Staff at a research farm operated by Agriculture Agri-Food Canada in Nappan, N.S., were informed of impending job cuts on Thursday, 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 farm in Cumberland County and is currently seeking clarity on the matter.
Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the executive director of the federation, expressed concerns raised by members about the potential impact on the agricultural sector. She emphasized the farm’s crucial role in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through its research efforts.
Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm is among the original five experimental farms in Canada. While Agriculture Agri-Food Canada confirmed the elimination of approximately 665 positions nationwide, specific details about the number of cuts at the Nappan farm or the possibility of closure were not disclosed.
Larry Weatherby, a beef farmer from the Truro area and chair of the Agri-Commodity Management Association, lamented the decision to shut down the farm. He highlighted the farm’s significant contributions to forage production tailored to the local climate, benefiting the cattle and sheep industries in the Maritimes.
Independent MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin criticized the timing of the closure announcement, especially following the recent news of Canadian beef re-entering Chinese markets. She emphasized the importance of investing in local food supply security and integrating research and science into industry development.
Jonathan McClelland, the executive director of the Cumberland Business Connector, estimated that around 10 to 15 individuals are employed at the Nappan farm. He warned that the nationwide cuts could diminish Canada’s competitive edge in agriculture, food, and beverage manufacturing sectors, stressing the need for increased investment and industry growth.
Alana Hirtle, the Liberal MP for Cumberland-Colchester, expressed her office’s concern over the situation and stated efforts to gather comprehensive information regarding the decision. This development at the Nappan facility echoes a previous threat of closure in 2005.
The community and stakeholders await further updates on the fate of the Nappan Research Farm as discussions continue on the potential repercussions of the announced cuts on Canada’s agricultural landscape.
