Durham College’s (DC) Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture will welcome one and all to the Ajax Urban Farm for its first Open House on Thursday, July 25.

The farm officially opened last October, and a lot of hard work has gone into getting it ready for the community. The gardens are green and lush, pathways are in place, and the hoop houses and hydroponic growing space are fully operational.

“It looks fantastic. It’s really something to behold,” said Lasha Laskowsky-Reed, Events and Projects Coordinator, Barrett Centre.

Farm staff will be on hand to greet visitors and there will be a number of activities to enjoy. Durham Farm Connections will have educational booths, including information about farming in Ontario and will offer an opportunity for guests to learn how to milk using an artificial goat. A kitchen demo will teach attendees how to make their own salad dressing using common ingredients and fresh herbs.

Tours will be available every half hour to showcase the work that has gone into the farm and the positive impact of urban agriculture, and there will be freshly harvested vegetables for sale.

There are a number of ways for community members to get involved at the farm throughout the summer. During drop-in hours on Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m., they can work in the gardens. Art activities are also offered, and there are library resources available for children and adults.

The farm is located at 1355 Harwood Ave. N in Ajax, next to Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, and the Open House will run from 4 to 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend, pick up some fresh produce and learn about the importance of urban agriculture.