Staff at a research farm operated by Agriculture Agri-Food Canada in Nappan, Nova Scotia, were recently informed of impending cuts, with limited information provided by the federal government regarding the facility’s future.
The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture acknowledged receiving a closure notice for the Cumberland County farm and expressed a commitment to gaining a clearer understanding of the situation. Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the executive director of the federation, highlighted concerns raised by members about the potential implications for the agricultural sector, emphasizing the farm’s significant role in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through valuable research efforts.
Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm stands as one of Canada’s original experimental farms. While Agriculture Agri-Food Canada confirmed the elimination of around 665 positions nationwide, specific details about the extent of cuts at the Nappan farm and any plans for closure remain undisclosed.
Larry Weatherby, a beef farmer in the Truro area and chair of the Agri-Commodity Management Association, expressed disappointment over the decision to shut down the farm, citing its crucial contributions to forage production tailored to the local climate, which have benefited the cattle and sheep sectors in the Maritimes.
Independent MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin voiced concerns about the timing of the closure announcement, particularly in light of recent positive developments such as the resumption of Canadian beef exports to China. She emphasized the importance of investing in local food supply security and stressed the essential role of research and science in achieving this goal.
Jonathan McClelland, the executive director of the Cumberland Business Connector, estimated that the Nappan farm currently employs approximately 10 to 15 individuals. He warned that the nationwide workforce reductions could diminish Canada’s competitive edge in the agriculture and food manufacturing industries, urging governments to prioritize industry growth and export diversification to maintain the country’s reputation as a trusted source of safe food products.
In response to public concerns, a spokesperson for Alana Hirtle, the Liberal MP for Cumberland-Colchester, stated that their office has reached out to Agriculture Agri-Food Canada to gather detailed information about the decision and its implications. Notably, the Nappan facility had previously faced closure threats in 2005.
The potential closure of the Nappan Research Farm has raised alarms among stakeholders, highlighting the need for continued support and investment in Canada’s agricultural research infrastructure to sustain industry competitiveness and ensure food security.
