US (NC): Season extension with high tunnels

As consumer interest in the local food movement rapidly expands, medium and large scale buyers are seeking to increase sales of local products. One strategy growers can explore to meet this need is season extension through the use of high tunnels.

High tunnels are low-tech, low-cost tools that allow growers to extend the growing season of vegetables and small fruit crops, potentially increasing market opportunities and farm profits. Session topics include microclimate characteristics, ideal planting dates for cool and warm season vegetable crops, labor and material costs, and best management practices for pests and fertility. Presenters will also discuss various high tunnel equipment vendors, noting the features important to include for extended season growing in the southern Appalachian mountain region.

The presentation will include regional marketing strategies and federal funding opportunities for high tunnel construction. The day will conclude with two high tunnel farm tours.

Geared toward producers selling into wholesale markets, as well as Extension Agents who are assisting growers with wholesale market expansion, this full-day, hands-on workshop will offer a variety of tools to assist growers in maximizing the efficient use and profitability of high tunnels.

Click here for more information and registration.