Joint Statement on Nappan Research Farm Herd Dispersal
The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) and Maritime Beef Council (MBC) welcome Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) recent decision to breed the cow herd at the Nappan Research Farm prior to its sale this fall, following concerns raised by both organizations. Two additional research herds at AAFC locations slated for closure, in Edmonton and Lacombe, Alberta, will also be sold this fall.
While the dispersal of these three herds represents the loss of valuable research infrastructure, selling them as bred cows creates an opportunity for Canadian cow-calf producers to expand their herds and benefit from these genetics at a time when market conditions are encouraging herd growth.
At the same time, it is important to recognize that AAFC’s January 22 workforce adjustment announcement resulted in the loss of significant scientific expertise, research programs and facilities that had strong support from Canada’s beef cattle producers. These investments played an important role in advancing the competitiveness, productivity and sustainability of Canada’s forage, cattle and beef sectors.
The BCRC remains committed to working with government and industry partners to help ensure Canada’s beef industry continues to benefit from the research capacity, innovation and scientific expertise needed to address current and emerging challenges.
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For further information, contact:
Laura Monchuk
Communications Specialist
Beef Cattle Research Council
monchukl@beefresearch.ca
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