The federal government has announced plans to gradually reduce activities at its research farm located in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, within the next year. The seed increase unit will be relocated to the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre by 2028. This move aims to facilitate a smooth transition, with the unit operating from both facilities in 2027.
The seed increase unit is responsible for propagating and distributing breeder seeds to pedigreed growers for further multiplication and eventual sale as certified seed. This decision follows a recent memorandum of understanding signed by the federal and provincial governments to preserve the Indian Head and Scott research farms, which were initially slated for closure along with five other research facilities nationwide.
Under the memorandum, the province will assume ownership of the land as the federal government phases out its operations. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting the Canadian seed sector, meeting breeder seed demands, and upholding pedigreed seed quality standards.
The fate of the Indian Head and Scott research farms without the seed increase unit remains uncertain. Provincial Agriculture Minister David Marit stated that negotiations are underway with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada regarding the future use of the remaining land at Indian Head and Scott as federal operations wind down. Additionally, the provincial government is collaborating with the Saskatchewan agricultural industry to devise a plan for the research farmland.