New draft design plans for the Ontario Agri-Food Discovery Centre have been unveiled, offering the first real glimpse into a facility poised to transform how Ontarians connect with food, farming and innovation.
Set to rise in Listowel, Ont., the 34,000-square-foot facility will be a vibrant hub where industry leaders, researchers, students and the public can explore the future of agri-food through hands-on learning, cutting-edge research and immersive experiences.
Why it matters: The facility will be an opportunity for both farmers and the general public to learn about farming practices, technology and innovation.
Olivia Keung, associate director of sustainability at Toronto-based Moriyama Teshima Architects, told attendees of the annual meeting of the Ontario Agri-Food Discovery Centre that the firm will “draw on the values and the principles” they observed while touring nearby farms.
The architecture firm was one of several dozen to bid on the project. The company has worked on other significant Canadian buildings, including the Canadian War Museum and the Aga Khan Museum.
The firm was tasked with creating a multi-use space featuring elements such as a museum and demonstration facilities. The mass timber building will also feature a living roof.
“For us as architects, it is a naturally renewable material that sequesters carbon in its structure. Is also a made in Canada solution where the wood can be harvested and manufactured right here in Canada,” Keung said.
Current plans include a main discovery centre, an outdoor amphitheatre, an observation tower and a dining pavilion. The grounds will feature demonstration plots, gardens and a rain garden, designed to reflect the work of Ontario farmers. Due to biosecurity risks, the facility will not house animals on-site; however, they may be brought in for special events.
Noting that more than 170 acres of Class 1 soil are lost in Ontario every day, Keung said the centre will become an important part of educating the public about the value of Ontario farmland.
“We need people to understand why this is such a precious resource. It’s something that we really take for granted,” she said.
The Listowel area has been a hub of growth and development in recent years. The region is expected to see its population increase by more than 12,000 in the next decade. To support this growth, the area surrounding the centre has been slated for community facilities such as a school and other community-focused buildings.
“We wanted the discovery centre to lay down the DNA for what could be a civic centre in this new community,” Keung said.
The year-round, multi-use facility will be a place for both farmers and the community to learn about the latest innovations.
Steve Dolson, chair of the Agri-Food Discovery Centre, said the plans now set in motion further feasibility and fundraising initiatives.
The facility is currently expected to cost $38 million to construct. Donations have already been received from a number of industry stakeholders.
The not-for-profit has also applied for several federal and provincial government grants as part of its fundraising strategy.
“I can’t say enough about the local community support. The Municipality of North Perth has been behind us right from the inception in 2020 and we’re grateful for their support to help cover her administration and some of our development costs as well,” Dolson said.
He added that recent geopolitical challenges have thrust the agriculture industry to the forefront for many Canadians. He said the Agri-Food Discovery Centre will reflect Canada’s place in the global agri-food landscape.
The organization will continue its capital fundraising efforts over the next two years. Dolson said by that time the industry can expect to see a “shovel in the ground.” The organization is also looking to increase its membership.
To follow the project’s progress or to become a member, visit the centre’s website.
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