The federal and Saskatchewan governments are examining ways to keep agricultural activities operating at the Indian Head and Scott Research Farms while Ottawa moves ahead with plans to dispose of the properties.
Federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced Thursday that the two governments have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore possible interim arrangements for the research farms.
The agreement is intended to ensure the properties remain productive agricultural assets and continue to be properly managed during the federal government’s disposal process.
"This MOU will see the Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada work together to ensure agricultural activities continue at these sites. . ., " Marit said in a statement.
The Indian Head and Scott facilities were among seven Ag Canada research locations slated for closure as part of a broader federal government effort to cut costs. The other sites are the Nappan Research Farm in Nova Scotia, the Portage la Prairie Research Farm in Manitoba, and research and development centres in Guelph, ON; Quebec City, and Lacombe, AB.
MacDonald said the federal government wants the two Saskatchewan properties to continue supporting provincial agriculture even though they are no longer needed for federal programs.
