Four-Season Vegetable Production Utilizing High Tunnels, Floating Row Cover, and a Compost Heat Exchanger.

Final Report for FNC10-835

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 2010: $5,994.19
Projected End Date: 12/31/2013
Region: North Central
State: Illinois
Project Coordinator:
Phillip Swartz
beyondsustainable.farm
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Project Information

Summary:

After the failure of the hoophouse plastic, I ordered replacement greenhouse film but it was never installed.

Sometimes life gets in the way of the best laid plans. Though I had every intention of continuing with the project for reasons listed below it did not continue.

As an inexperienced vegetable farmer combating two dry years in a row without adequate irrigation my financial resources became severely strained.

I was forced to find additional part and full time work to supplement my income, thus leaving me with not enough time for the continuation of this project.

A health issue that has now been rectified also contributed to my discontinuation of the project.

Research

Research results and discussion:

Project was largely a failure. However, I intend to reapply for this same grant and attempt the project again with a few modifications.

The hoop house will be moved to a more protected location. Wind breaks will be erected. The endwalls will be reinforced.

Also, I would like to add an additional hoop house to facilitate a side by side comparison of unheated versus passive heating.

Participation Summary
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.