Nova Scotia Loyal program to give discount on local farm shares

The provincial government says Nova Scotians will soon be able to get a discount on community-based agriculture subscriptions, or farm shares.

In an announcement on Thursday, the government says the 10 per cent discount will come through the Nova Scotia Loyal program.

“With this new program, our government is making it more affordable for Nova Scotians to buy from local farmers and producers,” said Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Growth and Development. “When we buy local, we strengthen our communities, support jobs and keep more dollars in our provincial economy.”

According to the government, a Community Supported Agriculture membership or subscription requires an upfront investment from the consumer, who then receives regular shares of food from the farm over a defined period of time.

As for this program, farms participating will provide the 10 per cent discount to consumers and will be reimbursed by the provincial government.

Since its launch in February, Nova Scotia Loyal has expanded rapidly.

The investment from the government started with $300,000 in response to the trade war with the United States. It allows businesses to apply for a 70 per cent rebate on eligible expenses they incur for adding the “Nova Scotia Loyal” logo to their products.

The retailer Pet Valu joined the program, which means locally made products will now be labelled on store shelves. There are 37 Pet Valu locations across Nova Scotia.

According to the province, there are more than a dozen registered Nova Scotia Loyal businesses that produce pet products, including food, treats, apparel and other pet accessories.

In October, the government started offering $10 off books at local bookstores from Nova Scotian authors.