The federal government is looking for direction on the future direction of agricultural research.
Input will be gathered from farmers, industry organizations, research institutions, governments and other stakeholders. There will be an online component with a National Science Forum next year.
Federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald wants to identify where Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) research can make the biggest difference, and where collaborations can deliver greater impact.
AAFC is currently hosting a survey on its website to help identify scientific challenges, opportunities and emerging trends. The survey will remain open until Jan. 8, 2027.
Back in January this year, AAFC announced major cutbacks to federal research facilities and staffing. Seven research operations across the country are slated for closure or wind-down, including Indian Head and Scott in Saskatchewan and Lacombe in Alberta. About 665 positions will be eliminated nationwide with an annual estimated savings of $27 million per year.
The Saskatchewan and federal governments are in discussion about the future role of the research farms at Indian Head and Scott. Saskatchewan and various producer crop organizations hope to preserve research efforts at both locations.
