Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has announced the closure of seven research operations nationwide, including two satellite research farms in Saskatchewan. These farms, situated in Scott and near Indian Head, are pivotal in researching ways to enhance crop production on the Prairies.
Upon learning of the impending shutdown, Indian Head Mayor Steven Cole expressed shock, emphasizing the farm’s long-standing history of 140 years in the community. He revealed that operations in Indian Head may cease within the next four to six months, affecting around 30 full-time employees who might face unemployment or need to relocate to other rural areas.
The federal department disclosed that a total of 665 positions have been cut across the country, with almost 1,050 employees receiving notices. Cole highlighted the sentimental value of the Indian Head research farm to his family, spanning multiple generations of employment.
These closures are part of the government’s efforts to streamline the public service budget. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada assured that despite the cuts, it remains the largest agricultural research organization in Canada, with 17 research centers nationwide and research farmland in every province.
The Saskatchewan satellite farms play a crucial role in enhancing crop yields, according to Richard Gray, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Saskatchewan. Gray emphasized the importance of supporting research to maintain competitiveness and sustainability in agricultural practices.
In addition to the Saskatchewan farms, satellite farms in Nappan, N.S., and Portage la Prairie, Man., are also set to close. Research and development centers in Guelph, Ont., Quebec City, and Lacombe, Alta., will be affected by the closures as well.
