More than 100 workers to be impacted in closure of Alberta research centre by feds

Lacombe Research and Development Centre. (Google Maps)

Lacombe County says more than 100 workers will be impacted by the closure of a federal agricultural research station just south of the townsite.

“This long‑standing agricultural research station has been a cornerstone of innovation, scientific advancement, and community identity in Central Alberta for more than a century,” said the county in a statement dated Jan. 23.

“More than 100 employees and their families are affected, along with industry partners and research collaborators who rely on the Centre’s unique infrastructure, land base, and scientific expertise.”

The Lacombe Research and Development Centre has served as a hub for agricultural research for 119 years.

There are two other centres and four satellite research farms that will be part of a cost-savings closure, said Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).

“Like other federal departments, AAFC has identified savings over three years while remaining focused on its core mandate,” said an emailed statement to CTV News Edmonton.

The closing centres include ones in Guelph, Ont., and Quebec City. Satellite research farms will close in Nappan N.S., Portage la Prairie, Man., and the Saskatchewan towns of Scott and Indian Head..

“At this point, we can confirm that AAFC’s workforce will be reduced by approximately 665 positions and that notices to the 1,043 affected employees were issued on Jan. 22,” said AAFC, adding that there are no imminent site closures, and the wind-down of scientific operations would follow a decision process that could take up to a year.

Lacombe County Reeve John Ireland said one of the key concerns, among the economic impact to employees, is the loss of a current trial program along with decades of research.

“We are a proud agricultural region, and the work done at this station has shaped farming practices not just here but across the prairies,” said Ireland. “Closing it sends a troubling message about the value placed on rural communities and the producers who feed this country.”

The county is now calling on Ottawa to pause the decision, and to engage with local governments and agricultural stakeholders to assess the economic, scientific and community impacts before proceeding.

“You cannot easily replicate 119 years of research history, specialized land and long-term trials elsewhere,” said Ireland. “Once this site is lost, it’s gone forever.”

The AAFC said it will continue to operate 17 agricultural research centres across the country.