A move by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) will see the closure of seven research operations nationwide, including two satellite research farms in Saskatchewan. The affected farms, located in Scott and Indian Head, play a crucial role in developing strategies to enhance crop production on the prairies.

Upon learning of the impending shutdown, Indian Head’s mayor, Steven Cole, expressed his shock and dismay, highlighting the farm’s 140-year legacy in the community. Cole revealed that operations in Indian Head are expected to cease within the next four to six months, impacting approximately 30 full-time employees who may face job displacement or relocation to other rural areas.

The federal department announced a total reduction of 665 department positions and issued layoff notices to nearly 1,050 employees nationwide. This decision forms part of the government’s broader initiative to streamline the public service budget. Despite these cuts, AAFC assured that it remains committed to its core mandate, maintaining 17 research centers across the country with research farmland in every province.

The closure of the satellite farms in Saskatchewan, with a focus on enhancing crop yields, has raised concerns about the loss of valuable agricultural research. Richard Gray, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Saskatchewan, emphasized the importance of supporting research efforts that contribute to the province’s agricultural competitiveness and sustainability. The shutdown of satellite farms in Nappan, Nova Scotia, and Portage la Prairie, along with research and development centers in Guelph, Ontario; Quebec City, Quebec; and Lacambe, Alberta, further underscores the broader impact of these closures on agricultural research and development efforts nationwide.