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The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have stepped in to protect the immediate future of two historic provincial research hubs.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) alongside the Government of Saskatchewan announced a new joint initiative this week to explore options that will support ongoing agricultural activities at the Indian Head and Scott research farms. Both facilities are currently slated for disposal by the federal government.
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The strategy is being driven by a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two levels of government. Under the terms of the agreement, officials will work to establish interim arrangements to ensure the land and infrastructure remain productive assets for local producers and the wider agricultural industry.
Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) said in a news release the agreement is a positive step but warns other federal research sites remain at risk and require immediate action.
GGC said the Indian Head and Scott research farms are essential to delivering regionally relevant research that drives productivity, strengthens resilience to climate and market pressures, and supports Canada’s global competitiveness but that same capacity is at risk in other regions.
“Canada’s grain farmers depend on consistent, well-funded public research to remain competitive and meet growing global demand. Incremental or temporary measures are not sufficient. Immediate federal action is required to ensure the long-term strength of Canada’s agricultural research system,” the GGC statement said, adding the organization would continue to work with governments and industry partners to secure the research capacity.
According to federal officials, the decision to divest from the properties comes as AAFC strategically realigns its national operations, with the department shifting its focus to focus on science with the highest potential to accelerate innovations and modernise the agricultural sector.
Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Heath MacDonald, emphasized that while Ottawa no longer needs the land for its specific programming, the legacy of the property must be respected.
“Agriculture is central to Saskatchewan’s communities and economy, and we want to ensure these properties support ongoing agricultural activities,” MacDonald said in a statement.
“While these properties are no longer required for federal programs, we want to ensure this land continues to serve a meaningful purpose. This collaboration with the Province of Saskatchewan demonstrates our shared commitment to maintaining the value of this important agricultural asset.”
Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture, David Marit, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the vital role these specific research stations have played in keeping local farmers profitable and competitive on a global scale.
“The Indian Head and Scott research farms supported important agricultural research for many years and are an important part of a research network that keeps Saskatchewan agriculture competitive,” Marit stated.
“This MOU will see the Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada work together to ensure agricultural activities continue at these sites while longer-term processes advance benefiting Saskatchewan producers.”
Despite the upcoming divestments in Saskatchewan, AAFC remains the nation’s largest agricultural research network.
The federal body continues to operate 17 research centres across the country, maintaining active facilities and scientific staff in every province. Moving forward, the department intends to focus investments into international, academic, and industry-led collaborations to advance shared science priorities.
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