A sustainable hydroponic growing system that produces food for 110 people per day, is on its way to the Gitmaxmak’ay Nisga’a Society (GNS) in Prince Rupert. With the award of $175, 000 from Northern Development Investment Trust (NDIT) the 40 foot modified shipping container will be planted at Rupert Lawn and Garden, which the Society owns.
“This hydroponics unit means Prince Rupert will finally have a local source for fresh vegetables and herbs. Furthermore, the hydroponics greenhouse will integrate perfectly with our portfolio of small businesses, create good quality jobs, and feed families,” Blair Mirau, CEO of GNS said.
“It’s a big piece for us. We’re a quadruple bottom line business but we’re about much more than financial profits. We are also hoping to create positive social, environmental and cultural change,” Mirau said.
Mirau first saw the hydroponic shipping containers more than a year ago on an episode of Dragon’s Den. He then had the opportunity to meet the owners of ‘The Growcers’, who’s brainchild the Canadian state-of-the-art grow system is, in Ottawa. He said he knew right away that this all in one, complete growing system would be a huge benefit in the Prince Rupert climate.
Produce from the hydroponic system will be focused on edible food products, such as different varieties of lettuce, spinach, bok choy, herbs and teas. Tomatoes will also be attempted. Mirau said, if the system can obtain maximum crop yield, 100 families of four will be able to be fed every week in the city.