Greenbelt has been growing organic microgreens and lettuce for a number of years at a 1 acre greenhouse located in Gormley, Ontario. Founder Ian Adamson and Vice President Michael Curry noted an increasing demand for their fresh organic produce and became interested to expand their production in an existing greenhouse nearby Hamilton.
Michael Curry and Ian Adamson of Greenbelt together with Member of Parliament Filomena Tassi.
Greenbelt was backed by $640,585 in funding from Growing Forward 2, to modernize the new 3.5 acre greenhouse facility with state-of-the-art technology. They used the funding to renovate the roof of the structure and placed the latest innovations in UV light transmitting cover material to increase the light penetration and health and quality of the plants. "I believe we're the only one in North America to have this and one of 6 of its kind in the world", said Ian Ritchie, spokesperson at Greenbelt Microgreens.
As well as this the grower modernized the facility with a new soil and fertilizing line specifically designed for microgreens, and a multiple variety seeding machine for microgreens. Also investments were made in a special lettuce seeding machine for the potted lettuce.
Local distribution of sustainable produce
Greenbelt Microgreens distributes its certified organic microgreens to 250 stores in and around the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area. Their products can be found in both small and independent grocery stores, as well as in the bigger stores. Currently the grower is growing up to 12 000 plants per week, and this number will increase after renovations are completed. They are fully recirculating their irrigation water; rainwater from the roof is collected to irrigate the crops and no nutrients are wasted or run off in the environment. As well as this the grower emphasizes organic fertilizers and growing practices.
"Our government is committed to making targeted investments in businesses who are creating growth and good jobs thanks to innovative new projects. Greenbelt Microgreens is meeting the growing local demand for organic food and supporting a healthy economy in the Hamilton area", said Filomena Tassi, Member of Parliament.
Ian Adamson commented: "This is a major boost for the local food economy, we commit to employing local people and as an organic farm we are committed to the environment. 80 % of the organic produce in Canada is imported and greenhouses are our solution. We are very pleased to have the federal governments Agri Innovation program help in funding these innovations."