The Benefits of High Tunnels for Year-Round Farming

Are you looking for ways to grow produce year-round?

Don’t have the space for large, concrete structures “required” for indoor growing?

Food is a cornerstone of our lives. It connects us to the world and strengthens our local communities. High tunnels, also known as hoop houses, offer a practical and sustainable solution to keep this connection thriving throughout the year.

These structures enhance the resilience and profitability of farms while also contributing to the stability of local food economies.

What Are High Tunnels?

High tunnels are unheated structures designed to extend the growing season for cold-tolerant and warm-season crops. They are typically made with steel bows, covered with polyethylene film, and built without concrete footings. Their design allows for the protection of crops from wind and rain, reducing stress, and minimizing the risk of fungal pathogens and pests.

Benefits of High Tunnels

Extended Growing Seasons: High tunnels significantly lengthen the growing seasons for various crops. They enable the year-round production of cold-tolerant vegetables and other plants. By using row-cover systems in conjunction with high tunnels, you can also extend the seasons for warm-season vegetables and plants.
Protection from Environmental Stressors: These structures shield crops from adverse weather conditions such as wind and rain. This protection helps reduce stress on plants and lowers the likelihood of pest and disease pressures.
Improved Farm Resilience: By offering a controlled environment, high tunnels make farms more resilient to fluctuating weather patterns and unpredictable conditions. This resilience translates into more reliable harvests and a steadier income stream.

Supporting Local Food Economies

High tunnels do more than just benefit your farm; they play a key part in localizing food economies. Currently, a significant portion of the produce consumed in the United States during winter comes from distant regions like the Imperial Valley of California. This reliance on far-flung food sources introduces risks and costs to the national food system. By using high tunnels to produce food locally, you can keep your food dollars within your community, supporting local livelihoods and reducing the environmental impact of transporting food over long distances.

High Tunnels - the Year-Round Game Changer

By investing in a high tunnel, you can extend your growing season, protect your crops, and contribute to the resilience of your farm and local community. These structures are not just about growing food; they’re about cultivating a more sustainable and connected world.

If you’re ready to enhance your farm’s production capabilities and support local food economies, contact our team to learn which structure is right for you!