2017–2018
Homegrown Success Program
Guidelines
Version 2
Our mandate is to grow the rural economy of this province and
we will do that by investing in agriculture.
Table of Contents
Homegrown Success Program…...3
Overview……………………………………………… 3
Section B to F - Environmental
Management and Innovation……………....10
Who is Eligible to Apply? …………………….. 3
Section B - Manure Management………… 10
How to Apply: ………………………………………4
Section C - Water Management…………… 13
Application Review Process………………..…4
Section D - Soil Management…………….. 17
Financial Assistance………………………………4
Section E - Product Management…….……19
Claiming…………………………………………..……5
Section F - Energy Management …………..21
Multiple-Registered Farms…………………… 5
Leased Land……………………………………..…..6
Section G – Production Management…...22
Arm’s Length Transactions…………………… 6
Wildlife Damage Mitigation….………………22
Project Evaluation and Audit…………………6
Season Extension…………………………….……22
Confidentially……………………………………….6
Limestone Trucking Assistance……………..22
More Information…………………………….…..6
Section A - Assurance Systems…………..….7
Appendix A: Program Funding
Summary………………………………………...….23
Food Safety…………………………………………..7
Traceability………………………………………….. 9
Biosecurity…………………………………………… 9
For more information please contact:
Programs and Business Risk Management (PBRM)
74 Research Drive
Bible Hill, Nova Scotia B6L 2R2
Tel: 902-893-6377 Toll free: 1-866-844-4276
Fax: 902-893-7579
Email: [email protected] Website: http://novascotia.ca/programs
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3
Homegrown Success Program
Overview
The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) entered into a fiveyear (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/programs
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Farms that:
• are currently registered under the Farm Registration Act;
• are at least 19 years of age and actively farming in the program year;
• have generated an annual eligible gross farming income of $10,000 or more in 2015. 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 agricultural custom work; however, no more than
$2,500 of income can be comprised of forest product sales or agricultural custom work;
• have a fur farming licence (if fur farming) Note: new entrants must have initiated the application process;
• have a completed and current (within five years) 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 from the
date of initial registration. 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 2013-14 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, waived for entities that demonstrate not-for-profit status;
• demonstrates a direct partnership and beneficial economic impact to the Nova Scotia primary agricultural industry
(e.g. sourcing available raw inputs and/or products from the local primary agricultural industry);
• demonstrate value-added processing to the raw Nova Scotia agriculture product;
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Note: Not-for-profit organizations must provide Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) documentation to substantiate their notfor-profit status.
• 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 Farm Application Form or the Homegrown Success Program Agri-Business
Application Form and include all applicable information and attachments. Please complete and attach the additional
Section forms (Sections A-G) for each category for which you are applying. 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)
74 Research Drive
Bible Hill, Nova Scotia B6L 2R2
Phone: 902-893-6377 Toll free: 1-866-844-4276
Fax: 902-893-7579
Email: [email protected] Website: http://novascotia.ca/programs
NOTE: The PBRM division of the Department of Agriculture is accepting applications now, but approvals will be
conditional until the 2017-18 provincial budget is final.
Application Review Process
The application-based program will accept applications from December 1, 2016 until February 3, 2017. 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, with the exception of projects under the Environmental Management
and Innovation section. 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.
You must review and return the signed copy of the Letter of Agreement to the
PBRM office within 60 days or you will forfeit the funding.
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.
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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
All claims must be submitted no later than March 1, 2018. 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, 2018
Eligible project expenses will be recognized from April 1, 2017 however, expenses incurred after this date but prior to
the date of approval, are at the applicant’s risk.
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, 2018. 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 license and required recognized regulatory documentation
identifying items as a requirement.
• An on-site inspection of all physical projects may be conducted to verify project completion and compliance.
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
In the event that a farm owner has more than one registered farm with a farm application, the applicant cap of $15,000
will be divided between them. If farms can demonstrate operational, financial, and legal independence, they can 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 available at the Programs office, and
include it with your application.
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).
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Arm’s Length Transactions
Financial assistance will only be offered on transactions (invoices) that involve a supplier/service provider with an armslength 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.
Project Evaluation and Audit
Review and evaluation of projects may be carried out by officials of the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) or
other parties chosen by the NSDA for the purpose of audit, analysis, evaluation, program development and determining
assistance. This review and evaluation process may be conducted prior to project commencement, during work or upon
project completion. Applicants may be asked to complete an evaluation survey statement related to their final claim.
