Lacombe Closure Puts Spotlight on Canada’s Agricultural Research Workforce

Lacombe Closure Puts Spotlight on Canada’s Agricultural Research Workforce

From Canada - Seed World by Canada - Seed World

April 9, 2026 · 8 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the implications of the Lacombe research station closure on Canada's agricultural research workforce.

From relocation decisions to talent retention, Lori Oatway of Western Crop Innovations outlines the human side of research system changes. News of the planned closure of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Lacombe research station earlier this year is prompting reflection across Canada’s agricultural sector, particularly around research capacity, collaboration and long-term expertise. In a new Seed World Podcast conversation, Lori Oatway, quality research scientist with Western Crop Innovations (WCI) in Lacombe, Alta., shares how the change is being felt at both a professional and community level. Oatway, who both lives and works in Lacombe, said the news was difficult given the longstanding relationships tied to the station. “These are people that we’ve worked with for 30 years, maybe even longer,” she says. “They’re friends, they’re colleagues… it’s a huge blow to our community.” She noted that Canada’s agricultural research system is highly interconnected. Research conducted at one location often supports programs across the country, making closures difficult to absorb. “We don’t just stand alone; our research goes throughout Canada,” she explains. “We don’t know how we’re…

People in this episode

Guest: Lori Oatway

Topics covered

  • agricultural research
  • workforce
  • Lacombe closure

Keywords

  • research capacity
  • collaboration
  • expertise

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Seed World Podcast

Places: Lacombe, Canada, Alta.

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