Nova Scotia farmers are experiencing the harsh reality of growing crops in a constantly changing climate. Rebecca MacInnis, a first-generation farmer and the owner of Spring Tide Farm, has faced numerous challenges since starting operations five years ago. She notes that extreme weather events, which used to occur once in a lifetime, are now happening more frequently. Last growing season, historic rainfalls in the province had a catastrophic impact on crop yields, negatively affecting farmers and the resiliency of the local food system.
The climate crisis has made farming more physically demanding for growers like Raphaelle Maruchitch. Climate-related challenges such as late frosts, flash flooding, wildfires, and heat waves disrupt the growing season and can result in financial losses. Despite the physical toll, taking time off is not always an option for farmers, as it can have significant repercussions on their income. Maruchitch, who first started farming in Quebec before moving to Atlantic Canada, was surprised to find that Nova Scotia’s climate was just as challenging as she had anticipated.
The extreme weather conditions in Nova Scotia have forced farmers like MacInnis to make changes to their work schedules. During this summer’s heat wave, they had to prioritize the health and safety of their workers over the need to work. However, MacInnis acknowledges that not all farmers or farm workers have the privilege to access time off when needed. Migrant farm workers, in particular, are disproportionately affected by the lack of occupational safety measures on farms in Canada, and climate change only adds to their existing challenges.
The discouraging reality of the impact of climate change on farming has led MacInnis to question the future of sustainable farming. She stresses the importance of taking proactive climate action to put the food system back in the hands of growers, producers, and consumers. MacInnis believes that for a future that includes food sovereignty, it is essential to grow food locally, support livelihoods, and involve communities in shaping the food system. The goal is to ensure that food is produced in a way that thrives in the region and meets the needs of the local population.
In conclusion, Nova Scotia farmers are facing significant challenges due to the impact of climate change on their operations. Extreme weather events, such as historic rainfalls, heat waves, and wildfires, are disrupting the growing season and affecting crop yields. The physical demands of farming have increased, making it harder for farmers like Maruchitch to sustain their livelihoods. MacInnis emphasizes the need for proactive climate action to ensure the sustainability of the local food system and empower growers, producers, and consumers to shape the future of agriculture. The hope is to create a food system that prioritizes food sovereignty, local production, and community involvement to address the challenges posed by a changing climate.
