Canadian government invests in new greenhouse technology

Doef’s Greenhouses Ltd., a 6-acre family-owned vegetable grower, in Lancombe, Alberta, Canada, will receive $2.2 million in repayable funding to build a new 5 acre greenhouse. The Government of Canada investment seeks to introduce new technology in greenhouse construction that assists growers in staying competitive by maximizing energy efficiency and reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

The project includes installation of a Vertifan vertical air circulation system from the Netherlands. The system moves air from the top of the greenhouse and distributes it under the plants to maintain targeted temperature and humidity levels. The greenhouse will also be equipped with shade screens and diffused glass to provide improved climate control, energy savings and optimal growth.

Funding for this project comes from the Agri-Opportunities Program, which focuses on new innovative agri-products, processes or services that are currently not commercially produced or available in Canada and that are ready to be introduced into the marketplace. The new facility is expected to create 17 jobs and will generate $4 million in sales for greenhouse vegetables by its third year.