces (e.g., earthwork)
Drop inlet structures and in channel control (drop structures)
Gully stabilization/grassed waterways ‐ earthwork, outlet structure, geotextiles
Bank stabilization (bank shaping, gabions, riprap, crib walls, blanketing and
combinations)
50% $10,000
Improved infiltration of concentrated water flow (filter trenches, filter wells,
diffusing wells, etc.)
Retention ponds and erosion control dams
Wind fence for non‐riparian area only
Silt fencing
Stripcropping/perennial forages for severely erodible soils (no cash crop)PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 16
Improved Cropping Systems
Objectives
To reduce erosion, as well as sediment and nutrients in the water;
To reduce the amount of fuel consumed;
To reduce the amount of dust in the air and increase residue on the soil surface;
To conserve moisture; and
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
All modifications to existing equipment must be permanently mounted.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Openers and coulters to an existing seeder, and seeding and post seeding
implements that apply fertilizer through low soil disturbance (e.g., liquid
coulter bander or row crop bander)
Manual or variable‐rate controllers for variable fertilizer application 25% $5,000
Permanently mounted Global Positioning System to collect nutrient‐related
information (yield monitors, GPS mapping software), autosteer, and light
bars
Nutrient Management Planning (NMP)
Objectives
To improve production efficiency;
To reduce air, water and soil pollution; and
To minimize social issues such as odor nuisance.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Consultative fees by a Certified Nutrient Management Planner (list of 100% $1,500 (new)
qualified planners is available from PBRM)
Planning and decision support tools (maps, aerial photos, sampling) $600
50%
(renewal)
Nutrient management information required for claiming:
Completed Nutrient Management Plan summary template –available from the PBRM office; and
Three‐year lime program template.
Production Management
Wildlife Damage Mitigation
Objective
To minimize damage to crops and/ or equipment from:
‐ Deer
‐ Waterfowl/birds
‐ Other wildlife species
NOTE: Funding is not available for labour to install fencing or farmyard fencing and corrals.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 17
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Fencing to a minimum of 8’ in height with page/ mesh wire or a minimum
of 8’ in height of electrified fencing with a minimum of 12 strands spaced no
less than 8” between strands – to prevent damage to high value cash
crops.*
50% $15,000
Dual perimeter electric fencing with a minimum of 3 strands and the spacing
distance between the outer and inner fencing must be 3’ ‐ to prevent
damage to high value cash crops.*
Scaring or repelling systems or devices (no animals) or netting.
*Funding assistance for fencing will be a one‐time cost‐share payment per field.
Product Management
Objectives
To decrease negative impacts to soil;
To decrease negative impacts on water; and
To decrease negative impacts to air quality.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
All fuel, fertilizer, compost and pesticide facilities must be constructed independently. The removal of
underground fuel storage tanks is an eligible cost only if part of a new petroleum storage project. All
provincial standards for removal and remediation must be adhered to.
Design should reflect Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture recommendations.
Neither the transportation nor the treatment of contaminated waste material is eligible.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Pesticide Storage (one time cost share):
Construction costs
Ventilation equipment
Tanks, gauges, automatic dispensers
Mixing, loading and cleanup systems (e.g., rinsate systems and closed mixing
systems)
Stationary Gas/Diesel Storage:
Electric pumps with automatic shut off
Cement pads
CSA approved tanks
Enclose or roof the fuel storage
25% $5,000
Ventilation equipment for an enclosed structure
Removal of underground fuel storage tanks, if part of a new petroleum storage
project
Fertilizer Storage ‐ liquid fertilizer only (one time cost share):
Ventilation equipment
Site assessment
Engineered assessment and design fee
Construction cost
Tanks, gauges, automatic dispensers
Mixing, loading and cleanup systems (e.g., berms, evaporation pits, rinsate
systems, and close mixing systems)PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 18
Waste Management
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Management Planning (done by qualified engineer, e.g., member of APENS)
Silage Storage:
Impermeable base or slab
Mortality Composting:
Composting of livestock mortalities – pads, walls, and containment structures
Waste Composting:
On‐farm septic system, engineered design required (e.g., milkhouse waste 25% $10,000
water, fruit/vegetable cull waste material)
Engineered assessment and design fee
On‐site specialized conveying equipment to bring raw waste or other feed‐
stock into the compost area and taking finished compost to a storage area
Mixing/aeration (e.g., wind row turner) and watering equipment
Monitoring equipment (e.g., temperature, moisture, oxygen)
Freezer for livestock mortalities
Integrated Pest Management
Objectives
To reduce the risk of negative impact on the environment due to pesticide use;
To reduce human exposure to toxic materials; and
To preserve the natural habit.
