I was invited to experience a hands-on afternoon working with wool on the busy farm treasured and stewarded by Leah and Guy Bouchard. After crossing the landmark, century-old timber truss bridge east of Gardenton, I found Green Pastures Farm on the scenic bank of the Roseau River.
This is the first year the Bouchards are inviting people to visit their farm to learn traditional, centuries-old techniques transforming wool into useful items such as a small quilt or felted slippers. We were invited into Leah's cozy studio and given a basket of wool, raised on their farm. Seated in a small intimate circle Leah showed us how to pick the wool to remove veggie matter and get it ready for some hand carding. We then took a walk to the sheep pasture where we learned about the regenerative management techniques they use on their land, and then met the four woolly stars from their large flock of sheep - Gloria, Lily, Janna and Judith, whose wool is used for fibre projects.
Returning to Leah's studio, we were guided in making our own small wool quilt, to take home and treasure. Our small group of six was then treated to a tasty farm meal, with ingredients raised right on the farm. The whole Farm, Fibre, Food & Friends experience lasted about four-and-a-half hours, from 1:30 to 6. There are four Saturday dates in November/December, and Leah says there are still a few spaces available. Registration is online at farmgreenpastures.com.
Several days ago, Travel Manitoba included Green Pastures Farm and their Farm, Fibre, Food and Friends in the top 10 things to do in Manitoba.
In my experience, I highly recommend this event as well. For more information about the experience, check out Green Pastures Farm website: www.farmgreenpastures.com
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