Truro, NS – Following the first Council of Leaders meeting after its 129th Annual General Meeting, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) is pleased to welcome Alicia King of Antigonish County, as the 110th President.
King takes over the role from Allan Melvin, who will now serve as Past President after his term leading the Federation. “I would like to thank Allan Melvin for his commitment and leadership in representing Nova Scotia’s farmers. Our work during his term has laid a strong foundation, and I’m proud to carry that forward as we advocate for agriculture across the province, addressing both the challenges and opportunities crucial for its growth.”
As President, King assumes leadership during a critical time for agriculture in Nova Scotia. “The role of our farms extends far beyond food production. They are the backbone of our rural economies and play a key part in ensuring a healthy, food-secure future for Nova Scotians. For this to continue, we need to prioritize agriculture – tackling financial pressures, climate-related risks, and access to land,” King emphasized. “Our industry is ready to collaborate with partners and government to address these issues and find solutions, and I look forward to being part of that progress.”
King, alongside her husband, owns and operates Six Maples Farm, a seventh-generation family farm raising beef, sheep, chicken, and eggs. King is joined by Matthew Roy of Shelburne County as the newly appointed 1st Vice President. Matthew is a passionate advocate for the industry, owning and operating Coastal Grove Farm with his partner, where they grow saffron, herbs, vegetables, and tea. Serving as 2nd Vice President is Catherine Manning of Hants County, who owns and operates Manning Family Farm with her husband, a diverse operation producing grains, vegetables, and livestock.
Allan Melvin, now Past President, reflected on his time leading the Federation. “It has been an honour to serve Nova Scotia’s farming families. I look forward to supporting Alicia and the new executive as they continue this vital work, with collaboration being key to securing a thriving future for our industry.”
The NSFA leadership team is joined by Council members:
- Tim Marsh, Hants County
- Lauren Park, Kings County
- Peter Morine, Lunenburg County
- Andy Parker, Kings County
- Harry Van der Linden, Antigonish County
- Jacob Mullen, Digby County
- Bruce Wright, Hants County
- Nick van Vulpen, Cumberland County