The federal government has announced plans to gradually close its research farm located in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, within the next year. The seed increase unit currently based at the farm will be relocated to the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre by 2028. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada stated in a recent press release that the unit will operate at both sites in 2027 to facilitate a smooth transition.
Responsible for propagating and distributing breeder seeds to pedigreed growers for multiplication and eventual sale as certified seed, the unit plays a vital role in the seed sector. This decision follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between 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 terms of 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 industry, meeting breeder seed demands, and upholding pedigreed seed quality standards.
However, the future plans for the Indian Head and Scott research farms, particularly in the absence of the seed increase unit, remain uncertain. Provincial Agriculture Minister David Marit noted ongoing negotiations with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to determine the fate of the remaining land. Additionally, the provincial government is collaborating with the Saskatchewan agricultural sector to formulate a strategy for the research farmland.
