Prince Edward Island horticulture producers now have new opportunities for growth and development through the Horticulture Diversification Program, launched under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
The program is designed to help farmers adapt to changing climates, diversify their crop production, and increase the supply of Island-grown products in Canadian markets. It aims to boost local agriculture while enhancing sustainability and competitiveness.
The Horticulture Diversification Program supports producers through four main activity streams:
Season Extension and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Expansion — This helps farmers invest in greenhouses and other controlled environment agriculture systems, allowing them to extend growing seasons and better manage production.
Efficiency and Productivity — This stream encourages the adoption of new technologies and farming processes that improve overall farm efficiency and productivity.
Post-Harvest Cooling, Freezing, and Storage — This support helps producers improve crop storage facilities, which extends the marketing season and reduces post-harvest losses.
Agronomic Support — Farmers can access expert advice and agronomic support to improve crop management and production techniques.
"Our Island producers are always coming up with new ways to adapt to changing climates and take advantage of new market opportunities. We're continuing to support them by getting them the tools they need to grow more crops, improve storage, and keep producing fresh, quality food all year long," said The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
"Our local horticulture industry plays an incredibly important role in local food production. We look forward to working with producers on the adoption of new technologies to process and preserve food for local markets, and in-turn aim to improve their ability to export top quality, Island-grown products world-wide," said The Honourable Bloyce Thompson, Prince Edward Island Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture.