Manitowoc County's Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center to open in July

MANITOWOC – After years of planning, fundraising and building, the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center will open its doors this summer.

According to a Wednesday press release, the grand opening is scheduled for July 28 and will feature guests from Manitowoc County and the State of Wisconsin.

The discovery center will be an interactive educational attraction that "will focus on the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture within a framework of sustainable and responsible farming practices."

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The $13 million project began in 2010 as the brainchild of a group of professionals in the agriculture industry. The project is in the building phase, with the 20,000-square-foot building being constructed on a 36-acre site near Newton, which can be easily seen from Interstate 43.

"Only 2 percent of Americans produce food for the other 98 percent of us," said Julie Maurer, Farm Wisconsin board president in the press release. "Wisconsin has a rich agricultural heritage. Visitors to the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center will connect with that heritage and learn about the fascinating future of agriculture ..."

The tourist attraction will feature interactive exhibits, farm tours and a birthing barn. According to the press release, the discovery center could attract an estimated 100,000 visitors per year, including school groups and bus tours.

"As a farmer, I am most pleased with Farm Wisconsin's focus on agriculture and conservation," Farm Wisconsin Board Vice President Nic Schoenberger said in the press release. "The land is our most important asset. The evolution of farm practices to minimize environmental impact is a great story."

The project is at 96 percent of its $13 million goal. To donate to the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, visit www.buildwaec.org, or contact Lauren Rose Hofland at lauren@farmwisconsin.org.