It could be Canada’s first informal learning centre dedicated to modern agriculture.
At its meeting Thursday (Oct. 3), Perth County Council received a presentation for a proposed Huron Perth Agricultural Science Centre.
Steve Dolson, chair of the science centre’s board, said that the not-for-profit centre will change public perception, from an antiquated view.
The centre aims to “showcase the vital work that’s being done” in ag and agri-food business.
A report said Perth county offers an authentic and impactful experience. It is currently planned to be in located in North Perth, but still needs a dedicated location.
It could attract 70,000 visitors per year.
The centre would encompass a 34,000 square foot facility with additional land for outdoor experiences, with an expected cost of $38.8 million.
Dolson asked for $50,000 from Perth County for initial funding support.
Perth County Warden Rhonda Ehgoetz said waiting until budget time makes sense.
“With anything that comes to council, we prefer to go to budget, because then we have a better look at all our expenses,” she said.
Budget deliberations begin next month.
Ehgoetz said the centre will be an asset to the community.
“Farming is very important in our community, and we advocate at the county all the time about farmland and about how important it is.”
For more information, visit Huron Perth Ag Science Centre’s website.