Confidentiality
Applicants consent to the release of their name and the amount of support received under the program as public
information to be actively disseminated by the Department of Agriculture. Any other information provided, unless
disclosed in the manner and for the purposes stated above, will be subject to the confidentiality and disclosure
provisions to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIPOP) Act.
Contact Information
To find out more information about the Homegrown Success Program please contact Programs at 902-893-6377, toll
free 1-866-844-4276, 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
Sydney office
902-563-2000
Cape Breton Region
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Section A - 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
This section 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.
If you require more information specific to food safety projects, please contact the food safety general toll free line at
1-855-893-5309.
Provincially-Inspected Slaughter/Meat/Non-Meat Processing Operations
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED STANDARD ACCEPTED FOOD SAFETTY ITEMS
(You are not required to provide food safety documentation if you provide a copy of
your current federal or provincial license.)
• Consultant costs to develop an internationally recognized food safety process control
systems plan
• Internationally recognized food safety process control systems first certification audit
costs
• Hands-free hand washing units
• Shatterproof lighting in food preparation areas
• Water treatment systems (based on current water analysis to support need)
• 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
• Salt, pH, water activity (Aw ) meters
• Second meat slicer
• Meat saws, grinder
• Equipment for cleaning and sanitizing
• Verification samples
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS REQUIRE YOU TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT THE ITEM
IS REQUIRED AS PER A RECOGNIZED FOOD SAFETY PROTOCOL
• Temperature control monitoring devices
• Food contact equipment
• Post pasteurization equipment
• Other capital costs and services associated with meeting GMP or internationally
recognized food safety process control systems requirements
50%
$15,000
50%
$15,000
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Eligible Items
Provincially-Inspected Slaughter/Meat Processing Operations only
Cost Share
Funding Cap
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED STANDARD ACCEPTED FOOD SAFETTY ITEMS
(You are not required to provide food safety documentation if you provide a copy of
your current federal or provincial license.)
• Cooler unit purchase and installation for food product transportation or storage and
food processing areas
• Air conditioning units for processing areas (heat pump not eligible)
• Processing area: foot dips
• High pressure washers for slaughter facilities
• Vacuum pack machine
• Vinyl windows
• Conversion of processing sinks to hands free
• Disinfection units for knives and saws
• Exhaust fans
• Processes/devices for humane slaughter
• Product rails, rollers and hooks
• In-cooler shelving (not for product display)
• Construction and redesign of kill boxes
50%
$15,000
THESE ITEMS REQUIRE YOU TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT THE ITEM IS
REQUIRED AS PER A RECOGNIZED FOOD SAFETY PROTOCOL
• Product separation devices
50%
$15,000
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$10,000
Eligible Items
Hazard Analysis at Critical Control Points (HACCP) Compliance
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED STANDARD ACCEPTED FOOD SAFETTY ITEMS
(You are not required to provide documentation)
• Stainless steel holding tanks and lines, boiling pans/evaporators, pre-heater coils, gear
pumps and vacuum pumps for maple operations, based on HACCP requirements
• Second feed tank for treated and untreated feed (poultry/hogs)
• Nutritional analysis for labels
• Metal detector
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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*
•
•
•
•
Specialty equipment to track animal, plant and product movement between locations
Electronic readers
Facility modifications to facilitate use of traceability readers
Traceability software directly related to your traceability system
Cost Share Funding Cap
50%
$10,000
* 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
• Impermeable bio-security pad - 10 m X 10 m (poultry/hogs)
25%
$5,000
• Perimeter fencing - fur bearing operations only
25%
$10,000
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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 (BPMs) 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 BMPs:
• Applicants require a completed and current (within five years) Environmental Farm Plan (EFP).
• Applicants must submit Schedule A and Schedule B of the Environmental Farm Plan.
• All BMP projects require the Parcel Identification number (PID) for your project location. For help with finding your
PID, you can contact your regional office or visit: http://www.nsfa-fane.ca/efp/resources/factsheets/
• The five-year cap for Growing Forward 2 is $100,000 for all BPMs.
• The five-year cap for Growing Forward 2 is $50,000 for Manure Management BPMs.
Section B - 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.
PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2017-2018
Eligible Items
Manure Storage and Handling:
M1
Manure Storage construction (includes all or any component of engineered
assessment and design, building permits, soil testing, site preparation, concrete
floors, walls and contracted labour)
M4
Covers for manure storage (CSA approved only)
M5
Manure pit/lagoon safety fence
M6
Eavestrough for manure storage
M7
Construction of access road to satellite storage when building a new satellite
storage facility (permit, culvert and road construction costs)
M8
Costs for stationary transfer pump and pipe to move manure from limited storage
to a location of increased storage on main farm
M9
Costs of installing shallow observation wells or piezometers for existing or new
manure storage as identified by a professional engineer’s assessment
M10 Conveyance pipe to transfer milkhouse/parlor wastewater to manure storage
11
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$15,000
50%
$15,000
Fur Bearing Animals only:
M11 Installation of concrete under pens in to contain manure
M12 Installation of manure troughs/transfer pump/pipe of liquid manure to storage
M13 Specialized manure bucket/ auger
M14 Approved metal/steel storage tanks for temporary manure storage
M15 Permanent manure storage (must be concrete structure)
Manure Composting:
M16 Manure compost construction (includes all or any component of engineered
assessment and design, pads, walls, covers, vessels and containment structures
M18 On-site specialized conveying equipment for bringing raw manure or other
feedstock into compost area and taking compost to storage area
M19 Mixing aeration (e.g., wind row turner) and watering equipment
M20 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, and 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 drawings
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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
Liquid Manure Application:
M21 Injection System
Frame – Openers – Hose – Delivery system
M22 Low clearance delivery application system
M23 Addition of agitator and pump for existing liquid manure spreader tank
M24 Variable Rate Controllers
Solid Manure Application:
M25 Side or vertical (beater) delivery system (for replacement of worn parts on an
existing spreader only)
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$10,000
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Section C - 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 project startup for constructed wetlands, retention structures
(ponds), and concrete livestock pen and confinement areas.
Eligible Items
W2
W3
W4
W5
W6
Berms, culverts, eavestroughs
Constructed wetlands (including required engineering design and costs)
Construction of catch basins, retention structures (engineer design required),
channels/piping and vegetated filter strips to divert or control roof runoff, snow
melts, and excess runoff
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. Engineer design required
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$10,000
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$5,000
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
Well Protection (existing wells):
W7
Earthwork at well head or for run off diversion
W8
Installation and cost of pitless adaptor/decommissioning pit
W9
Upgrading or maintenance to well head or well casing, fittings, seals, and
connections to prevent seepage
W10 Flow control for artesian wells and back flow prevention
Well Abandonment:
W11 Sealing of abandoned well (licensed well-driller recommended)
Note: Nova Scotia Department of Environment regulations apply
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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. Permits are
deemed to be eligible costs for projects.
Eligible Items
W13
W14
W15
W16
Stream and stream bank crossing (rocking, riprap), funding for new structures
and repair of existing ones (e.g., bridges)
Improved stream crossings (fords, culverts)
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
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$15,000
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 project startup for wastewater facilities and/or a complete system
installation (costs provided by the supplier). Engineer costs are deemed to be eligible costs for projects
Eligible Items
W18
W19
W20
W21
W22
Treatment of wastewater (bio-filters)
Re-circulating and drainage collection systems
Concrete floor (catch basins)
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)
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$10,000
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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
W23
W24
W25
W26
W27
W28
W29
W30
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
system
Booms for low application
Cart extensions to provide low clearance
Pump and pipes to deliver to the start of field
25%
$10,000
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$10,000
Sustainable Agriculture Water Practices
Eligible Items
Water Use Efficiency
W31 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 tanks,) and installation costs
W32 Nipple drinkers (mink)
Remote Livestock Watering
W33 Livestock watering system (includes troughs, stock tanks, pumps, piping and
plumbing as part of a long term remote water system)
W36 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 need
(before installation).
W37 Current water analysis from an accredited lab
W38 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
W39 Surface ditching and leveling of ditch spoil
W40 Land forming on incorporated dyke land
W41 Dykeland culvert purchase and installation
W42 Tile drainage
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Sustainable Agriculture Water Supply
Eligible Items
Cost Share
Water Wells
W46 Construction of Water Well (includes pump, one test well, and pump tests)
W47 Well water level monitoring device (dip tubes)
W48 Pitless adaptor
W49 Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote systems)
W50 Single phase power supply for remote systems
50%
Ponds - must have fencing to restrict livestock access
W51 New pond construction
W52 Expansion of an existing reservoir/pond and/or liner
W53 Pond aeration systems (wind or electric compressors)
W54 All intake works (e.g., wet wells and intakes for remote pumping/aeration)
W55 Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote systems)
W56 Fencing to restrict livestock
W57 Single phase power supply for remote systems
50%
Dams
W59 Construction of dam (includes materials, contracted labour and engineer
assessment and design costs)
W60 Power supply (e.g., solar or wind power/pump for remote areas)
W61 Fencing to restrict livestock
W62 Single phase power supply for remote acres
Cisterns
W63 Cisterns and the costs of installation are eligible when they are an integral part
of a system required to supply water for agricultural production
Funding Cap
$10,000
25%
Hookup to Existing Pipeline for On-Farm Use
W64 Installation and consultant costs for individual hook-up into an existing
municipal pipeline (must be buried below the frostline)
Spring Development
W68 Materials and contracted labour costs for spring development (includes
collection well, cutoff trench or cutoff walls that direct it into a gravity pipeline
or pump)
W69 Fencing to restrict livestock
On-farm Water Management Planning
Eligible Items
W70
Consultative services for planning for sustainable water source
protection/management, for field runoff, and drainage management planning.
