Farmers in Nova Scotia are optimistic about the potential recovery from last year’s severe drought with the winter snowfall. The province has experienced average to slightly above-average snowfall this winter, with snow cover persisting in most areas since mid- to late January.
Alicia King, the president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and a farmer from Antigonish, N.S., expressed relief at the snow coverage. She highlighted the snow’s importance as it acts as an insulating layer to safeguard the soil and crops, while also providing essential moisture as it melts.
Last year, Nova Scotia faced a significant drought, receiving less than 40% of its usual precipitation, with the southwestern region enduring a one-in-50-year drought in 2025. This drought had a severe impact on fruit-producing trees like apple trees, as mentioned by Emily Lutz, the executive director of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers’ Association.
Despite concerns, this winter has seen most parts of the province receiving average or above-average snowfall. Meteorologist Ian Hubbard from Environment and Climate Change Canada noted the snowfall figures for various regions, emphasizing that the snow cover has been consistent since mid-January.
The rate at which the snow melts now becomes crucial. Barret Kurylyk, an associate professor specializing in hydrogeology, explained that a slow melt allows for effective groundwater recharge, contrasting with rapid melts or heavy rain on snowpack that can lead to runoff. This slow recharge process is likened to a sponge soaking up water.
As of January 31, Agriculture Canada reported that Nova Scotia still faced moderate to severe drought conditions. Looking ahead, Hubbard predicts a warmer-than-normal March, beginning towards the end of the current week.