The federal government has announced plans to gradually cease operations at its research facility located in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, over the course of the next year.

The seed increase unit is set to relocate to the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre in 2028. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada disclosed in a news release on Friday that the unit will function from both sites in 2027 to facilitate a smooth transition.

This unit is responsible for producing and supplying breeder seeds to certified growers for multiplication and subsequent sale as certified seeds.

This news follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding by the federal and provincial governments aimed at preserving the Indian Head and Scott research farms. These farms were initially slated for closure by the federal government, alongside five additional research facilities across the country.

The memorandum signifies that the province will assume control over the land as the federal government shuts down its operations.

In the release, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada reaffirmed its dedication to supporting the Canadian seed industry by fulfilling requests for breeder seeds and maintaining standards for pedigreed seeds.

The future of the Indian Head and Scott research farms remains uncertain without the seed increase unit.

“Our government is actively engaged in discussions with AAFC regarding the future of the remaining land at Indian Head and Scott as the federal government reduces its operations,” stated provincial Agriculture Minister David Marit.

He added that the provincial government is collaborating with the Saskatchewan agricultural sector to formulate a strategy for the research farmland.