US (WA): WSU greenhouse space gets $5 million boost
The Washington Grain Commission has donated $5 million to support Washington State University as it develops more greenhouse space.
According to WSU, the gift will allow the university to build a new facility to complement an existing 34,000 square-foot plant growth facility on the Pullman,Wash., campus, providing WSU and USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists with space and new technology, including controlled-environment growth rooms, greenhouse space and labs.
Grain commission chairman Steve Claassen said in a press release that WSU researchers said the biggest limiting factor for their research was a lack of greenhouse space.
The first phase is projected to construct 9,500 square feet of greenhouse space on two levels and 10,500 square feet of indoor space for research and equipment. The first phase will be completed in 2015.
According to WSU, the second phase, now at the predesign stage, ultimately needs approval from the state Legislature.. It includes a two-story building with about 10,000 square feet of actual greenhouse space on an upper level. The phase is projected to include 16 air-conditioned greenhouse zones, and head house and circulation spaces.
The third phase involves construction of greenhouses to replace many older greenhouses along Grimes Way. Planning has begun.
Source: www.capitalpress.com