Technology Used in Farm Operations
Source: Statistics Canada.
- Soil sample testing leads among Nova Scotia farmers with 753 uses, essential for soil health and crop yield.
- Slow-release fertilizers, used 638 times, show commitment to sustainable soil fertility.
- Variable-rate input and GIS mapping, used 338 and 193 times, are gaining traction in precision agriculture.
- Auto-steer systems, employed 186 times, mark the beginning of automation in agriculture, while drones and robotic milkers remain emerging technologies.
- The absence of robotic greenhouse technology suggests challenges in awareness, cost, or regional suitability.
Source: NSFA Labour Market Information Workforce Insight Survey 2023
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Interest in farm automation to address labour gaps is significant at 31%, reflecting concerns about labour shortages and the drive towards efficiency through technology.
- There is a strong interest in investing in green energy solutions (28%), which underscores a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
- 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
- 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.
- A substantial portion (32%) intends to invest in technology during the current year, reflecting an urgent push towards modernizing agricultural practices.
- 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.
- A segment of respondents (7%) is unsure about their investment plans, which may indicate financial uncertainty or a lack of information on technological options.
