Two Ladies, a Grant, and a High Tunnel Greenhouse: A Tale of Success and Abundance for Our Farm

 

Two Ladies, a Grant, and a High Tunnel Greenhouse: A Tale of Success and Abundance for Our Farm


One of the foundational aspects of Our Farm has always been teaching community members to garden. By doing this, we teach others how to grow their own food and gain joy and satisfaction from the process. Over the past year, the area of raised beds at the farm has grown in number and size. More and more people who visit the farm show great interest in the conservation processes of pro-generative gardening used in the raised beds, and they recognize the bountiful outcomes possible from their efforts. 


Ms. Tammie and other volunteers for Our Farm are always looking for and researching ways to increase our positive impact on our community. One of these volunteers, our own Ms. Shirley, uses her expertise in searching for possible grant opportunities that might benefit the farm. One of these searches led her to a site that discussed the potential for community farmers to receive a grant to obtain a High Tunnel Greenhouse. After much discussion and review of the requirements, the decision was made to apply for the grant offered by the Environmental Quality Initiatives Program, EQUIP. This program is part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), which serves under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 


Tammie and Shirley worked closely with an NRCS representative to help identify the needs of the farm and to identify the requirements to comply with the application for the Tunnel Greenhouse grant from EQIP. Tammie completed her required information as the legal representative for Our Farm, and Shirley assisted with filling in the general information. Lo and behold! The grant was approved, and the process for Our Farm to receive a High Tunnel Greenhouse was underway! 


What exactly is a High Tunnel Greenhouse? Here are some details that you may find helpful to learn more about what they are and their benefits. 


What is a High Tunnel Greenhouse?

A high tunnel greenhouse, also known as a hoop house, is a type of unheated, plastic-covered structure used to extend the growing season for fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Typically constructed with metal or PVC frames and covered in polyethylene film, high tunnels protect crops from harsh weather conditions like wind, rain, and frost. Unlike traditional greenhouses, they rely on passive solar heating and natural ventilation, making them an affordable and energy-efficient option for small farms and gardeners. High tunnels improve plant growth by creating a more controlled microclimate, often leading to earlier harvests and higher yields.

What are the benefits of a High Tunnel Greenhouse?


  • Extended growing season – Protects crops from frost, allowing earlier planting and later harvesting.

  • Improved crop quality – Reduces exposure to wind, rain, and pests, leading to healthier, more uniform produce.

  • Increased yields – Creates a more stable growing environment, often boosting productivity.

  • Pest and disease control – Acts as a physical barrier, helping to reduce pest infestations and some diseases.

  • Water efficiency – Limits evaporation and allows for more precise irrigation control.

  • Low energy costs – Operates without the need for artificial heating or cooling.

  • Soil protection – Prevents erosion and nutrient leaching by shielding soil from heavy rains.

  • Versatile use – Suitable for a variety of crops, including vegetables, berries, flowers, and herbs.

  • Cost-effective – Generally cheaper to build and maintain than traditional greenhouses.

  • Supports organic practices – Enhances the ability to grow organically by reducing the need for chemical inputs.


This project will be an excellent addition to Our Farm. Not only will there be increased opportunity for people to learn more about pro-generative gardening within a High Tunnel Greenhouse, but as more produce is planted within the tunnel, there will be more organically grown produce available for our community. Tammy and Shirley, our “Two Ladies” who made the High Tunnel Greenhouse possible at Our Farm, are a testament through the generosity of their love, commitment, and time to benefit the community through the farm. 


It is always exciting to get involved and see the farm grow, change, and evolve. Being a part of making all of this happen is not only personally fulfilling, but it also gives back greatly to the community we all live in, and teaches us the importance of loving all of our community members through support, caring, and working side by side for the better.


Want to volunteer?

If you would like to be a part of the raising of the Tunnel, work will begin at 0700 sharp at Our Farm. Here are the details for volunteering: 


**Please click the link below and go online to fill out a liability waiver.


And let us know which days you will be helping during lunchtime.

We need a total head count by Tuesday night of the number of volunteers we expect each day for lunch.

If you are heading this project up, please get this to each person coming.

Aug 1 lunch

Aug 2 lunch

Aug 3 lunch


Please wear sunscreen and cool work clothes.


Bring gloves and tools.


Drills and bits for drilling metal bars, if you have them. Make sure to mark your tools so you know which ones go back home with you.


Can’t wait to see you Apfu@ “Our Farm”

454 Hunter St Ext. Abbeville SC 29620


Due to the heat, we will start at 7:00 am sharp. (Please try to be on time so instructions can be given out at the same time)


Quitting time will be up to each individual. We do not want anyone overheating. We plan to have an ice chest with cold water and rags. But if you have your own, please bring it. And please stop thoroughly and stay hydrated!


We will have water, snacks, and lunch.


We have been asked about children coming. They will not be allowed in the work zone, so if you are working, it’s probably best they do not come unless another adult is coming to watch them. We will all be busy.


Website link

Become a Volunteer / Ways to Serve / How to Help | Our Farm: A Place for Us Ministries


Volunteer Application (so we can have their info) form only

https://forms.gle/tsbuiboak7NYqvGaA


OUR FARM release and media (all 1 doc.) electronically signing form only.

https://forms.gle/22ioJRVs4jN8wAaG7

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