Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has announced the closure of seven research facilities nationwide, including two satellite research farms in Saskatchewan. The affected farms are located in Scott, southwest of North Battleford, and near Indian Head, east of Regina, where workers focus on enhancing crop production on the Prairies.
Indian Head Mayor Steven Cole expressed his shock upon learning about the impending shutdown of the research farm in his community, which has been operating for 140 years. Cole revealed that the Indian Head farm may only continue operations for another four to six months, affecting approximately 30 full-time employees who may lose their jobs or have to relocate.
The federal department disclosed that a total of 665 positions have been reduced across the country, with nearly 1,050 employees receiving notices of the cuts. Cole emphasized the sentimental value of the Indian Head research farm to both the community and his family, spanning generations of involvement.
The closures are part of the government’s efforts to streamline the public service budget. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada stated that despite the cuts, it will maintain its position as Canada’s largest agricultural research organization, with 17 research centers nationwide and research farmland in every province.
The satellite farms in Saskatchewan play a crucial role in improving crop yields, as highlighted by Richard Gray, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Saskatchewan. Gray emphasized the importance of supporting research that enhances agricultural productivity and sustainability in the province.
In addition to the Saskatchewan closures, satellite farms in Nappan, N.S., and Portage la Prairie, Man., are also being shut down. Furthermore, research and development centers in Guelph, Ont., Quebec City, and Lacombe, Alta., will cease operations as part of the restructuring efforts.