Staff at a research farm operated by Agriculture Agri-Food Canada in Nappan, Nova Scotia, were informed of impending cuts on Thursday, with little information provided by the federal government regarding the facility’s future. The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture acknowledged receiving a closure notice for the Cumberland County site and is actively seeking further clarification on the matter.
Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the executive director of the federation, expressed concerns raised by members regarding the potential impact on the agricultural sector. She emphasized the vital role the Nappan Research Farm plays in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through valuable research initiatives.
Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm is among Canada’s original five experimental farms. While Agriculture Agri-Food Canada confirmed a total of 665 job cuts nationwide on Thursday, specific details about the number of cuts at the Nappan farm and any plans for closure were not disclosed.
Larry Weatherby, a beef farmer from the Truro area and chair of the Agri-Commodity Management Association, lamented the decision to shut down the farm. He highlighted the farm’s significant contributions to forage production tailored to the local climate, benefiting the cattle and sheep industries in the Maritimes.
Independent MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin voiced her dismay at the closure announcement, emphasizing the farm’s importance to the local community and the beef industry. She questioned the timing of the decision, particularly in light of recent developments such as Canadian beef re-entering the Chinese market.
Jonathan McClelland, the executive director of the Cumberland Business Connector, estimated that around 10 to 15 individuals are employed at the Nappan farm. He expressed concerns that the nationwide job cuts could diminish Canada’s competitive edge in the agriculture and food manufacturing sectors, especially during a period of global uncertainty.
Alana Hirtle, the Liberal MP for Cumberland-Colchester, has engaged with Agriculture Agri-Food Canada to gather more information on the situation. Her office emphasized the importance of understanding the decision-making process and its implications.
The Nappan facility had previously faced closure threats in 2005, underscoring the recurring challenges it has encountered over the years. The ongoing developments at the farm have sparked widespread concerns and calls for greater investment in agricultural research and innovation to support local food production and ensure industry sustainability.
