Contributed photoHOULTON — Think it’s too early to plant your garden? Not so for those that have a “High Tunnel System.”
High tunnels are steel-framed, polyethylene covered structures for crops that extend the growing season. The structure creates a “micro-climate” but doesn’t require heat or other ventilation (unless desired). The USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) has been providing financial assistance to growers in Southern Aroostook to install these structures as part of their Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program.
“The High Tunnel Systems can improve crop quality and yields, as well as produce crops earlier for market,” according to NRCS District Conservationist Helena Swiatek. “We’ve had people come in excited about still getting crops of spinach and carrots well into the winter months.”
Preliminary studies in Maine have also shown reduced pest and disease pressure in high tunnels in comparison to field crops. This high tunnel initiative is supported by the USDA’s efforts to support small farm agriculture. There are no size requirements to receive benefits from the NRCS.
“Many people think they are too small to receive help from the government but that isn’t true,” Swiatek noted.
Those interested in learning about high tunnels, may stop by the local USDA Service Center in Houlton at 304 North St., or call (207) 532-9407, Ext. 3.
