WesMonTy RC&D

Earlier this year, WesMonTy donated a high tunnel to a family in the Chestnut Ridge community, just outside of Philippi.

For all who don't know, a high tunnel is basically an unheated greenhouse. Well, it is heated, but it uses the energy of the sun, instead of fuels. The purpose of the high tunnel is to extend the growing season both in the spring and in the fall. With increased temperatures earlier, you can produce crops like tomatoes earlier in the season. With increases temperatures later, you can also produce crops like leafy greens later in the season.

This picture is of the high tunnel frame being assembled. It looks like an airplane hangar, and when it is finished, it will have a special UV treated plastic over the sides. Like this:

This creates more of an isolated environment in which to grow food. It can help eliminate pests and diseases so the crops are healthier than their open-air cousins. The sides roll up and down for temperature and airflow control.

In this particular high tunnel, they have planted tomatoes, green peppers, and green beans.

These plants have been in the high tunnel for a little over a month now. The peppers are ready to harvest now. Another row of green peppers were planted outside the high tunnel. There is a noticeable difference between the two, with the ones outside lagging by several weeks and not ready to pick yet.

This is an example of the typical pepper inside the high tunnel. As you can see, they are large and ready to pick. Yum!

This is an example of the typical pepper outside of the high tunnel. They are not as far along as the peppers inside, but they look like they will be delicious!

Most of the irrigation for the high tunnel is provided through a water catchment system attached to the owners home. This allows them to irrigate for free. A solar powered pump allows for the pumping needed. They also have the option of city water, so they are still able to water the plants even during the recent dry spell.

Here is a picture of the storage tank they use for the water:

A drip irrigation system is used to water the plants as well. Lines buried in the ground ensure that water goes where it is needed and it increases efficiency by reducing the amount of water that is lost to evaporation.

For fertilizing, a injector system is in place in which the water-solubol fertilizers are injected into the water lines and go directly to the plant roots.

This project has a great potential to extend the growing season in this area. The expansion of these high tunnels throughout the area will help to increase access to healthful foods for everyone.

This particular plot will also act as a demonstration area for extension agents and people of the community to come in and learn new gardening and food growing techniques.

Thanks for keeping in touch!