High Tunnel Build & Learn in Rochester, IN

Come help construct a USDA-funded EQIP high tunnel July 29th during this old-school barn raising style event! 

Led by Urban Soil Health and Nifty Hoops, participants will assemble the high tunnel skeleton and attach the plastic covering. This will be a hands-on instructional day building the full high tunnel (also known as a "hoop house").

This event is for all Indiana Conservation Partners, farmers, and future farmers - anyone interested in experiencing what it means to build a high tunnel. Refreshments and food will be provided to attendees throughout the day. 

Options are available to attend part of the day or the whole day. Registration deadline is July 25 so we can plan accordingly.     

The farmer hosts for this event are Lois and Russ Mann. You may know Lois from from Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative (CCSI), one of our Indiana Conservation Partners. Nifty Hoops, will lead the construction and share information as the process unfolds. This is a beneficial way to get hands on experience into what goes into building a high tunnel.  

Who Should Attend

All interested parties are invited to attend and learn, including beginning and prospective farmers, landowners, family, friends, and agricultural professionals. No prior experience with building or construction needed. 

What To Expect

Dress for the weather and a long day outside, rain or shine. No prior experience is necessary - and we'll have all the tools you need. 

We can tailor the work to your preference, but the work is physical can include lifting and moving heavy equipment, climbing ladders, standing, squatting, kneeling, hammering, and drilling.

Please bring:

• Closed-toe, sturdy shoes
• Comfortable clothing
• Sunscreen
• Refillable water bottles - stay hydrated! 
• Sturdy gloves, if you have them

See the Nifty Hoops website for more information and videos detailing what goes into building the high tunnels: https://www.niftyhoops.com/ins...

For more information, contact Terri Theisen, Urban Soil Health at ttheisen@urbansoilhealth.org