Commodity Groups Find Efficiency in New Organization

Nova Scotia's beef, sheep and pork producer associations are strengthening the agriculture industry by working together to address challenges and take advantage of opportunities.

Pork Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Cattle Producers and the Sheep Producers Association of Nova Scotia are creating the Agri-Commodity Management Association to co-ordinate programs and look for joint ventures in the red meat industry.

"A co-ordinated approach to sharing resources and information means our industries are more competitive," said Agriculture Minister John MacDonell. "I applaud these groups for coming together and creating an effective, sustainable business model."

The groups agreed to share professional services and administrative support to provide consistent, quality support while reducing overhead costs.

The commodity groups have created a governing structure and by-laws for the new association, which has hired Brad McCallum as its first executive director.

The Department of Agriculture approved $300,000 in funding over three years. The goal is for the association is to be self-sustaining by year three.

The new business model was supported by the Department of Agriculture and the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture.