Moore Farm in Gatineau, owned by NCC, could soon get new tenants
Decades unused, estate farm could soon become centre of eco-tourism
Nature enthusiasts could soon have a century-old farm to visit in Gatineau after the 12-hectare property was left unused for several decades.
After calling for tenders from local groups to revamp Moore Farm for the last 20 years, the National Capital Commission is now finalizing a deal with a co-operative of farmers and nature lovers.
The group plans to turn the historic site on Alexandre-Taché Boulevard into an eco-tourism destination that would include an educational centre, an eco-boutique featuring locally-farmed products and a café with an outdoor patio for guests.
"We want them to share the beauty of this place again," said Claude Sirois, co-founder of the co-operative. "People want to come here and put their hands in the soil."
Sirois hopes Ottawa and Gatineau schools will come out with students to get their hands dirty, working on their own parcel of land.
"We'll let them select what they intend to grow individually and we'll encourage them to attend, take care and develop the habits, practice, and even convince their parents, friends and neighbours to do the same," he said, noting they can learn about anything from insects and plants to bird-watching and horticulture.
The co-operative plans to host year-round activities tailored for all age groups.
The estate farm was built in 1911. The stable and horse racing venue on its property are each considered heritage buildings.
Former owner Virginia Parker Moore donated her estate to the NCC in 1973 so it can be re-purposed and made accessible to the public.
After years of inactivity on Moore Farm, Jocelyn Blondin made it his goal as a city councillor to find a group that would revive the estate. He said he would be happy to see the old estate re-open and attract tourists.
Second time is a charm?
This is not the first proposal Sirois has been actively involved with.
In 2011, he said the Agrodor Co-operative won a bid from the NCC to transform Moore Farm into an educational centre but both parties ultimately reached an impasse during negotiations.
Supported this time by a solid team of partner organizations and experts, Sirois hopes this new project will finally see the light of day.
"We have to have the patience of the gardener. It takes time," he said. "You cannot pull the flowers to make [them] grow."
The NCC confirmed the lease agreement is nearly finalized but refused to comment at this point to ensure impartiality in the process.
If the deal goes through, Sirois said Moore Farm will launch in September.