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Pinedale built two Hard-Sided High Tunnels in 2010. One structure utilized a single poly cover and the second structure incorporated a double poly cover. Both structures are 16-ft x 32-ft and are used as an educational tool for the Pinedale After School Program. Funding for these structures was provided by a Learn & Serve Grant from Serve Wyoming.

Understanding the use and impact of High Tunnels in a community by Jennifer Anderson – UW Extension Educator Pinedale, WY – After School Program Coordinator.

What have you learned from growing things in the High Tunnel?

We have learned a lot about biological control of aphids and are learning more about fungal control on squash plants.

What changes have you made (or groups you represent) in your lifestyle(s) because of the HT – to rephrase that what 'impact' has the HT had on you or the groups you work with? 

This spring we will have an afterschool group that specifically works in the greenhouse. While the whole group will have an opportunity to work and learn in the HT, having a smaller group with more intensive education will benefit them. We “leased” plots to community members last year and we have all of them returning as well as others asking for a plot. We sold produce at the farmers market last year which allowed us to provided education and information.

What are some of the benefits you have identified of working in a HT?

Extended growing season! Planting in May vs June makes a huge difference for us.

What issues/challenges have you discovered with the HT?

Even with opening the doors it gets too hot in our HT and because of the location we have to have someone open and close nightly which hasn’t been convenient. We may look into using screen doors for mid summer or putting vents in the doors. We put some solar vents in the roof last fall which made a difference.

Would you recommend a High Tunnel (HT) to others?

Yes, I would love to have one at my house!

How has the design held up in Wyoming conditions (have you identified any issues)?

So far ours has held up great in the snow, wind and sun. We will be able to identify how the skin has held up for this third winter when we can get out there. Currently I have to snowshoe to it (early March 2012).

Are you producing even during the cold winter months?

No

Do you provide tours to others who may be interested in the structures?

Yes we did last summer to some daycare programs as well as during Local Fest. We are also making plans to include the high tunnel in a summer camp collaboration.

If you provide tours, how many people have taken a look at it?

30 in tours. We had 8 people rent plots and use the HT besides the afterschool program.

Can you tell me if the workshop has had an impact on the surrounding community – have others started building them? If so how many HT’s are in your community?

It has impacted the community by use of the HT through renters, afterschool youth and selling & donating produce. There are no other current HT that I know of in the community besides the one we built in La Barge. Others have inquired.