Government of Canada to Implement a Transition Year Before Full Seed Increase Unit Transfer to Saskatoon Research and Development Centre
SASKATOON, SK, Oct. 2, 2026 /CNW/ — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) confirms that for the 2027 growing season, the Seed Increase Unit (SIU) will operate out of both the Indian Head Research Farm and Saskatoon Research and Development Centre. This will support an orderly transition of the program to Saskatoon in 2028.
Full field SIU operational capacity for all crops, including wheat and forages, will be maintained at Indian Head for 2027. Seed processing and storage will also remain centered at Indian Head for this transition year.
In addition, for the 2027 growing season, the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre will host field operations for all SIU crops (including oat, barley, triticale, fall rye and peas) except wheat and forages. Seed processing will occur at the Saskatoon location, with storage maintained at Indian Head.
AAFC remains committed to supporting the Canadian seed sector, fulfilling breeder seed requests, and upholding pedigreed seed standards.
AAFC continues to invest in science and strengthen collaborations with industry, governments, academia, and other key stakeholders in Canada and internationally, including through the Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Saskatchewan to explore potential approaches that support continuity of agriculture activities at AAFC’s Indian Head location.
AAFC’s efforts advance shared science priorities through activities at its centres and through regional and national initiatives to support the agriculture and agri-food sector.
Quote
“The Government of Canada is continually looking for ways to better collaborate and enhance the country’s research and innovation activities. AAFC understands the economic value of the Canadian seed sector and remains committed to ensuring the Seed Increase Unit meets the high standards of pedigree seed production,”
– The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Quick Facts
- The SIU is being transitioned to Saskatoon following the closure of the Indian Head Research Farm as part of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review.
- AAFC will fully transition its SIU to Saskatoon in 2028.
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SOURCE Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