Specific Conditions for Eligibility
Organic pesticide use will be eligible for cost‐share for one season of application only.
Note: This BMP is not intended to fund capital purchases. The intent is to provide support primarily
through equipment modification or a producer may alternatively claim the value of eligible components
when purchasing an entire equipment unit. A separate invoice identifying the specific costs of the
components is required.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Mobile water tanks (trailer or truck mounted, cost of tank only)
Stationary tanks ‐ elevated for gravity flow to fill sprayers (cost of tank only)
Biological control agents (BCA) limited to microbial pesticides and predators
(BCAs must be implemented in accordance with established guidelines and
procedures for handling, etc.) e.g., barrier strips
Equipment for improved application (e.g., spray curtains, air induction tips, low
drift nozzles) 25% $5,000
Microbial pesticide injection system for sprayers
Spray rate controllers, chemical injection systems, jug rinsers and rinse tanks
on sprayers
Weed wiper
Trapping devices
Biological control for Tansy Ragwort, Leafy Spurge and St. John’s WortPROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 19
Energy Management
Energy Efficiency Assessment
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Consultative service for on‐farm energy audit/assessment 25% $2,000
Energy Efficiency Implementation (open to farms and agri‐businesses)
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Direct Production use only
Heat curtains
Reverse osmosis (maple)
Plate cooler/heat exchanger (dairy)
Variable speed drive (dairy)
Infrared heaters (poultry)
Creep heat pad (hog)
Energy efficient shatterproof lighting (CFLs, high performance T8, LED) (one‐time
25% $10,000
cost‐share only for barn and poultry)
Insulation – must be replacing existing insulation*
Biomass (or pellet) boilers (low emission/high efficiency/clean/renewable fuel
technology) *
Controllers (thermostats) *
Energy efficient motors/fans/pumps *
Efficient refrigeration technologies*
Consultative services for professional engineer
* Requires a letter stamped by a professional engineer who can demonstrate training and experience in energy
assessments, or certified engineering technologist who have completed the farm energy training module. The
engineer/ technologist must indicate that the project is an improvement in energy efficiency. Outdoor stick
furnaces are not eligible unless they are EPA Phase 2 White Tag Models.
Alternative Energy Systems (open to farms and agri‐businesses)
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Alternative Energy Systems (On‐farm Direct Production Use Only)
Ground/ air source heat pump (Geothermal) ‐ heating/ cooling of production
facilities
Wind power generation (Condition: must have completed a wind assessment
that supports the viability of constructing a wind turbine)
Wind assessment
25% $10,000
Solar air
Solar hot water heating ‐ hot water heating in barns
Solar panels or photovoltaic ‐ remote locations or where reliability is a concern
(pumps, electric fences, remote lighting)
Biogas technologies
Agriculture biomass technologiesPROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 20
Limestone Trucking Assistance Program
Program Objectives
To improve production efficiency; and
To assist in increasing the pH of Nova Scotia agricultural land.
Eligibility Criteria and Funding Limits
The program supports the transportation of lime only.
Soil analysis lab report for lime or Nutrient Management Plan – three year lime program template
Limestone transportation maximum subsidy rates will be based on the Nova Scotia Department of
Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal standard gravel rate (per kilometer per tonne). Please see
the Programs website for these rates.
The assistance will be paid according to the invoiced amount and capped at 75% of the listed trucking
rates.
The maximum transportation assistance is $10,000 per applicant.
The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program is provincial‐only funding and is in addition to the $15,000
funding available for all other projects.
