Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture Welcomes New President

Following the first Council of Leaders meeting after its 127^th Annual General Meeting, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) welcomed Allan Melvin, a 6^th generation vegetable farmer from Kings County as their 109^th President.

“I would like to thank Tim Marsh for his time and dedication to serving Nova Scotia’s farmers. I’m looking forward to this next chapter of my time with the Council of the Federation. We are fortunate to have many great partners with a similar vision of a sustainable future for our industry and we all have a vested interest in watching Nova Scotia farms thrive. In order for us to continue on the path toward a sustainable future, collaboration is key. We will continue to bring together folks that are passionate about elevating the profile of agriculture,” said Melvin.

“Our industry plays a vital role in Nova Scotia, not only are we a significant economic driver in both urban and rural economies, but we also play a big part in the health of our population. Our farms continue to produce safe, healthy, local food for their fellow Nova Scotians – this is something we are all incredibly passionate about, and something I am very proud of,” he added.

Alongside his father and uncle, Melvin operates Melvin Farms Ltd. a 600-acre family farm that produces cauliflower, green onion, cabbage, romaine hearts, and leeks. Over the years Melvin has served on various agricultural boards including the Nova Scotia Young Farmers, Kings County Federation of Agriculture, and the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council.

Melvin is joined by Alicia King of Antigonish County as 1^st Vice President, and Jocelyn Durston of Kings County as 2^nd Vice President.

King alongside her husband, owns and operates Six Maples Farm. Here they raise beef, sheep, meat birds and laying hens – they direct market much of their product and also sell on the commodity markets.

Durston and her partner own and operate Seven Acres Farm. Together they grow a mix of vegetables, herbs and flowers. And, also make naturally fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi.

“Representing the interests of our farming families across the province is a responsibility that myself, my fellow Council members, and NSFA staff take very seriously. We will continue to highlight the importance of agriculture, the opportunities that farming can offer, and the solutions to challenges that we are facing. This will be an exciting time, I’m ready to get started,” said Melvin.

Melvin, King, and Durston are joined by fellow Council members: