Growers looking to extend production season with high tunnels

At the recent Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day, Mich. St. Univ. outreach specialist Adam Montri showed attendees how to construct a movable high tunnel that could be used year-round without having to provide supplemental heat or light. Montri told AgriNews that the high tunnel is starting to become a mainstay on the farm as much a tractor. Helping to drive the interest in the use of high tunnels is the increasing consumer demand for locally grown produce.

Montri has been involved with the construction of 65 high tunnels during the last 4 years. The tunnels are particular appealing to growers because they can produce premium crops during the winter offering them a more stable income.

USDA has launched a new pilot project under the Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative for growers to establish high tunnels to increase the availability of locally-grown produce in a conservation-friendly way. The 3-year, 38-state study will verify if high tunnels are effective in reducing pesticide use, keeping vital nutrients in the soil, extending the growing season, increasing yields, and providing other benefits to growers. 

 

Pictured: USDA has launched a 3-year, 38-state study to determine the feasibility of using high tunnels to increase the availability of locally-grown produce.

Photo courtesy of USDA-National Resources Conservation Service