Claiming Criteria
The invoice must identify the kilometers from the source as well as the amount of limestone
transported to allow the claim to be processed. Claiming requires proof of payment of limestone
trucking incurred after April 1, 2015.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 21
Assurance Systems
The Assurance Systems initiatives will support critical programs to facilitate early adoption of food
safety systems, national traceability systems, and national biosecurity systems. This theme will focus on
outcomes that enhance the safety and security of Canada’s and Nova Scotia’s food safety systems. It
will also recognize the need to minimize the occurrence and extent of risk incidents with programs that
enable the sector to be proactive in managing risk.
Food Safety
Assists in providing a safe food supply for the public. All projects to address internationally recognized
food safety process control systems (e.g., Hazard Analysis at Critical Control Points (HACCP)) and other
food safety measures must be supported by a qualified professional assessment based on licensing and
legislated requirements. Eligible food safety activities are based on federal/provincial regulations,
internationally recognized food safety process control systems, or food safety guidelines. Food safety
items are restricted to currently licensed (federal or provincial) facilities or those in the process of
becoming licensed within this program year. A copy of the license will be required for processing of the
claim.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Provincially‐Inspected Slaughter/Meat Processing Operations/
Non‐Meat Processing Operations
Consultant costs to develop an internationally recognized food safety
process control systems plan
Internationally recognized food safety process control systems first
certification audit costs
Other capital costs and services associated with meeting GMP or
internationally recognized food safety process control systems requirements
Hands‐free hand washing units
Shatterproof lighting in food preparation areas
Water treatment systems (based on current water analysis to support need)
50% $15,000
Waste/effluent treatment system (requires an engineer design)
Floor, wall, work bench and ceiling surfacing and installation for product
delivery transportation and food processing areas
Temperature control monitoring devices
Salt, pH, water activity (Aw ) meters
Food contact equipment
Post pasteurization equipment
Verification samples
Second meat slicer
Meat saws, grinder
Equipment for cleaning and sanitizing
Provincially‐Inspected Slaughter/Meat Processing Operations only
Cooler unit purchase and installation for product transportation or storage
and processing areas
Air conditioning units for processing areas 50% $15,000
Processing area: foot dips
High pressure washers for slaughter facilities
Vacuum pack machinePROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 22
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Provincially‐Inspected Slaughter/Meat Processing Operations only (continued)
Vinyl windows
Conversion of processing sinks to hands free
Disinfection units for knives and saws
Exhaust fans
Processes/devices for humane slaughter 50% $15,000
Product separation devices
Product rails, rollers and hooks
In‐cooler shelving (not for product display)
Construction and redesign of kill boxes
Hazard Analysis at Critical Control Points (HACCP) Compliance
Stainless steel holding tanks and lines, boiling pans/evaporators, pre‐heater
coils, gear pumps and vacuum pumps for maple operations, based on HACCP
requirements 50% $10,000
Second feed tank for treated and untreated feed (poultry/hogs)
Nutritional analysis for labels
Traceability
The objective of this initiative is to assist a sector that is proactive in mitigating risk through the
development and implementation of full‐chain tracking and tracing capabilities. This initiative will
provide funding to individual businesses to assist in the purchase and installation of traceability
infrastructure and the training of staff to implement traceability systems for plants, animals and
products. For example, within the livestock sector this could include the equipment and data systems
necessary to record, store, and report data.
Non‐eligible items: weigh scales, heat detection systems, computers, smart phones, and tablets.
Eligible Items* Cost Share Funding Cap
Specialty equipment to track animal, plant and product movement between
locations
Electronic readers 50% $10,000
Facility modifications to facilitate use of traceability readers
Traceability software directly related to your traceability system
* Funding for eligible items will be subject to third‐party assessment and approval by program
administration.
Biosecurity
This program will provide and enhance biosecurity systems and processes with available equipment and
biosecurity structures to support adoption of biosecurity systems.