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$4,000
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Section D - 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
S2
S3
Concrete pads in pasture to reduce damage to usable land where livestock
feed/water (includes costs associated with engineer design)
Field access improvements for livestock only (alleyway/access lane upgrades)
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$5,000
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, retention ponds
and dams.
Eligible Items
Constructed works:
S5
Contour terraces (e.g., earthwork)
S6
Drop inlet structures and in channel control (drop structures)
S7
Gully stabilization/grassed waterways - earthwork, outlet structure, geotextiles
S8
Bank stabilization (bank shaping, gabions, riprap, crib walls, blanketing and
combinations)
S9
Improved infiltration of concentrated water flow (filter trenches, filter wells,
diffusing wells, etc.)
S10
Retention ponds and erosion control dams
S11
Wind/snow fence – including energy source (perimeter fencing not eligible)
S12
Silt fencing
S13
Stripcropping/perennial forages for severely erodible soils (no cash crop)
Cost Share
Funding Cap
50%
$10,000
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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
S14
S15
S16
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
Permanently mounted Global Positioning System to collect nutrient-related
information (yield monitors, GPS mapping software), autosteer, and light bars
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$5,000
Cost Share
Funding Cap
100%
$1,500
50%
$600
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
S17
S18
Nutrient Management- Consultative fees by a Certified Nutrient Management
Planner for a new Plan
Nutrient Management Plan Renewal
Nutrient management information required for claiming:
• Completed Nutrient Management Plan summary template –available from the PBRM office; and
• Three-year lime program template.
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Section E - Product Management
Objectives
• To decrease negative impacts to soil, water, and 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. Adherence to all provincial standards for
removal and remediation is required. Design should reflect Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture recommendations.
Neither the transportation nor the treatment of contaminated waste material is eligible.
Eligible Items
P1
P5
P6
P7
P10
P11
P12
P17
P18
Stationary Gas/Diesel Storage (includes all or any component of CSA tanks,
cement pads, electric pumps with automatic shut off, electrical costs and
protection)
Enclosure or roof for the fuel storage, ventilation equipment for enclosure
Removal of underground fuel storage tanks, if part of a new fuel storage project
Cost Share
75%
Pesticide Storage-one time cost share (includes all or any component of
construction costs, and ventilation
Tanks, gauges, automatic dispensers
Mixing, loading, cleanup systems (e.g., rinsate systems, closed mixing systems)
Fertilizer Storage - liquid fertilizer only - one time cost share (includes ventilation
equipment, site assessment, engineer costs and construction costs
Tanks, gauges, automatic dispensers
Mixing, loading and cleanup systems (e.g., berms, evaporation pits, rinsate
systems, and close mixing systems)
Funding Cap
$5,000
25%
Waste Management
Eligible Items
P19
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$10,000
Management Planning (done by qualified engineer, e.g., member of APENS)
Silage Storage:
P20 Impermeable base or slab
Mortality Composting:
P21 Composting of livestock mortalities – pads, walls, and containment structures
Waste Composting:
P22 On-farm septic system, engineered design required (e.g., milkhouse waste water,
fruit/vegetable cull waste material)
P24 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
P25 Mixing/aeration (e.g., wind row turner) and watering equipment
P26 Monitoring equipment (e.g., temperature, moisture, oxygen)
P27 Freezer for livestock mortalities
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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
Biological control agents 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
P28
P29
P30
P31
P32
P33
P34
P35
P36
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)
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 Wort
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$5,000
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Section F - Energy Management
Energy Efficiency Assessment
Eligible Items
E1
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$2,000
Consultative service for on-farm energy audit/assessment
Energy Efficiency Implementation (open to farms and agri-businesses)
Eligible Items
Cost Share
Funding Cap
25%
$10,000
Direct Production use only
E2
Heat curtains
E3
Reverse osmosis (maple)
E4
Plate cooler/heat exchanger (dairy)
E5
Variable speed drive (dairy)
E6
Infrared heaters (poultry)
E7
Creep heat pad (hog)
E8
Energy efficient shatterproof lighting (CFLs, high performance T8, LED) (one-time
cost-share only for barn and poultry)
E9
Insulation – must be replacing existing insulation
E10 Biomass (or pellet) boilers (low emission/high efficiency/clean/renewable fuel
technology) *
E11 Controllers (thermostats)
E12 Energy efficient motors/fans/pumps
E13 Efficient refrigeration technologies
E14 Consultative services for professional engineer
* Outdoor stick furnaces are not eligible unless they meet the 2015 New Source Performance Standard (NSPS). A list of approved
heaters can be found at http://www2.epa.gov/compliance/list-epa-certified-hydronic-heaters. If the item is not on this list, a
letter stamped by a professional engineer is required. The letter must indicate that the item is clean burning (equivalent to the
