FCM challenges federal closure of research stations
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The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is launching a national advocacy strategy to challenge the federal government’s decision to shutter agricultural research stations across Western Canada, including a long-standing facility in Portage la Prairie.
Joe Masi, Portage la Prairie city councillor and Manitoba Director for the FCM board, informed Portage council that the national organization has instructed staff to research the economic and agricultural impacts of the closures. The move follows a coordinated effort by municipal leaders from Manitoba and Saskatchewan to bring the issue to the national stage.
“I’m pleased that the board of FCM is going to get involved,” Masi said. “We need to try to restore or reverse that decision of cuts because it’s a loss of jobs and an impact on our community.”
The Portage la Prairie site is a hub for grain, oilseed, and conventional crop research. It also serves as a primary centre for Manitoba’s fruit, vegetable, and potato sectors. Beyond the scientific loss, Masi highlighted the immediate blow to local employment, noting the cuts include a research economist, two technicians, and multiple seasonal and student positions.
The local facility is one of several targeted in a series of national cuts by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Critics argue that closing these localized stations removes vital, region-specific data that farmers rely on to adapt to changing climate conditions and pest pressures.
“Losing this valuable research is a major concern for the industry,” Masi said. “Portage is at the heart of Manitoba’s vegetable and potato production, and this research supports that.”
The FCM plans to use the gathered data to develop a formal lobbying strategy aimed at the federal government. Masi emphasized that the City of Portage la Prairie will be an active participant in the advocacy efforts, arguing that the federal government should be investing in food security and agricultural innovation rather than reducing its regional footprint.
The timeline for the FCM’s research report and lobbying efforts is expected to be finalized in the coming months.
» Portage Graphic Leader