Staff at a research farm operated by Agriculture Agri-Food Canada in Nappan, Nova Scotia, were informed about job reductions on Thursday, with limited information provided by the federal government regarding the facility’s future. The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture acknowledged the closure notice at the Cumberland County farm and is actively seeking more clarity on the matter.
Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the executive director of the federation, expressed concerns raised by members about the potential implications for the agricultural sector, emphasizing the farm’s vital role in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through significant research efforts. Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm is among the original five experimental farms in Canada.
Although Agriculture Agri-Food Canada confirmed approximately 665 job cuts nationwide on Thursday, specific details about the number of positions affected at the Nappan farm and any closure plans 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, emphasizing its invaluable contributions to forage production tailored to the region’s climate, benefiting the cattle and sheep industries in the Maritimes.
Independent MLA for Cumberland North, Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, highlighted the significance of the research farm to the local area and beef industry, pointing out the abrupt nature of the closure announcement. She questioned the timing of the decision, especially following recent positive developments such as the resumption of Canadian beef exports to China.
Jonathan McClelland, the executive director of the Cumberland Business Connector, estimated that around 10 to 15 individuals are employed at the Nappan farm and underscored the adverse impact of nationwide cuts on Canada’s competitive edge in agriculture, food, and beverage manufacturing sectors. He emphasized the importance of investing in these areas for industry growth and export diversification, particularly in light of global recognition of Canada as a safe food producer.
Efforts are underway by Alana Hirtle, the Liberal MP for Cumberland-Colchester, to gather more information on the situation from Agriculture Agri-Food Canada, reflecting public concerns and the need for a thorough understanding of the decision-making process. The Nappan research facility had previously faced closure threats in 2005.