Successful Tour of Digby County

Agriculture and Marketing Minister Ed Lorraine has resumed his tours of farming operations across the province, visiting several producers in Digby County with Education Minster Wayne Gaudet Jan. 11 and 12.

"Agriculture is a strong industry in Nova Scotia and there is a lot of potential for growth," said Mr. Lorraine. "To really capitalize on that growth, we need to work together and take the time to talk to farmers and listening to their ideas and concerns is a very, very important part of that process. It is one of the best parts of my job and, like my colleagues, I do it every chance I get."

On Jan. 11, the two ministers visited hog operations in Concessions in the morning and mink ranches in the afternoon. They also visited the new co-op pelting plant in Hassett. More mink ranches were visited on Jan. 12.

There are approximately 132 farming operations in Digby County. In 1996, the total capital investment of these farms was $45.9 million. Digby County accounts for approximately 17 per cent of the province's hog production and 90 per cent of Nova Scotia's mink production.

These farm visits follow extensive tours done by Mr. Lorraine throughout the summer and fall in all areas of the province, including Cape Breton. Mr. Lorraine has also been attending the annual general meetings of the province's various commodity associations.