The Pontiac is famous for its landscapes of rolling hills, lush farmland, and beautiful forests, all nestled beside the shimmering Ottawa River. But what truly attracts people to the region? Farming? Logging? Affordable, peaceful living?
The area aspires to a stronger, more resilient economy. But once again, the
uncertain future of Commonwealth Plywood in Rapides-des-Joachims greys the area’s economic forecast. The Pontiac must look to a new source of potential that could positively impact the lives of its people.
What better way to do this than by establishing an agro-environmental research centre that builds on the region’s strengths and reputation? A hub for research supporting agricultural prosperity, river studies, and environmental health. A centre dedicated to advancing sustainable land and water stewardship in the face of climate change.
In partnership with universities like McGill or Université du Québec, the Pontiac MRC should actively pursue this initiative. Investing in the Pontiac by building a modern research centre, focused on developing new strategies that will help the local community and indeed other diverse areas interested in farming innovation, would nullify some of the disappointments of previous entrepreneurial endeavours. Proposals like the marijuana research centre, which ultimately chose an alternative location for its investment.
The people of the Pontiac have made it clear they want to keep the region clean. They have opposed projects like the Chalk River nuclear waste dump and the proposed incinerator plant due to concerns about pollution and environmental risks. The Ottawa River is a life-giving source, and it is vulnerable to man-made destruction. An agro-environmental research centre could provide valuable insights into sustaining healthy ecosystems.
A research centre in the heart of the Pontiac would make it easy for students and experts to live here and pursue their important work, adding to the economic and cultural prosperity of the Pontiac.
The facility could provide residents with many other benefits, like much-needed guidance on healthy eating.
The Pontiac is often seen as a seasonal retreat for urban dwellers, but it could be much more. A research centre dedicated to land and water preservation, climate resilience, and agricultural innovation would revitalize the area. This is a future the Pontiac should seriously consider—one that builds on its strengths while ensuring long-term prosperity.
Published February 12, 2025.
