Farmer Stories
Spring Tide
Jessie MacInnis and her sister Rebecca Spring Tide Farm in Lapland, N.S. We talked to Jessie about land stewardship as a farmer and the importance of rooting farming in community support and advocacy.
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Rebecca and Jessie MacInnis, photographed by Meagan Hancock -
Jessie picking basil in the greenhouse, photographed by Meagan Hancock -
Jessie showing off a bin of basil picked in the greenhouse, photographed by Meagan Hancock -
Jessie and Rebecca weeding, photographed by Meagan Hancock -
Rebecca picking lettuce, photographed by Meagan Hancock -
A colorful array of fresh veggies, photographed by Meagan Hancock
Tell us about your farm:
Founded in 2020 by sisters Jessie and Rebecca MacInnis, Spring Tide Farm began as a humble transformation of a former hog farm in Lapland, Nova Scotia. Starting with hay cultivation, they gradually expanded into a diversified certified organic operation, now growing vegetables, flowers, and even honey from their budding apiary.
Today, the farm stewards just under two acres of land, supplying fresh produce and blooms through CSA subscriptions delivered to Halifax, Bridgwater, and Lunenburg. Jessie, a tomato enthusiast, grows heirloom varieties alongside other organic vegetables, while Rebecca tends to vibrant cut flowers like peonies. Their team has grown to include two more employees, allowing them to deepen their commitment to agroecology and sustainable practices.
Why did you become certified:
For Spring Tide, organic was always the goal. Their mentor, Cammy Harbottle of Waldegrave farm in Tatamagouche, is an organic producer who provided insight into organic best practices and the meticulous level of record needed in addition to being part of organic inspection. Jessie views farming as a responsibility, to the land, their community, and broader movements supporting small farms and food sovereignty. It’s not just about certification; it’s about stewardship and advocacy.
What’s been your biggest challenge?
One of the most consistent challenges has been climate change impacts. Unpredictable weather and shifting pest pressures, like the emergence of leek moth in NS, have tested their resilience. Managing these new pressures can put organic producers between a rock and a hard place, with organic solutions, such as plastic row covers, sometimes feeling at odds with their ecological values.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Motivation comes from the little joys. Spotting turtles and wood ducks in their pond, knowing their work sustains these ecosystems. Equally motivating is their community - fellow small farmers, CSA members, and participating in organizations like ACORN and the National Farmers Union (NFU) that amplify their voice and support their advocacy for small farms and rural communities.
What advice would you give to young farmers?
Don’t go it alone. Farming thrives on interdependence. Jessie recalls the strain of running a CSA solo their first season and emphasizes the importance of caring mentors, like Cammy, supportive peers, and family partnerships. "The interdependence of rural people was key to the thriving and vibrancy of rural communities in the past". They also urge new farmers to join advocacy groups, being part of ACORN and the NFU has been transformative for their journey in farming and creating a sense of purpose.