2015 NSPS).
Alternative Energy Systems (open to farms and agri-businesses)
Eligible Items
Cost Share
Funding Cap
Alternative Energy Systems (On-farm Direct Production Use Only)
E15 Ground/ air source heat pump (Geothermal) - heating/ cooling of production
facilities
E16 Wind power generation (Condition: must have completed a wind assessment that
supports the viability of constructing a wind turbine)
E17 Wind assessment
E18 Solar air
E19 Solar hot water heating - hot water heating in barns
E20 Solar panels or photovoltaic - remote locations or where reliability is a concern
(pumps, electric fences, remote lighting)
E21 Biogas technologies
E22 Agriculture biomass technologies
25%
$10,000
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Section G - Production Management
Wildlife Damage Mitigation
Objective
• To minimize damage to crops and/ or equipment from: deer, waterfowl/birds, and other wildlife species
NOTE: Funding is not available for labour to install fencing, nor for farmyard fencing/corrals. Project must be a closed
system to be considered complete.
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.*
• Dual perimeter electric fencing with a minimum of 3 strands. 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.
50%
$15,000
Season Extension
Objective
• To assist Nova Scotia horticulture crop producers in becoming more profitable by accessing new market opportunities;
• To assist in the adoption of season extension technologies that will allow Nova Scotia producers to increase their
production and obtain a broader marketing season.
Note: Season Extension is for new structures or expansion only. Repairs or maintenance to existing structures, plastic
and biodegradable materials used for one growing season are not eligible.
Eligible Items
Cost Share Funding Cap
•
•
•
•
plastic, polycarbonate, row or thermal covers, steel structures
heating, electrical, plumbing, irrigation, ventilation and anchoring systems
temperature, humidity, irrigation monitoring devices
contracted labour – site preparation, assembly of greenhouses and high tunnels
25%
$7,500
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/tonne). Please see the Programs website for these rates.
• The assistance will be paid at 75% on the lesser of the invoiced amount or the above noted gravel rate.
• The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program is provincial-only funding and is in addition to the $15,000 funding
available for all other projects. The maximum transportation assistance is $10,000 per applicant.
Claiming Criteria
The invoice must identify the kilometers from the source (one-way) 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, 2017.
PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2017-2018
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Appendix A: Program Funding Summary
Government
Cost-Share
(%)
Annual Cap
(max. combined $15,000)
Food Safety
50
$10,000 - $15,000
Traceability
50
$10,000
Biosecurity
25
$5,000 - $10,000
Improved Manure Storage, Composting and Handling
50
$15,000
Manure Land Application
25
$10,000
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 - 50
$10,000
On-Farm Water Management Planning
25
$4,000
Wintering Site Management
25
$5,000
Erosion Control Structures (Riparian and Non-Riparian)
50
$10,000
Improved Cropping Systems
25
$5,000
Theme/Category
Description
Assurance Systems
Environmental Management and Innovation
Manure
Management
Water
Management
Soil Management
New Nutrient Management
Planning (NMP)
NMP Renewal
Product Management
Product
Management
Energy
Management
100
50
$1500
$600
25 - 75
$5,000
Waste Management
25
$10,000
Integrated Pest Management
25
$5,000
Energy Efficiency Assessment
Energy Efficiency Implementation
$2,000
25
Alternative (Green) Energy Systems
$10,000
$10,000
Production Management
Wildlife Damage Mitigation
50
$15,000
Season Extension
25
$7,500
Limestone Transportation Assistance
75
$10,000
Note: Limestone Transportation Assistance caps are in addition to the $15,000 annual program cap.