Huron Perth Agricultural Science Centre Announces New Operating Name And Location
by Bob Montgomery
The Huron Perth Agricultural Science Centre has announced a new operating name and location.
Board Chair Steve Dolson says they are rebranding as the Ontario Agri-Food Discovery Centre, to reflect their expanded vision to become a premier destination for agricultural education and innovation across Ontario. He says the new name emphasizes the uniqueness of the facility and the significance of the experiences they aim to offer.
The Ontario Agri-Food Discovery Centre will serve as a permanent, year-round showcase of Ontario’s agriculture and food industries, celebrating the people, technology, and opportunities that define these vital sectors. The centre will feature immersive, multi-sensory activities and exhibits that illustrate the journey of food from farm to table. Modelled after the success of similar facilities in other areas, their mission is to provide an engaging space where the public can explore modern agriculture in a tangible, fun, and meaningful way.
Secondly, they are very happy to announce that the municipality of North Perth has reserved 10 acres of serviced land for the future site of the centre. This land is located on the west side of Listowel, near Binning Street and Road 165, in proximity to Perth Line 86 and will host a state-of-the-art facility that brings agriculture and food production to life for visitors of all ages.
Dolson says the original feasibility study in 2020 suggested a 20,000 square foot facility would cost just under 14-million dollars. The recommendation from a consultant study that was conducted last January suggested a facility that was closer to 38,000 square feet and that would cost close to 38-million dollars. The board decided they would like to see a plan for the larger facility, but they would also like to see it constructed in phases, so depending on the funding they're able to raise, they would likely start with the smaller facility and grow into the larger one.
More information about the project can be found on their website at huronperthagsciencecentre.ca.
