Producing vegetables in the city so that everyone can access fresh food? Create a public space for inclusion and emancipation? Contribute to the protection of biodiversity? Here are some of the objectives of Jardins du bassin Louise, located in the Old Port of Quebec.
Following three decades of food market on this site, vegetables are now growing upon the concrete floor of the former Old Port Market. At Urbainculteurs, we have been working on the development of urban agriculture since 2009, and here we are fulfilling a dream dear to our team: set up an urban market gardening demonstration site, which contributes to social inclusion and food security in downtown Quebec City.
Beginning with a pilot project in 2020, the farm has grown gradually over 3 years, reaching 54 raised beds in 2022. By growing the varieties of vegetables that organizations need the most, the project makes sure to improve food security in the lower town.
But Jardins du bassin Louise are intended to be more than market gardening. The social impact and the educational scope are an integral part of the project. Constantly evolving, these components will bloom over time. Learn more below!
Vegetable production
Following bio-intensive production techniques, we grow dozens of varieties of vegetables and herbs directly in the city center, with optimal sunshine on an urban heat island. Being located on a concrete slab, our production grows in 50 feet long raised beds, greening the area at the same time and creating an oasis of biodiversity. The crops are primarily intended for food security organizations.
Social orientation
More than a local production, our gardens are intended to feed first and foremost those for whom it isn’t always easy to access fresh veggies. In addition, through volunteer work on the farm, we aim to promote greater social diversity, to forge links in our community and to provide training and professional integration opportunities for people facing obstacles to access the labour market. Come give us a hand!
Educational activities
Such an urban farm is a perfect place to experiment, continue to develop our farming techniques and pass on our knowledge. Through various activities and training, we welcome groups to inspire them, educate them and make them dream! Jardins du bassin Louise also occasionally host cultural, social and community activities. Check out our events calendar so you don’t miss a thing!
Research projects: An evolving place worth looking out
Interested in carrying out a research project on the farm site? Contact us! The Jardins du bassin Louise project is multidimensional and lends itself to both agronomic and social research. Let’s see the possibilities together!
Our farm is located on the site of the former Old Port Market, at 160 Quai Saint-André.
- Paid parking on site
- Bicycle path nearby
- Bus routes 1, 11, 25, 54 and 133 nearby
Please note that this is the location of our urban farm. It is not possible to join us there at all times.
FOR 2022, THE WEEKLY MARKET WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAYS FROM 10 A.M. TO 1 P.M.
Our administrative offices are located at
14 Soumande, #0-17, Quebec City, G1L 0A4
