Seasonal High Tunnels for Specialty Crop
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has established a pilot program that introduces the development of Seasonal High Tunnels or “Hoop Houses”. This 3 year pilot program is being administered in 38 states and Ohio is one of the chosen states. The reason for introducing High Tunnels is that evidence has suggested that the conservation benefits associated with these structures, through scientific research is limited. Potential natural resource benefits from using tunnel structures include:
(1) improved plant quality,
(2) improved soil quality, and
(3) improved water quality through methods such as reduced nutrient and pesticide transport. This structure may be eligible for financial assistance through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). If interested please contact District Conservationist, John Williams at 513-887-3720 for more details.