Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Wildwood Nature Escape Inc. and Chutes Coulonge, two key tourism organizations in the
Pontiac Regional County Municipality (MRC), are set to expand their offerings thanks to a
significant investment from the Government of Canada. The two organizations will receive
nearly $300,000 in non-repayable contributions from Canada Economic Development for
Quebec Regions (DEC), an initiative aimed at fostering economic growth and diversification in
the province.

Wildwood Nature Escape Inc. will receive $99,998 to develop a new type of tourist
accommodation in the region. The funding will support the purchase and development of land,
acquisition of domes, tents, cabins, and a sauna, as well as necessary equipment and
furnishings. Additionally, the project includes the construction of a welcome centre equipped
with sanitation facilities and solar panels, enhancing the sustainability and comfort of the site.
“We are thrilled to have the collaboration of all levels of government in addition to the support of
local organizations. The investments will allow us to improve our available facilities and make
Wildwood an attractive outdoor destination for those exploring the region,” said Joel Levy, Co-
Owner of Wildwood Nature Escape.

Chutes Coulonge, a renowned outdoor adventure site featuring waterfalls and tree-top activities,
will benefit from a $200,000 investment. This funding will contribute to infrastructure
improvements, the acquisition of new equipment for the aerial park, and the launch of a new
website with an integrated reservation system. The grant will also facilitate the enhancement of
the visitor centre, including the addition of a retail shop, construction of a new restroom facility,
and the creation of a dedicated camping and van parking area. Additionally, a new ice-related
activity will be introduced to diversify the park’s year-round offerings.

Sophie Chatel, Member of Parliament for Pontiac, made the announcement on behalf of
Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for DEC. She emphasized the
role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-profits in driving economic growth
and strengthening communities. “Our government is proud to support Wildwood Nature Escape
Inc. and Chutes Coulonge, two organizations that are expanding and diversifying our region’s
tourism sector. The economic benefits of these projects will undoubtedly contribute to the vitality
of Pontiac and the broader Outaouais region,” she stated.

Minister St-Onge echoed this sentiment, underscoring the government’s commitment to regional
tourism development, particularly in economically vulnerable areas of Quebec. “These financial
contributions from DEC will not only stimulate the local economy and create jobs but also
enhance the appeal of Outaouais as a tourism destination for visitors from Quebec and
beyond,” she said.​

Photo: One of two Pontiac tourism sites receiving federal investment, Wildwood Nature Escape
is enhancing its facilities, including unique outdoor accommodations, to attract more visitors to
the region. (TF) Photo: Joel Levy