In Nappan, N.S., staff at an Agriculture Agri-Food Canada research farm received notification of reductions on Thursday, with limited information available about the facility’s future from the federal government.
The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture acknowledged the closure notice at the Cumberland County facility and is actively seeking clarity on the matter. Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the federation’s executive director, expressed concerns raised by members regarding the potential implications for the sector, emphasizing the farm’s vital role in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through significant research initiatives.
Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm stands as one of Canada’s original experimental farms. While Agriculture Agri-Food Canada spokesperson confirmed approximately 665 job cuts nationwide on Thursday, specific details about the number of reductions at the Nappan farm and any closure plans were not disclosed in the statement.
Larry Weatherby, a beef farmer from the Truro area and chair of the Agri-Commodity Management Association, lamented the decision to shutter the farm. He underscored the farm’s invaluable contributions to forage production tailored to the region’s climate, benefiting the cattle and sheep industries in the Maritimes. Meanwhile, Independent MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin highlighted the farm’s significance as a pillar of the local community and beef industry, criticizing the timing of the closure decision.
Jonathan McClelland, 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 workforce reductions would weaken Canada’s competitive edge in the agricultural and food manufacturing sectors, emphasizing the importance of investing in industry growth amidst global uncertainties.
In response to public concerns, a spokesperson for Liberal MP Alana Hirtle, representing Cumberland-Colchester, stated that their office has initiated contact with Agriculture Agri-Food Canada to gather detailed information about the decision. The Nappan facility had previously faced closure threats in 2005.
As discussions continue around the fate of the Nappan Research Farm, stakeholders are emphasizing the critical role of research and science in securing the local food supply and fostering industry growth.
[End of rewritten article]