Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has announced the closure of seven research facilities nationwide, including two satellite research farms in Saskatchewan. The affected farms, located in Scott and near Indian Head, play a crucial role in enhancing crop production on the prairies.
Upon learning about the impending shutdown, Steven Cole, the mayor of Indian Head, expressed shock and dismay, noting the farm’s 140-year history in the community. It has been revealed that operations in Indian Head may cease within the next four to six months, impacting approximately 30 full-time employees who will either lose their jobs or have to relocate.
The federal department disclosed that a total of 665 positions have been eliminated nationwide, with nearly 1,050 employees receiving notices. This move is part of the government’s efforts to streamline the public service budget. Despite these closures, AAFC emphasized its commitment to remaining Canada’s largest agricultural research organization, maintaining 17 research centers across the country.
The satellite farms in Saskatchewan focus on improving crop yields, a vital aspect highlighted by Richard Gray, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Saskatchewan. Gray emphasized the importance of supporting research that enhances agricultural productivity and sustainability in the province, stressing the need to redirect resources to ensure the continuity of valuable research efforts previously conducted at the now-closed facilities.
In addition to the Saskatchewan farms, similar closures are occurring at satellite farms in Nappan, Nova Scotia, and Portage la Prairie, as well as research and development centers in Guelph, Ontario; Quebec City, Quebec; and Lacambe, Alberta. These developments mark a significant shift in the landscape of agricultural research in Canada.