2006: The Seeds of Innovation
The ClearWater Futures Foundation began in 2006 as the Ontario Water Centre, an educational not-for-profit inspired by the vision of the Ladies of the Lake (LOL) Conservation Association. Best known for its “cheeky but not cheesy” calendars, was a hub for innovation to protect and restore Lake Simcoe in Ontario.
2010 – 2016: Planting the Seeds of ClearWater Farm
In 2012, the Ontario Water Centre achieved charitable status, guided by a multidisciplinary steering committee with a vision for carrying forward the idea of a “hub of innovation”. In 2014, the Town of Georgina leased the historic 180-year-old Reed Farm to the organization, setting the stage for its transformation into ClearWater Farm—a place where kids can grow, learn, and connect with land and water.
The journey began with permaculture gardens and a Master Plan to unite past and future, arts and science. In October 2016, progress faced a heartbreaking setback when the farm’s 112-year-old barn was lost to fire.
2017 – 2019: Rebuilding and Growing Together
Determined to overcome the tragedy of 2016, we forged ahead with renewed energy. Fundraising gained momentum, enabling the launch of transformative programs: weeklong summer camps for kids, a food basket initiative, and the construction of four greenhouses. Young participants built rain gardens around the historic Chippewa and Pioneers Trading Tree, and contributed to planning a fully accessible, all-season event barn—a space envisioned for education, performances, community events, kids’ cooking classes, and more.
In 2018, timber framers from across North America came together for a barn-raising ceremony, while a Toronto gala boosted awareness and brought total fundraising to $7 million. By the year’s end, ClearWater Farm had created 15 jobs and was contributing over $750,000 annually to the local economy.
Educational programming expanded to include parent-and-tot resources, family weekend activities, and video content that brought the ClearWater experience to thousands of kids. The farm’s impact was celebrated as one of the Lieutenant Governor’s “100 [Best] Stories of Sustainability.”
2020 – 2021: Resilience and Innovation Amidst the Pandemic
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, construction on ClearWater Farm’s new barn slowed, but innovation flourished both on and off the farm. The Basket Program surged in popularity, offering a safe way for families to access fresh, local food. Over 1,000 baskets of farm-fresh produce were donated to families in need.
Children’s programming transitioned online with the launch of an interactive virtual farm designed to inspire children worldwide to put down their devices—or take them outside—and rediscover nature.
Supported by the Shaw Rocket Fund and developed in collaboration with Shaftesbury Kids, a TV series, the ClearWater Kids Challenge introduced “Potato the Chicken,” a lovable mascot inspiring young minds to take on hands-on nature challenges at home.
2022: Reopening, Unveiling and Digital Expansion
As pandemic restrictions eased, ClearWater Farm came alive with Summer Saturdays, inviting the community to explore the farm, support local vendors, and participate in activities like yoga and art experiences. By summer’s end, the eagerly anticipated ClearWater Barn, now supported by Longo’s, was nearing completion.
At the Raise the Roof Gala, donors enjoyed the new space as preparations began for community programming and event rentals. Under the glow of the Harvest Moon, thanks to support from the Government of Canada, the province of Ontario, friends and partners, the final funds were raised to add finishing touches to this transformative space.
ClearWater Barn was ready to hosts educational events, community programming, weddings and special events. Meanwhile, Potato the Chicken took on a starring role, appearing for the first time in animated form across online properties and around the world
2023 – 2025: Spreading Hope Through Future Chicken
Amid growing concerns about the effects of global warming and climate change, in collaboration with Wind Sun Sky Entertainment, the chicken’s journey that began at ClearWater Farm has expanded globally. Now known as Future Chicken, she travels to the year 2050 and returns with stories of hope and practical solutions to combat climate change.
With her team of Planet Protectors she brings inspiring messages to children worldwide through television and YouTube, empowering the next generation to believe in and act for a brighter, sustainable future.
