US (IN): Explore benefits of high tunnels during field days
Purdue Extension and Indiana University are collaborating to offer three field days featuring high tunnels, geared towards Hoosier farmers who own or manage specialty crop operations and are interested in using high tunnels. The events will be hosted July 18 at the Meigs Horticulture Research Farm in Lafayette; Aug. 10 at the Southwest Purdue Agricultural Center in Vincennes; Aug. 15 at the Pinney Purdue Agricultural Center in Wanatah; and Sept. 27 at the Hamilton County Extension Office and Full Hand Farm in Noblesville.
High tunnels at Full Hand Farm in Noblesville, Ind., will be among the highlights of a field day tour hosted by Purdue Extension and Indiana University. (Indiana University photo/Analena Bruce)
High tunnels are similar to greenhouses except they are heated solely by passive solar energy and cooled solely by opening sidewalls or roof vents. The low-cost structures protect plants from adverse weather and low temperatures, making it possible for farmers to increase the quality and yield of their crops. Farmers using high tunnels are able to extend the growing season earlier in the spring and later in the fall. As a result, they can produce more fresh food while increasing their economic stability.
A collaborative research team from Indiana University and Purdue University evaluated the farm-level impacts of high tunnel use throughout Indiana. The study was designed to gather more insights on successful high tunnel management. The team will present their research findings during the field day events. Also, representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will explain the opportunities available to Hoosier farmers through the High Tunnel System Initiative.
The High Tunnel System Initiative offers a cost-share incentive for Hoosier farmers to obtain a high tunnel for their farm. The program is offered through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) managed by the NCRS to improve plant and soil quality, reduce nutrient and pesticide runoff, and increase the availability of fresh vegetables and fruits for local food markets.
Each event will offer educational programming and opportunities for networking and discussion of issues related to growing vegetables and other specialty crops in high tunnels. The programs, which include general guidelines for new high tunnel users, focus on site and structure selection; considerations for irrigation and drainage; tomato, cucurbit and winter greens production; and common management challenges.
The series responds to popular interest and requests from growers for research-based information, and the opportunity to learn from more experienced farmers.
Click here for more information on the field days.