AAFC is seeking input on future agricultural research priorities following a controversial restructuring of its research network that included plans to close research centres and farms across Canada.
After a controversial year that included plans to shut down federal agricultural research facilities, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is now asking Canadian farmers and industry stakeholders to help shape the future of its agricultural science agenda.
AAFC has launched Shaping the Future of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Science, a national initiative designed to gather perspectives from agricultural producers, industry, research institutions, governments, Indigenous partners and other stakeholders.
Earlier in 2026, AAFC announced significant changes to its national research network, including plans to close research and development centres and satellite research farms. The decisions generated concern over the future of public agricultural research in Canada, particularly the potential implications for regional research capacity and producer-focused science.
Now, AAFC is turning to the agricultural community for input on what its future research priorities should be.
The consultation gives farmers and farm organizations an opportunity to identify the scientific challenges, opportunities and emerging trends that they believe should influence AAFC's future research agenda.
AAFC says it wants to hear perspectives on emerging challenges, future scientific needs, regional priorities and opportunities. According to the department, the feedback will help determine how its scientific efforts can best respond to the needs of Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector and encourage greater collaboration across the agricultural science ecosystem.
For producers, the consultation offers an opportunity to make the case for the research they believe must remain a priority as Canada's federal agricultural science system changes.
AAFC says it has been conducting agricultural research in Canada for nearly 140 years and describes itself as Canada's largest agricultural science organization, with facilities and partnerships across the country.
Beginning in November 2026, AAFC will hold targeted engagement sessions with stakeholders and partners. An online survey is also available to allow producers, farm organizations and other stakeholders to provide feedback.
The consultation also coincides with discussions surrounding Canada's next agricultural policy framework. AAFC says the science engagement will complement those discussions by providing another opportunity for stakeholders to identify the science needed to address future challenges and opportunities.
Producers Have Until January 8 to Respond
Farmer and farm organization feedback will help AAFC identify scientific challenges, opportunities and emerging trends and determine how its future research can respond to the needs of the sector.
The online survey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete and will remain open until January 8, 2027.
Complete the AAFC science survey
After the controversy surrounding the restructuring of federal agricultural research in 2026, the consultation provides farmers with a direct opportunity to tell AAFC what agricultural science should look like in the years ahead.
For producers and farm organizations concerned about the direction of public agricultural research, the message is straightforward: this is an opportunity to make those concerns and research priorities known.
Photo Credit: Jakub Zerdzicki