High Tunnel Workshop a Success

The High Tunnel Production and Installation Workshop held last week was a huge success. 



Ozark Natural Foods, LLC

Fifteen beginning farmers attended Track 1 "Production of Crops in High Tunnels."  Wednesday evening was set in a classroom style with an overview presentation by Patrick Byers, MU Regional Horticulture Specialist, followed by a presentation by Sarah Becker, LU Program Educator, on Environmental Controls of a High Tunnel.  Frank Gieringer of Gieringer Orchard gave a wonderful slide show presentation of his high tunnel raspberry and tomoto production.  Last on the agenda for that evening was a panel of farmers all whom grow with high tunnels.



Urban Roots Farm

On Thursday evening, the second part of Track 1, participants toured 3 different farms each with high tunnel production.  The first farm was Ozark Natural Foods, LLC, the second tour was Urban Roots Farm right in the middle of Springfield and the last tour which ended way past dark was at Millsap Farm just north of Springfield.





Millsap Farm

Friday and Saturday brought Track 2 "Installation of a High Tunnel."  Ten participants assisted in the construction of a high tunnel on Sunshine Valley Farm which is just east of Springfield.  Beginning farmers were able to work side-by-side with Patrick Byers and Sarah Becker, whose experience of having constructed 5 high tunnels already, led many participants to learn quicker than if they attended other high tunnel installation venues.

Look for the PowerPoint presentations, pictures and more from this High Tunnel Production and Installation Workshop soon at the MBFP Online Learning Community.

Below are a number of pictures from the installation of the Sunshine Valley Farm high tunnel.  Unfortunately, due to the end walls being constructed of cedar walls and the hired construction contractors not able to finish both end walls before the end of the workshop on Saturday, participants were not able to add the plastic over the roof.