Market Farming

[Chrys Ostrander <chrys AT thefutureisorganic.net>]

USDA Provides Update on Seasonal High Tunnel Pilot
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan has announced that more than 2,400 seasonal high tunnels are being constructed by farmers in 43 states through a pilot project initiated by USDA in fiscal year 2010. USDA also posted a YouTube video of how NRCS-funded seasonal high tunnels are helping farmers extend the growing season, diversify production, conserve water, and reduce inputs. USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing financial assistance for seasonal high tunnels as part of a three-year trial to determine their effectiveness in conserving water, reducing pesticide use, maintaining vital soil nutrients, and increasing crop yields. The pilot is offered under the Know your Farmer, Know your Food initiative. In FY 2010, NRCS provided $13 million to landowners through its conservation programs to install high tunnels, and additional funding is available in FY 2011.
Related ATTRA publication: Season Extension Techniques for Market Gardeners



Excerpted from Weekly Harvest and ATTRAnews
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--
Chrys Ostrander, Director of Farming Programs
People for Environmental Action and Community Health
"Local Food for All"

Manager,
p.e.a.c.h. Community Farm at Pine Meadow
10425 S. Andrus Rd.
Cheney, Wa 99004
509-448-3066
farms AT peachlocal.com
www.peachlocal.com