The federal government has announced the gradual closure of 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, with a transitional period in 2027 where operations will run at both sites. This unit is responsible for producing and distributing breeder seeds to certified growers for multiplication and sale.
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, initially slated for closure along with five other research facilities nationwide. As part of the memorandum, the province will assume control of the land as the federal government phases out its activities.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada affirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting the Canadian seed industry, ensuring the fulfillment of breeder seed requests, and maintaining pedigreed seed quality standards. The future plans for the Indian Head and Scott research farms beyond the seed increase unit relocation remain uncertain.
Provincial Agriculture Minister David Marit stated that negotiations are underway with the federal government regarding the fate of the remaining land at the Indian Head and Scott sites during the winding down process. Additionally, the provincial government is collaborating with the Saskatchewan agricultural sector to devise a strategy for the research farmland.
