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By Alice McFarlane

New Agricultural Services offices open in Manitoba

Manitoba Government supports farmers with new agriculture offices in Virden and Shoal Lake

Sep 23, 2025 | 4:44 PM

The Manitoba Government has opened two new Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) offices.

It’s part of the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural communities.

The offices in Virden and Shoal Lake will provide farmers with the tools and support they need to succeed after the previous government closed these offices, according to Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn.

“By opening new MASC offices in Virden and Shoal Lake, we are making it easier for producers to access programs and services closer to home, where they are needed most,” he said.

The new offices will provide in-person support for crop insurance, lending and other key resources and will play a role in supporting the province’s agriculture sector through risk management, financing, and advisory services.

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Virden Mayor Tina Williams is pleased to see the ag office located in her community.

“The value of having a local office for our surrounding farm communities cannot be overstated,” Williams said.

The Virden and Shoal Lake offices are now open to serve 650 to 700 farmers and agri-businesses in the surrounding regions. Each new service centre is staffed by four full-time employees and a team of insurance adjusters.

MASC now has 12 service centres across the province providing access to agricultural insurance, lending and other agricultural programs and services.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com