Hoop House Pilot Study Benefits Local Small Farms

PALM DESERT -Riverside county is participating in a 3-year U.S. Department of Agriculture pilot project to determine if high tunnels , also known as hoop houses , are effective in improving water efficiency , increasing production , and providing conservation benefits.

“We want to study the environmental benefits,” Natural Resources Conservation Services (NCRS) Conservationist , Sam Cobb said. “How it affects the water, the soil and pesticides. At the same time help small farms. This is a great program for farmers in the Coachella Valley.”

Hoop houses are structures that modify the growing climate. This modification allows for crops to grow where they otherwise may not. Hoop houses have proven useful to owners of small farms, limited-resource farmers , and organic producers in extending growing seasons and to provide steady incomes to farmers and farm workers.

Producers may apply for the pilot project through the NCRS offices in El Centro and Blythe. Successful applicants will receive approximately half the cost of one hoop house per farm. For more information on the hoop house program visit: www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov