A national research shutdown by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is impacting seven facilities, including two satellite research farms in Saskatchewan. The affected farms are located in Scott, southwest of North Battleford, and near Indian Head, east of Regina. These farms play a vital role in enhancing crop production on the prairies.
Steven Cole, the mayor of Indian Head, expressed shock upon learning that the community’s research farm, which has been operational for 140 years, will be closing soon. Cole mentioned that operations in Indian Head may only continue for another four to six months, affecting about 30 full-time employees who will either lose their jobs or have to relocate.
The federal department announced a reduction of 665 positions nationwide, with nearly 1,050 employees receiving notices. This move is part of the government’s efforts to streamline the public service budget. Despite the cuts, AAFC assured that it will continue to be Canada’s largest agricultural research organization, maintaining 17 research centers across the country.
The satellite farms in Saskatchewan are crucial for improving crop yields, according to Richard Gray, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Saskatchewan. Gray emphasized the importance of supporting research that contributes to the province’s competitiveness in agriculture. With the closure of research sites in other provinces, resources may need to be reallocated to ensure the continuity of valuable agricultural research efforts.
In addition to the Saskatchewan facilities, satellite farms in Nappan, Nova Scotia, and Portage la Prairie are also shutting down, along with research and development centers in Guelph, Ontario; Quebec City, Quebec; and Lacambe, Alberta. The closures reflect the broader restructuring within AAFC to align with the organization’s core mandates while seeking cost savings.
Overall, the closures are raising concerns about the future of agricultural research and innovation in Canada, highlighting the need for ongoing support to sustain advancements in the agricultural sector.
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