Cité Écologique started in Ham-Nord, Quebec, Canada in 1984. Now, one hundred members live there on a permanent basis. The community started as an alternative school based on “respect for nature.” In the beginning our goal was to create a new educational model in the countryside where parents, teachers, grandparents, children, and all members of our community could participate in providing an ideal learning environment for children. We wanted a place-based school close to nature. Since the beginning, our goal was also to create ecological businesses where parents could work and children could learn through integrated activities and apprenticeship programs. We have worked hard to accomplish and expand upon our initial intentions. Many of our students have become managers of the businesses we run, and have expanded these businesses’ territories across Canada and the US. Organic culture, manufacturing of clothing using earth-friendly fabrics, health care, crafts, and import-export are some of the businesses we built on our site. In addition to running ethical and successful businesses, we take care of our land by practicing organic farming and sustainable forestry. We grow our fruits and vegetables in our fields and 4 greenhouses and we sell the surplus after the community’s needs have been met. Over the years, we have planted thousands of trees all over the property, and we have practice selective logging when needed for construction or heating. Today, Cité Écologique is led by its second generation which pursues similar purposes and community practices as those adopted by their predecessors, such as: buying as a group, sharing meals each day, car-pooling, recycling, reusing… Ultimately, Cité Écologique is a great place to experience hands-on internship programs. Internship program at La Cité: -Organic Farming: This internship is for those seeking a comprehensive experience with organic farming (fruits and vegetables in greenhouses and fields). -Community Living: This is an excellent internship for those with a wide range of interests, or for those who want to learn more about community life in general. Students are welcomed! For more information, visit our website. Links: citeecologique.org La Cite Ecologique’s Facebook page
Cité Écologique is an ecovillage located in Ham-Nord in the region of Quebec where residents give priority to education, sustainable development and respect. We offer an alternative lifestyle where businesses, community and sustainability are intertwined. Visitors and interns are welcome to join our visitor’s program during summer time.
Usually we do not recruit people. However, we are opened to receiving new residents with whom we feel a good synergy. Joining an ecovillage is more a question of passion than reason. Still, certain steps need to be followed. Generally, the integration program for our community is spread out over three years. In order to allow both parties to get to know each other better.
A single person, couple, or small group makes most major decisions.
Members contribute a percentage of income to community funds.
Common House, Garden(s), Greenhouse(s), Vehicle Share, Library, Workshop, Outbuilding(s), Swimming pond or pool, Large Scale Kitchen, Tractor & Farm Equipment, Stage or Auditorium, Fire pit, Swingsets & play areas, Gym or sports area, Internet
Countryside locations with significant distance from urban centers.
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