COVID-19
*November 3, 2021 Update: U-Picks and Proof of Vaccination
Please note, there will be an update to the proof of vaccination directive. This update will indicate that the part of the U-Picks that relates to the selection of products will now align with retail establishments, and not require Proof of Vaccination (POV).
However, any leisure activities located on site (mazes, wagon rides, etc.) will require POV, which means visitors will need to be asked at that time.
COVID Updates & Resources
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, NSFA’s main goal has been ensuring Nova Scotians have access to safe, healthy, high-quality food. NSFA continues to work on behalf of our farmers during these unprecedented times in an effort to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on your operations.
Like many sectors throughout Canada, COVID-19 has had an impact on the agriculture industry here in Nova Scotia. Some of the key concerns that have been raised in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic are the arrival of temporary foreign workers, ensuring meat inspectors are able to continue working through this time, and the impact social distancing is having on farm profit.
During this time, NSFA has been working hard to keep our members up to date on our actions and providing them with new information as it comes available. Through social media and our email distribution we are doing our best to keep you informed! If you aren’t signed up for our eNews you can do so here.
FAQ – Asymptomatic Testing for Essential Travel
COVID-19 Guidance Document for U-Pick Farms
AAFC – COVID-19 – Information for the agriculture and agri-food industry
COVID-19 Financial Relief Measures Guide *Updated November 4, 2020
COVID-19 Financial Relief Measures Guide
*Updated November 4, 2020, reflecting the following changes:
- Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (MISTFWP) is extended again until November 30, 2020.
- Bill C-9, An Act to Amend the Income Tax Act (Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy), was introduced and includes the following business supports:
• The new Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, provides direct rent/mortgage interest support to tenants and property owners until June 2021. It supports businesses, charities, and non-profits that have suffered a revenue drop by providing up to 65% of eligible expenses until December 19, 2020.
• The new Lockdown Support, provides an additional 25% through the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy for qualifying organizations that are subject to a lockdown and must shut their doors under a public health order.
• Extension of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy until June 2021. It remains at the current rate of up to 65% of eligible wages until December 19, 2020.
October 28, 2020, update:
- Emergency On-Farm Support Fund: Applicants are eligible for federal assistance and a provincial top-up, for up to 75 per cent of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $50,000.
- Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA): As of October 26, 2020, eligible Canadian businesses that currently operating through a personal bank account will be able to apply for CEBA. CEBA support is being expanded from $40K to $60K.
- Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (MISTFWP): Last chance as applications close October 31, 2020. The MISTFWP will provide a maximum non-repayable contribution amount of $1,500 for each temporary foreign worker.
October 21, 2020, update:
- CEBA application deadline CEBA has been extended from October 31, 2020 to December 31, 2020.
*We continue to monitor all federal, provincial, and municipal business assistance programs relevant to agriculture and agri-food businesses in Nova Scotia. This guide is updated as programs are revised.
NSFA Documents
Farm Safety Resources
- COVID-19 Resources
- Pandemic Preparedness
- Business Continuity Plan
- Farm Emergency Preparedness Checklist
For a complete list of Farm Safety resources, click here.
TFW Resources
Click here for more detailed information on the requirements for the 14-day self-isolation period.
Additional Employer Resources
- Government of Canada’s Business Support Portal
- Department of Agriculture Fact sheet
- Health Protection Order by the Medical Officer of Health
- Working during COVID-19 (Fact sheet)
- CAHRC – Information and Tips on COVID-19
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Q&A
- Canadian Payroll Association – Payroll and COVID-19 Q&A
- Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) – Employment and Social Development Canada
Government COVID-19 Information Pages