Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program supports agricultural producers by subsidizing the transportation of limestone used for soil amendment.
The program aims to:
- Improve agricultural production efficiency
- Neutralize soil acidity for better crop growth
- Reduce transportation costs for limestone delivery
- Strengthen Nova Scotia’s agri-food sector
- Support sustainable and productive farming systems
- Promote inclusion across underrepresented farming communities
It contributes to long-term soil health and improved farm yields across Nova Scotia.
Funding Details
- Maximum funding: CAD 32,000 per applicant
- Coverage: Up to 80% of eligible transportation costs
- Funding applies only to limestone transport (dolomitic and calcitic)
Eligible Expenses
- Transportation and hauling of limestone to farms
Ineligible Expenses
- Purchase cost of limestone
- Administrative overhead
- Operating expenses
- Staff wages
- Small tools
- HST (taxes)
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered farms under the Farm Registration Act
- Mi’kmaq farmers in Mi’kmaw communities
- Agricultural industry associations (including Community Pastures)
Eligibility Requirements for Farms:
- Must be actively farming during the program year
- Applicant must be at least 19 years old
- Must be registered under applicable farm regulations
Eligibility Requirements for Associations:
- Must be a registered non-profit
- Must represent Nova Scotia agriculture/agri-food products
- Must submit required soil or nutrient documentation
Technical Requirement
Applicants must provide:
- Soil analysis laboratory report OR
- Nutrient Management Plan
These must demonstrate the need for limestone application.
Validity of Documents:
- Must be recent or relevant (within 3 calendar years for associations)
Program Focus Areas
The program supports:
- Soil acidity correction and land productivity
- Agricultural sustainability and efficiency
- Cost reduction in farm inputs logistics
- Strengthening local agri-food systems
- Inclusion of underrepresented farming communities:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- Black Nova Scotians
- Mi’kmaq and Indigenous peoples
- 2SLGBTQI+ individuals
- Racialized communities
Objectives of the Program
The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program aims to:
- Improve soil health across farmland
- Increase agricultural output efficiency
- Reduce financial burden of soil amendment logistics
- Support sustainable land management practices
- Promote equitable access to agricultural support programs
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Confirm eligibility under farm or association criteria
- Obtain a soil analysis report or nutrient management plan
- Estimate limestone transport requirements
- Submit application with supporting documentation
- Ensure compliance with funding and expense rules
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for limestone purchase instead of transport costs
- Missing soil test or nutrient management documentation
- Including ineligible costs (wages, tools, taxes, overhead)
- Not being properly registered under farm regulations
- Incomplete or outdated soil analysis reports
FAQ
Who administers the program?
The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program is administered in Nova Scotia, Canada.
What is the maximum funding available?
Up to CAD 32,000 per applicant.
What costs are covered?
Only transportation and hauling costs for agricultural limestone.
Who is eligible?
Registered farms, Mi’kmaq farmers, and eligible agricultural associations in Nova Scotia.
Is a soil test required?
Yes, a soil analysis report or nutrient management plan is mandatory.
Conclusion
The Limestone Trucking Assistance Program supports farmers in Nova Scotia by reducing the cost of transporting agricultural limestone to improve soil quality and productivity. By targeting soil health improvement and inclusive agricultural development, the program strengthens sustainable farming systems while ensuring equitable access for diverse farming communities.
For more information, visit Nova Scotia.