Eligible Items Cost Share Funding Cap
Disease Control
25% $5,000
Impermeable bio‐security pad ‐ 10 m X 10 m (poultry/hogs)
Perimeter fencing ‐ fur bearing operations only 25% $10,000PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 23
Adaptability and Industry Capacity
The goal of Nova Scotia's Adaptability and Industry Capacity theme is to support the development of the
agri‐food sector. The programs and services in this stream build awareness of the benefits and
encourage the use of sound business management practices in enabling businesses in the sector to be
profitable, while sustainably producing and marketing safe food and other products. Initiatives facilitate
human resource development through enhancement of entrepreneurship and business management
skills and planning to promote growth in the broader agriculture and food industry.
Business Development and Market Enhancement
Enables the agriculture sector to become proactive in business development, resulting in improved
business management, knowledge and skills, thus increasing the adoption of best management
practices. This initiative will assist business managers in improving management practices, identifying
and developing new markets and opportunities, and effectively managing risks and resources.
Eligible Items Cost Share Annual Cap
Business Planning and Opportunity Assessment
Consultative services for development of a comprehensive business plan,
marketing plan, feasibility and marketing studies (implementation not eligible)
Owner Business Management Training
On‐site business management trainer fee or off‐site university non‐credit business
management course within Atlantic Canada (registration fee, mileage – provincial
rate and accommodations – to a maximum of $100/night)
Employee(s) Business Training 50% $15,000
On‐site business management trainer fee or off‐site university non‐credit business
management course within Atlantic Canada (registration fee, mileage – provincial
rate and accommodations – to a maximum of $100/night)
New Product Development and/or Marketing
Consultative services for new product development
First run and plate costs of product labels
Initial printing of market information, promotional materials (printed
stationery), on‐site signage, and packaging
Industry Knowledge, Training and Skills Development
Development and implementation of new workshops and conferences,
educational materials and tools related to human resource development,
business development, leadership and entrepreneurship
Contracted guest speaker fee and expenses (airfare, accommodations, ground
transportation, meals) 50% $15,000
Venue/meeting room rental, audio visual equipment rental (Note: new
conference/workshop only, annual conference/meeting not eligible)
Conference/workshop brochures and other promotional stationery/ printed
materials (Note: new conference/workshop only, annual conference/meeting not
eligible)
Ineligible activities: Attendance to conferences, workshops, exhibitions, symposiums, expos, all costs
associated with annual/ repeat conferences and advertising.PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2015–2016 24
Appendix A: Program Funding Summary
Government Annual Cap
Theme/Category Description Cost Share (max. combined
(%) $15,000)
Environmental Management and Innovation
Manure Improved Manure Storage, Composting and Handling 50 $15,000*
Management Manure Land Application 25 $10,000
Water Management Farmyard Runoff Control 50 $10,000
Water Well Management 25 $5,000
Enhancing Riparian and Agro‐ecosystem Health 50 $15,000
Recovery and Management of Wastewater for Re‐use 50 $10,000
Irrigation Management 25 $10,000
Sustainable Agricultural Water Practices 25 $15,000
Sustainable Agricultural Water Supply 25 $10,000
On‐Farm Water Management Planning 25 $4,000
Soil Management Wintering Site Management 25 $5,000
Erosion Control Structures (Riparian and Non‐Riparian) 50 $10,000
Improved Cropping Systems 25 $5,000
New Nutrient Management NMP Renewal
100 50 $1500 $600
Planning (NMP)
Production Product Management $5,000
Management Waste Management 25 $10,000
Integrated Pest Management $5,000
Energy Energy Efficiency Assessment $2,000
Management Energy Efficiency Implementation 25 $10,000
Alternative (Green) Energy Systems $10,000
Assurance Systems
Food Safety 50 $10,000
Traceability 25 $10,000
Biosecurity 50 $15,000
Business Development and Market Enhancement
Business Development 50 $15,000
Note: Limestone Transportation Assistance caps are in addition to the $15,000 annual program cap.
Limestone Transportation Assistance 75 $10,000
*Financial exception for manure storage, composting and handling: you can apply for up to $30,000 in one
year. Maximum paid out is $15,000 in the program year. The remaining $15,000 can be deferred into the
next program year and is included in the $15,000 annual cap. The entire project must be claimed in the first
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