Staff members at an Agriculture Agri-Food Canada research farm located in Nappan, Nova Scotia, were informed about impending cuts, with limited information provided by the federal government regarding the facility’s future. The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture acknowledged the closure notice at the Cumberland County facility and is actively seeking clarification on the matter.
Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, the executive director of the federation, expressed concerns raised by members regarding the potential implications for the agriculture sector. She highlighted the significant role played by the station in supporting the beef and forage industries in Atlantic Canada through valuable research initiatives.
Established in 1887, the Nappan Research Farm stands as one of Canada’s original experimental farms. While a spokesperson for Agriculture Agri-Food Canada confirmed a total of 665 job cuts nationwide on Thursday, details regarding the specific number of layoffs at the Nappan farm or any plans for closure were not disclosed.
Larry Weatherby, a beef farmer from the Truro area and chair of the Agri-Commodity Management Association, expressed disappointment over the decision to shut down the research farm. He emphasized the farm’s contributions to forage production specific to the region’s climate, benefiting the cattle and sheep industries in the Maritimes.
Independent MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, representing Cumberland North, revealed that employees from the research farm contacted her following the announcement of the closure. She described the farm as a cornerstone of the area and the beef industry, questioning the rationale behind the decision and emphasizing the importance of scientific research in supporting local food supply.
The timing of the closure decision raised concerns, particularly as Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald recently announced the return of Canadian beef to Chinese markets. Smith-McCrossin criticized the reduction in investment at a time when there should be a focus on enhancing the industry and meeting consumer demands for locally sourced products.
Jonathan McClelland, the executive director of the Cumberland Business Connector, estimated that approximately 10 to 15 individuals are employed at the Nappan farm. He warned that the nationwide job cuts would diminish Canada’s competitive edge in agriculture, food, and beverage manufacturing sectors, stressing the need for increased support from the federal government and provinces to bolster industry growth.
A spokesperson for Liberal MP Alana Hirtle, representing Cumberland-Colchester, stated that efforts are underway to gather comprehensive details about the closure decision from Agriculture Agri-Food Canada. The spokesperson echoed public concerns over the situation and highlighted the importance of understanding the decision-making process behind the closure.
In the past, the Nappan facility had faced the threat of closure in 2005, underscoring the challenges and uncertainties surrounding its operational status.