Les Fermes AquaVerti
It was in 2016 that the seed of their idea was planted! Stephen Moss and George Aczam want to prove that vertical farming is viable. This is where Les Fermes AquaVerti quickly took root: the first vertical hydroponic farms in Quebec were born!
The concept? Practice agriculture in a controlled environment, growing their products in water, outright. Since it's not grown directly in the ground, the innovative duo stacks their waterbeds vertically (one on top of the other), in order to use cubic space efficiently instead of in square feet.
The goal of transforming agriculture into a sustainable, responsible and local industry is now possible. George and Stephen are well supported: their team is made up of young urban farmers passionate about food security around the world.
Today, products from AquaVerti farms are everywhere on the shelves of major grocery stores in Quebec, and that is (very) good news!
No GHG, no problem!
In addition to being the first vertical farms in Quebec, Les Fermes AquaVerti became, in 2020, the farms emitting the least greenhouse gases in North America.
The team uses 94% less water than traditional farms, no fungicides, herbicides or pesticides, and their packaging is made from recycled water bottles. Their remarkable achievements have contributed to significant advances in the world of sustainable agriculture.
No less than 235 pounds of compost and an impressive 144,000,000 liters of water have been saved since the opening of AquaVerti farms. A commitment to environmental responsibility is at the heart of the company.
Meet them with this Signature tour
Montreal: the capital of urban agriculture
Description
From vertical farms to mushroom production in greenhouses, including the largest group of urban producers in Quebec: this Signature Tour will introduce you to the many faces and innovations of urban agriculture in Montreal!
Your morning will begin at AquaVerti Farms where you will have the privilege of visiting the first vertical hydroponic farm in Montreal. On site, you will learn more about the history of this innovative company, their infrastructure and production methods which allow them to grow fresh vegetables all year round.
A few blocks away is the Centrale Agricole, the largest urban agriculture cooperative in Quebec… and in the world! During your visit, you will explore the hidden gems behind the walls of this industrial building by visiting the production premises of certain members, as well as the shared facilities of the Centrale. Fish farming, coffee roasting, urban cider makers and more: you will be impressed by the hidden gems of this unpretentious building.
Finally, your tour will end in the early afternoon at Les 400 Pieds de Champignon, an urban mushroom farm located in Côte-des-Neiges. At the end of your guided tour, you will understand the many steps required to produce high-quality greenhouse mushrooms, such as oyster mushroom, enoki, lion's mane, and more!
Reserve your place now to discover the underside of urban agriculture in Montreal!
Your ticket includes