The FCEF was formed as a non-profit organization in 1988 with the support of Agriculture and Agri-Food (AAFC)* and a few of the department’s retirees. They set out a plan to recruit volunteers and members in the belief that such a volunteer organization, concerned about retention of the public areas of the Farm for heritage reasons and public enjoyment, could make a major contribution to the Farm’s future. This plan was essential to ensure continued public access to and enjoyment of the Ornamental Gardens and Arboretum.

The Friends’ mission is to maintain and enhance the Ornamental Gardens and Arboretum as directed by AAFC’s Arboretum Staff and Ornamental Gardens Staff.

The Friends also became versatile in creating several annual fundraising events to engage the public in many different ways on the Farm. With these funds the Friends are able to play an active role on various Farm projects of heritage value.

AAFC provides office space for the Friends in Building 72, adjacent to the Arboretum. We share this building with AAFC’s Arboretum and Ornamental Gardens Staff.

*Then known as Agriculture Canada.

Highlights of the Friends' achievements

Building 72, Arboretum, Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa, Canada K1A 0C6
Tel: (613) 230-3276    Fax: (613) 230-1238    E-mail: info@friendsofthefarm.ca