The federal government has announced plans to gradually shut down its research facility in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, within the next year. The seed increase unit, responsible for propagating and distributing breeder seeds to certified growers, will be relocated to the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre by 2028. This transition will involve operating from both facilities in 2027 to facilitate the move.
This decision follows a recent agreement between the federal and provincial governments aimed at preserving the Indian Head and Scott research farms, which were initially slated for closure by the federal government along with five other research sites nationwide. As part of the agreement, the province will assume ownership of the land as the federal operations wind down.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting the Canadian seed industry, ensuring breeder seed supply and upholding seed quality standards. However, the future plans for the Indian Head and Scott research farms remain uncertain without the seed increase unit in place.
Provincial Agriculture Minister David Marit stated that negotiations are underway with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to determine the fate of the remaining land at the Indian Head and Scott sites as federal operations cease. Additionally, the provincial government is collaborating with the Saskatchewan agricultural sector to devise a strategy for the future use of the research farmland.
