From MLA Elizabeth Smith McCrossin Cumberland North
Smith-McCrossin Introduces Bill to Protect Nappan
HALIFAX, N.S. – Cumberland North MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin introduced the Nappan Agricultural Land and Research Protection Act Friday, September 11th, challenging Agriculture Minister Greg Morrow to protect the farm’s land, livestock and research.
“Nappan supports farmers across Atlantic Canada. What has Minister Morrow secured for its future?” said Smith-McCrossin. “Farmers and employees deserve a clear answer.”
The bill would require the Province to press Ottawa to keep Nappan federally owned, operated and funded. If federal closure proceeds, the Province would have to develop a public intervention plan and seek control of the lands and research assets needed to preserve the farm.
“Our first demand remains that Ottawa reverse its decision,” said Smith-McCrossin. “But if Ottawa walks away, the Minister of Agriculture cannot continue to stand aside. At the very least, he must protect the land for agricultural purposes and preserve the research farmers depend on.”
Lands brought under provincial authority would be reserved for agriculture, research, agricultural education or food-security purposes and directly supporting uses. The bill would restrict incompatible development and protect livestock, genetic resources, equipment and research records, with regular public reporting.
These protections would include Nappan’s capacity to study how the region’s rich Acadia dykeland soils support forage production, grazing and livestock nutrition.
“Our farmers need research that connects their soil, the feed they grow and the livestock they raise,” said Smith-McCrossin. “Protecting Nappan means preserving that knowledge alongside the land. Federal ownership does not excuse provincial inaction.