Source: Statistics Canada.

  1. Soil sample testing leads among Nova Scotia farmers with 753 uses, essential for soil health and crop yield.
    1. Slow-release fertilizers, used 638 times, show commitment to sustainable soil fertility.
    1. Variable-rate input and GIS mapping, used 338 and 193 times, are gaining traction in precision agriculture.
    1. Auto-steer systems, employed 186 times, mark the beginning of automation in agriculture, while drones and robotic milkers remain emerging technologies.
    1. The absence of robotic greenhouse technology suggests challenges in awareness, cost, or regional suitability.

Source: NSFA Labour Market Information Workforce Insight Survey 2023

  1. A significant majority of respondents, 59%, are uncertain (“Don’t know”) about investing in new technologies, indicating a potential lack of strategic planning or awareness of available technology options.
  2. A notable 24% of respondents do plan to invest in new technologies, which suggests that there is a proactive segment within the sector looking to modernize and enhance operations.
  3. Only 17% have decided against such investments, which could imply satisfaction with current operations or concerns about the cost-effectiveness of new technologies.

Source: NSFA Labour Market Information Workforce Insight Survey 2023

  1. The highest interest lies in nutrient management and soil health technologies (44%), indicating that soil stewardship and crop nutrition are top priorities for farmers in Nova Scotia.
  2. Interest in farm automation to address labour gaps is significant at 31%, reflecting concerns about labour shortages and the drive towards efficiency through technology.
  3. There is a strong interest in investing in green energy solutions (28%), which underscores a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
  4. Precision agriculture technologies also receive considerable attention (23%), showing that farmers are keen on adopting practices that increase efficiency and productivity.

Source: NSFA Labour Market Information Workforce Insight Survey 2023

  1. The largest group of farmers (36%) plans to invest in agricultural technology within the next 1-2 years, indicating a strong, immediate interest in technological adoption.
  2. A substantial portion (32%) intends to invest in technology during the current year, reflecting an urgent push towards modernizing agricultural practices.
  3. A smaller fraction of farmers (13%) is looking at a 3–5 year horizon for such investments, suggesting a more strategic, long-term approach to integrating technology.
  4. A segment of respondents (7%) is unsure about their investment plans, which may indicate financial uncertainty or a lack of information on technological options.