Huron Perth Ag Science Centre

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The committee presented the results of the feasibility study to the Municipality of North Perth, which voted in favour of donating land for the proposed centre if the committee is successful in its capital funding campaign.

No specific plot of land was designated by the municipality for the proposed centre, but Lewis has a site in mind.

“There is some land on Binning Street West across from the Steve Kerr Memorial Complex and the North Perth Westfield Elementary School that I think would be a perfect location,” she said. That piece of land is close to two major highways – Highway 23 and Highway 86 – and is in an area already known for kids. It is also close to food and retail.

“What a great team building activity (the centre) would be for teams during a break in a hockey tournament,” she said.

Last fall, the Huron Perth Ag Science Centre put a call out for volunteers to join its board of directors. Lewis says that several people came forward, and the board has been put together. The board is made up of 14 individuals with various experience and skill sets, including one member who has experience operating a science centre. Other board members have experience in science, agriculture, development, hospitality, not-for-profits, business, administration and education.

“We have people with a ton of different backgrounds and experiences,” said Lewis. “I’m very thrilled with our board and all of the very qualified people that are on it.”

Now that a board of directors is in place, the group is working on obtaining its charity status while working behind the scenes in planning the capital fundraising campaign.

Lewis said there is much to be done, as the project (as of the 2020 feasibility study) has a price tag of $13.8 million for the proposed 20,000 square foot building. That price includes the building and its contents, including exhibits.

Although the price tag is high, Lewis is confident that the Huron Perth Ag Science Centre will open in the near future.

“I cannot believe the support we have received from everyone,” said Lewis. “North Perth council, Perth County council, Huron County council – everyone I have talked to in the community has been so supportive and they love the idea, love what it could bring to our community.

“It will not only be a tourist destination, but also something our community can be really proud of and highlights all of the great things that already exist within our community.”

Lewis also noted the Ag Science Centre will be yet another reason for young people and young families to stay in the area.

In addition to the words of support from various community members, Lewis said several have asked how they can help and get involved.

“It really is motivating for us when we hit speed bumps, but to know the community is really excited about it too gives us more motivation to keep moving forward,” she said.

Those interested in helping and supporting the Huron Perth Ag Science Centre are encouraged to visit huronperthagsciencecentre.com and click on the “How To Get Involved” tab.

“When the time comes, we will reach out to people and let them know how they can help,” said Lewis.

The Huron Perth Ag Science Centre also has a social media presence. It can be found on Facebook and Instagram –@HuronPerthAgScienceCentre.