Missouri State University-West Plains’ agriculture department is joining forces with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to offer a workshop on high tunnels from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 21.
The workshop will take place in room 103 of the Lybyer Technology Center on the Missouri State-West Plains Campus. It is the first of a series of workshops planned for commercial production of fruits and vegetables.
Those attending will learn about high tunnels and what makes them so successful, organizers said. High tunnels are protected agriculture structures that extend the growing season for fruits and vegetables, they explained.
Topics that will be discussed include construction of different kinds and styles of tunnels, production in tunnels to maximize the growing season and productivity, seasonal growing at its best, and pros and cons of government funding.
In addition, NRCS Resource Conservationist Jamie Kurtz will explain the application process to obtain financial assistance from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program for high tunnels. Applications for the 2020 year are still being accepted, organizers said.
The cost of the workshop is $35. Those planning to attend are asked to preregister by calling or texting 417-293-0590.